American University of Rome: What it's really like
What it’s like to study in the Eternal City
Want to study at a university that’s within walking distance of some of Rome’s most famous sights? AUR could be for you!
The American University of Rome (AUR) at a glance:
| Founded | 1969 |
| Locations | Rome, Italy |
| Undergraduate course length | Two-four years |
| Courses | The university has a liberal arts curriculum with subjects like fine arts, archaeology and classics, and communication and digital media. |
| Students | 600 |
| Great for | Students who want to study on a small campus in a scenic location. |
| Not for | Students looking to study applied sciences, which are not taught here. |
Yesenia, who’s an admissions counselor and former student of the American University of Rome, tells us what it’s like to study there.
What is the American University of Rome (AUR)?
The American University of Rome (AUR) is a private university which uses the American system of education, but is based in Rome, Italy. The student body is small, but very diverse: there are just over 600 students representing 60 nationalities here.
Some of the most popular majors taught here are business administration, international relations and global politics, and film.
Why apply to AUR?
AUR is the place for students looking for something different from the traditional university experience. As it’s such a small university, you’ll get more focused support from your professors than you might elsewhere, which is especially helpful if you’re struggling with an assignment.
If you’re adventurous and are looking to make the most of your university experience both inside and outside the classroom, AUR is the perfect place. It offers exciting field trip classes around the world, internship opportunities, and chances to explore Italy whilst you study.
Who isn’t the right fit for AUR?
AUR may not be the right fit for students who are interested in degrees in applied sciences. Our courses are based only around the social sciences and humanities.
Any application tips?
My top tip would be to check the deadlines for your application to AUR and make a note of these before starting your application process. You’ll be assigned an admissions counselor the moment you hit ‘apply’ on our website, so don’t be afraid to ask them if you have any questions throughout the process.
The application process is quite simple but it does involve an interview. So get prepared by doing some research on AUR and thinking about why you’d be excited to study here. Be yourself, and don’t forget to mention anything that you couldn’t fit into your written application.
What’s the location like?
AUR is in the Monteverde Vecchio neighbourhood on the Janiculum, Rome’s highest hill. It’s in an attractive residential area, tucked away from the busy city centre, but famous sights like the Colosseum are still walking distance from the campus should you wish to visit them.
The neighbourhood has everything you’ll need on a daily basis, like supermarkets, gyms, restaurants, and shops. Villa Pamphili—a historical landmark that’s been turned into a park—offers a great nearby space for students to exercise, have a picnic, or relax in their spare time.
What facilities does AUR have to offer?
The campus is very small and charming, with a close-knit community feel. The main campus entrance welcomes you with a beautiful garden in front and an impressive terrace with a view of the city.
There is a library just down the street, and for fine art students, there’s a studio a five-minute walk away. Although there isn’t a gym on campus, there’s one close by that’s partnered with the university so students can access it for free.
What is the accommodation like?
Students can choose to find their own apartment in Rome, or they can opt for AUR housing. AUR housing is perhaps unlike traditional university housing as it’s not on-campus, but based in the surrounding area. Some options are a five-minute walk away, whilst others take ten minutes to reach by bus.
AUR apartments are in regular residential buildings in Rome, so students may have Italian neighbours, but they will only live with their fellow AUR students. We recommend this option for your first semester of study, because you’ll meet new friends as soon as you arrive!
How does AUR meet the needs of students with different accessibility requirements?
AUR offers financial aid which gives students up to 35% off their tuition fees. We offer merit scholarships for students with a high GPA (grade point average), and financial need scholarships for those who may struggle to pay the full university tuition.
If you’re applying for financial aid, check the application deadline and apply for this at the same time as you apply to study with us.
Our student life department is also on hand to support you through our Res Grads scheme. Res Grads are a group of current students whose job it is to help you adapt to Rome. They offer budget friendly tours, trips, and activities like cooking lessons and language exchanges, to help you settle in and feel more at home studying at AUR.
On top of that, we have a psychologist available for you to talk to should you have any worries or mental health concerns. There’s also a doctor on-campus three times a week should you have any medical needs. Both services are strictly confidential.
Want to explore more European universities? Unifrog’s Shortlisting tool helps you put together a list of great potential courses.