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Discover honest American InterContinental University (AIU) reviews from 2024. We break down ratings, pros, cons, and student experiences to help you decide if this flexible online school fits your goals. Average score: 2.5/5 from 150+ verified reviews. Explore alternatives too.
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American InterContinental University (AIU) stands out as a fully online institution tailored for busy adults pursuing higher education. Established in 1970 and based in Schaumburg, Illinois, AIU holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring its associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees meet national standards. With a focus on accelerated learning, many programs wrap up in under two years – ideal for those juggling work and family.
In 2024, we've analyzed over 150 verified student reviews to give you a clear picture. AIU's overall rating hovers at 2.5 out of 5 stars, reflecting a mix of praise for flexibility and criticism over value for money. Whether you're eyeing business administration, IT, criminal justice, healthcare management, or education degrees, this guide dives deep into what real students say.
AIU emphasizes convenience with 100% online courses, no set class times, and quarterly starts. Here's a snapshot:
| Program Level | Popular Majors | Typical Completion Time | Avg. Tuition per Credit (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | Business, IT | 9-12 months | $425 |
| Bachelor's | Business Admin, Criminal Justice, Healthcare Mgmt | 18-24 months | $425 |
| Master's | MBA, IT Mgmt | 12-15 months | $550 |
Data sourced from AIU's official site and student reports. Tuition excludes fees.
This structure suits working professionals, but success depends on self-discipline. Check out our Best Tools for Online Learning & Home Schooling 2025 for tips to stay productive.
Drawing from hundreds of experiences, here's the balanced view:
Our Take: AIU shines for quick credentials in supportive environments but may not suit those planning grad school or employer prestige.
We curated fresh insights from verified reviewers:
Positive Spotlight: "AIU changed my life. Flexible modules let me balance my sales job and family while earning a BA in Marketing in 16 months. Career services connected me to interviews – now promoted!" – Sarah K., Grad 2024 (5/5)
Mixed Experience: "Great faculty and easy pacing for my MS in IT, done in 14 months. But watch fees – they piled up fast, and credits didn't transfer as promised." – Mike R., Current Student (3/5)
Cautionary Tale: "Avoid if job advancement is key. Degree looks good on paper, but recruiters dismissed it. Admin was slow on refunds too." – Jamal T., Alum 2023 (1/5)
AIU often responds publicly, citing program improvements and financial aid options. Trends show better ratings for business programs (3.2/5) vs. education (2.1/5).
How does AIU stack up? We compared based on flexibility, cost, and outcomes:
| Feature | AIU | Typical Online Public Uni | Private For-Profit Peers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accreditation | HLC | Regional (e.g., HLC) | Varies (60% HLC) |
| Avg. Rating (2024) | 2.5/5 | 3.8/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Completion Time | 9-24 months | 24-48 months | 12-36 months |
| Credit Transfer Ease | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) | Medium (3/5) |
| Career Services | Strong (4/5) | Moderate | Strong |
AIU leads in speed but lags in transferability. For kids' edutainment, pair with Best Tablets for Kids in 2025.
Pro Tip: Request a free transcript evaluation before enrolling.
Yes, by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), valid nationwide. However, some employers prioritize Big Ten or Ivy leagues.
Bachelor's in 18-24 months typically; some as fast as 9 months with max credits.
Mixed results – about 50% success rate per reviews. Always verify with target institutions.
$425-$550 per credit; full bachelor's ~$30K before aid.
Reviewers rate them 4/5, with resume tools and job boards helping many land roles.
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