FAQs
General & Mission
1. What is the American Institute of Universities (AIU)?
AIU is a global institution founded in 2025 by lifetime educators, dedicated to academic excellence and leadership development.
2. What is the mission of the AIU Foundation?
The Foundation’s mandate is to build “Champions for Christ” by providing academic and spiritual restoration to students who have faced significant life setbacks or trauma.
3. Who does the AIU Foundation serve?
We focus on individuals needing a second chance, including widows, military children, orphans, recovering addicts, cancer survivors, single parents, and those in correctional facilities or shelters.
4. What does it mean to be a "Champion for Christ"?
It means developing the character, academic skill, and spiritual resilience to lead with purpose and serve others, regardless of one’s past.
Admissions & Criteria
5. When does AIU open for global admissions?
AIU is scheduled to open for global admissions in August 2026.
6. What are the primary admission criteria?
While academic potential is assessed, we prioritize a student’s “readiness for restoration.” Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to growth and an alignment with our core values.
7. Do you accept students with a criminal record?
Yes. Through our partnership with correctional facilities and our “Second Chance” mandate, we believe in the redemptive power of education for the justice-involved.
8. Is there an age limit for applicants?
No. We welcome adult learners and non-traditional students who are seeking to pivot or rebuild their lives.
9. Can I apply if I don’t have a traditional high school diploma?
We offer pathways for those with non-traditional backgrounds, including GED holders and international equivalents.
10. What documents are required for the application?
Typically, we require previous academic transcripts, a personal statement (focused on your journey and goals), and a recommendation letter.
Fees & Financial Aid
11. What is the cost per credit hour?
Tuition is structured competitively to remain accessible. Specific rates for US and International applicants are finalized during the enrollment phase.
12. Does the AIU Foundation offer scholarships?
Yes. The Foundation provides specific “Second Chance” scholarships for those coming from hardship backgrounds (e.g., orphans, widows).
13. Are there application fees?
AIU strives to keep barriers to entry low; please check the current cycle’s portal as some application fees may be waived for Foundation-sponsored students.
14. Do you offer financial support for equipment?
Through our donor network, we work to ensure students in need have access to the necessary digital tools for their studies.
Accreditation & Academics
15. Is AIU accredited?
Yes audit courses are accredited by partnering universities and degree program by American Council of Education- through Florida School of Education. AIU follows a rigorous multi-stage quality assurance process. We operate in alignment with international standards and are pursuing recognized regional/national accreditation pathways common for new institutions.
16. What types of degrees do you offer?
We offer programs ranging from Dual Enrollment for high schoolers to Master’s levels, with a focus on Business
17. What is the "Notebook to Lifebook" curriculum?
It is a proprietary framework that teaches students to move from theoretical knowledge (Notebook) to practical, life-changing skills (Lifebook).
18. Can I transfer credits from another university?
Yes, AIU reviews previous credits from accredited institutions to help students complete their degrees faster.
Equipment & Learning Environment
19. Is the learning environment online or on-campus?
AIU offers a hybrid model, utilizing a robust virtual campus to reach students globally, including those in remote areas or facilities.
20. What equipment do I need to start?
Students generally need a reliable computer and high-speed internet. We provide a list of minimum technical specifications upon admission.
21. Does AIU provide technical support?
Yes, we offer 24/7 technical assistance for our virtual learning platforms.
22. Are there physical libraries available?
Students have access to an extensive Digital Library containing millions of records, e-books, and journals.
Partnerships & Organizations
23. How can shelters or correctional facilities partner with AIU?
Organizations can contact our Outreach Department to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for student referrals and group enrollment.
24. Can my organization sponsor a "Champion"?
Absolutely. We have “Sponsor-a-Student” programs where organizations can cover tuition and fees for specific individuals.
25. Does AIU offer training for organization staff?
Yes, we provide frameworks for digital literacy and leadership that can be integrated into the existing services of our partner organizations.
Student Support & Safety
26. How do you handle students with past trauma?
Our “Trauma-Informed” approach ensures that faculty and mentors are trained to provide a supportive, grace-based environment.
27. Is there spiritual mentorship available?
Yes. Every student is encouraged to engage with a mentor to help them grow as a “Christ Elected One” (CEO).
28. What happens if a student has a "setback" during their studies?
Unlike traditional institutions that may penalize struggle, our Foundation model includes “Academic Recovery” plans to keep students on track.
29. Are there career services after graduation?
Yes. We assist our “Champions” with resume building, interview prep, and connecting with a network of employers who value redemptive stories.
30. How do I get started?
Visit our website to join the interest list for the August 2026 launch or contact the AIU Foundation to learn more about our specific outreach programs.