The American University of Afghanistan prepares men and women for successful service in multiple professional fields through tolerant reflection, disciplined study and practical experience. Students are challenged to grow intellectually in self-confidence and good character as essential qualities for future public and private sector careers and civic leadership.

While celebrating Afghanistan’s cultural heritage, the University promotes harmony and leadership to help sustain a bright national future.  In its programs, the University responds to the needs of the nation and region.  Academic freedom and responsibility, individual rights, democracy, security, and integrity are core values.  Being private and not owned or controlled by any government, the institution is neither profit-making, partisan nor sectarian. Exemplary moral and ethical behavior is demanded of every member of the University community.

At global quality levels, the University provides American style higher education.  Features include partnerships with major universities abroad, an emphasis on student achievement, and predominant use of English as the language of instruction and administration. Institutional accreditations, reliance on information technology, community outreach, and institutional citizenship are pursued. 

Scholar and practitioner faculty members, able to integrate theory and realism in their work, lead academic programs at foundation, undergraduate, graduate, and adult continuing education instructional levels.  Excellent teaching, productive scholarship and research, and caring student services are University hallmarks.

The American University of Afghanistan provides equal opportunity for all.  Students are recruited without regard to their demographic profiles, financial capacities, beliefs, English language abilities, or personal histories.  To address any individual problem areas, students may participate in transitional learning opportunities before being admitted to regular academic programs.

Academic programs provide students with a bridge to the wider world.  General studies and higher education for the professions anchor the curriculum, while student abilities in critical thinking, communications, teamwork, and strong work ethic are heavily promoted.  Along with a commitment to responsible citizenship, students are encouraged to exercise sound independent judgment, appreciate alternative viewpoints, and find a positive, forward directed context for their lives.

Managed transparently and efficiently, a self-perpetuating Board of Trustees governs the American University of Afghanistan.  Being independent, the institution is financed through tuition and fees, worldwide support, and entrepreneurship.