Admissions FAQ

Admissions FAQ

Al Akhawayn University Answers to the most frequent questions about applying to and studying at Al Akhawayn University. For direct support, contact the Admissions Office.

Q1. What programs does Al Akhawayn University offer?

Al Akhawayn University offers undergraduate degrees (BSc, BA), graduate degrees (MSc, MBA, Executive MBA), and an Honors Program for high-achieving undergraduates. Programs are delivered across three schools: the School of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities (SSAH), the School of Science and Engineering (SSE), and the School of Business Administration (SBA). All degree programs are taught in English; required coursework in French and/or Arabic is part of the curriculum.

Q2. What are the admission requirements?

Undergraduate admission requires a Baccalauréat diploma (or internationally recognized equivalent), official transcripts from the last three years of secondary school, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or the Al Akhawayn University English Placement), a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and the completed online application. Graduate requirements vary by program and typically include a recognized Bachelor's degree, transcripts, English proficiency, a CV, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Full details per program are on the Admissions page.

Q3. What language are courses taught in?

All degree programs at Al Akhawayn University are taught in English, following the American liberal arts model. The core curriculum also includes required coursework in French and/or Arabic. Students whose English proficiency does not meet the admission threshold can join the Intensive English Program (IEP) to reach the required level.

Q4. Is Al Akhawayn University accredited?

Yes. Al Akhawayn University is institutionally accredited by NECHE (New England Commission of Higher Education), the same accrediting body that accredits Harvard, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Yale. Al Akhawayn University has been NECHE-accredited since 2017 — the first non-US institution in Africa to earn this distinction — and was reaccredited in 2022 for a 10-year term through 2032. Programmatic accreditations include EFMD/EPAS (business), ABET (engineering), and CEA (English language programs, reaccredited 2024–2034). Al Akhawayn University is also officially recognized by the Moroccan Ministry of Higher Education (MESRS). (Sources: neche.org; aui.ma/about-aui)

Q5. Can I study abroad as a student at Al Akhawayn University?

Yes. Al Akhawayn University maintains exchange agreements with 400+ partner universities across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Undergraduate students are eligible to complete one or two semesters abroad as part of their degree. The International Office manages placement, credit transfer, and financial planning.

Q6. Where is Al Akhawayn University located?

Al Akhawayn University is located in Ifrane, in the Middle Atlas mountains of Morocco, approximately 60 km from Meknes and Fez and 1 650 metres above sea level. The residential campus spans 75 hectares and houses 7 academic buildings, 21 student residences, 4 dining halls, a library, sports facilities, and student activity spaces.

Q7. Can international students apply?

Yes. Al Akhawayn University welcomes international applicants and admits students from multiple countries every year, representing 39 nationalities on campus. International applicants follow the same general admission process, with additional requirements related to visa documentation, credential evaluation, and English proficiency testing for non-native English speakers. The International Admissions team assists applicants throughout the process.

Q8. Does Al Akhawayn University provide on-campus housing?

Yes. Al Akhawayn University operates a residential campus. Students are housed on campus, with options ranging from single and double rooms to shared suites. Dorms are equipped with modern amenities including kitchens, laundries, and heating systems. Dining halls, sports facilities, a library, and student activity spaces are all located on campus. (See the Student Housing page for room types and fees.)

Q9. What is the Honors Program?

The Honors Program is a selective track for undergraduates with outstanding academic records. Honors students follow advanced coursework, receive dedicated mentoring, participate in the Undergraduate Research Program (URP), benefit from smaller classes, and have priority access to study abroad at prestigious partner institutions. Admission to Honors is by application and requires a distinguished high-school record.

Q10. What documents are required for the application?

For undergraduate admission, applicants submit: the completed online application, official secondary-school transcripts (last three years), the Baccalauréat diploma or equivalent, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS for non-native speakers), a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, a copy of the national ID or passport, and the application fee receipt (500 MAD). Graduate applicants also submit a CV and statement of purpose. Program-specific requirements are listed on each program page.

Q11. What scholarships and financial aid are available?

Al Akhawayn University offers merit-based excellence scholarships (ranging from partial to full tuition coverage) that can be combined with need-based financial aid for families with lower income. 50 % of students benefit from at least one of these two types of support. Scholarship levels are determined by the Scholarship Attribution Committee based on the applicant's academic record and financial situation. (Source: Al Akhawayn University Finance Office)

Q12. Is there an entrance exam?

Yes. Applicants take the General Admission Test (GAT), which assesses analytical and reasoning skills. Candidates also participate in a structured admission interview, conducted by faculty members or admissions officers, to evaluate motivation, communication skills, and alignment with Al Akhawayn University's academic community.

Q13. What career support does Al Akhawayn University provide?

Al Akhawayn University alumni are active in Morocco and 20+ countries. 80 % of alumni report that their current position is directly relevant to their AUI education. The Employability & Entrepreneurship Office and Career Services provide career counseling, internship placement, corporate recruitment events, alumni networking, and support for aspiring founders through incubation and coaching. (Source: Al Akhawayn University Facts & Figures; Alumni Survey)