Overview: American University of Iraq, Sulaimani
The American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS) was established in 2007 as a not-for-profit, private liberal arts university located in Sulaimani, in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Founded to foster academic excellence and critical inquiry, AUIS stands as one of the premier higher education institutions in Iraq. The university operates from a modern, purpose-built campus and serves a diverse student population of over 1,500 students. AUIS currently offers undergraduate and graduate programs delivered through five academic departments and an English language center, shaping its reputation as a comprehensive institution with a dynamic academic environment.
AUIS is recognized for its strong academic programs in engineering, business administration, information technology, social sciences, and international studies. Its interdisciplinary, student-centered educational model follows the American liberal arts tradition, emphasizing analytical skills, critical thinking, and ethical leadership. The university is committed to fostering research and innovation through initiatives like the Center for Development and Natural Resources and the IT and Engineering Labs. AUIS enjoys collaborative partnerships with international institutions, including joint research activities and faculty exchanges, and is a member of the Global Liberal Arts Alliance. Alumni have matriculated to graduate programs at institutions such as the University of Oxford and Columbia University, reinforcing AUIS’s growing reputation for academic excellence in the region.
Student life at AUIS is vibrant and diverse, featuring more than 30 student-run clubs and societies, annual cultural festivals, debates, and sporting events. The campus offers on-site housing, recreational facilities, and student support services such as academic advising, career counseling, and mental health resources. AUIS fosters a community rooted in inclusivity, cross-cultural understanding, and civic engagement, with a student body drawn from across Iraq and neighboring countries. Creative opportunities abound through arts programs, student-run media outlets, and community outreach initiatives, offering students a well-rounded university experience that complements their academic studies.
AUIS’s mission is to cultivate ethical, resilient leaders equipped to contribute to regional and global advancement. The university champions values of academic freedom, innovation, and sustainability, striving to empower graduates committed to equity, critical inquiry, and responsible citizenship in an interconnected world.
