Al Ahliyya Amman University

For international students, one of the university's notable characteristics is its international student infrastructure. AAU has dedicated services for international students, including assistance with accommodation and living arrangements, visa and residency support, student welfare services and activities designed for students from different national backgrounds.

The university is also becoming more visible in international rankings. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, AAU was ranked 643rd globally. In the Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2026, it was ranked 132nd in Asia and first among Jordanian universities in that ranking. These rankings provide useful context, but they should not be the only factor used when choosing a university.

Where Is Al Ahliyya Amman University Located?

Al Ahliyya Amman University is located on the Al-Salt Road in the Amman area of Jordan. Although its name identifies it with Amman, the university's campus is positioned outside the most central parts of the capital, making commuting and accommodation decisions important considerations for students.

The university campus covers approximately 185,000 square metres and includes academic buildings, student facilities, sports facilities, library services and green areas. The campus has approximately 14,000 square metres of green space.

For an international student, the location offers a different experience from studying at a university in central Amman. Students should consider their daily transportation requirements, especially if they choose accommodation away from the university.

Amman itself is Jordan's largest city and the country's main centre for business, government, healthcare, technology, culture and professional employment. Students therefore have access to a much larger urban environment beyond the university campus.

The cost of living in Amman can vary considerably depending on accommodation, lifestyle and transportation choices. Students who live close to campus or use university-supported transportation can generally simplify their daily commute, while students choosing central Amman may have a wider range of restaurants, shops and social activities but should budget carefully for transportation.

Programs at Al Ahliyya Amman University

Al Ahliyya Amman University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across technology, business, engineering, health sciences, dentistry, design, languages, education, law, hospitality and other fields. The university's current undergraduate program listings include 53 programs and study options.

Faculty of Computing and Technology

Technology is one of AAU's more clearly developed academic areas, with undergraduate programs covering software development, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The Faculty of Information Technology also offers graduate study in areas such as cybersecurity and data science and artificial intelligence.

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Networks and Cybersecurity
• Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

Faculty of Business and Management

The Business School combines traditional business education with newer areas connected to digital commerce, financial technology, analytics and logistics. This makes the faculty relevant to students looking for conventional business degrees as well as more technology-oriented business specializations.

• Business Administration
• E-Marketing and Digital Communication
• Financial Technology
• Electronic Business and Commerce
• Business Analytics Technology
• International Accounting and Auditing
• Crisis and Disaster Management
• Supply Chain Management and Digital Logistics

Faculty of Engineering

Engineering at AAU covers traditional engineering disciplines alongside newer areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. Several engineering programs currently require a minimum secondary-school grade of 80 percent.

• Communications and Computer Engineering
• Medical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Engineering
• Electric Vehicles Engineering
• Industrial Engineering

AFaculty of Health and Allied Medical Sciences

AAU has a substantial health-related academic portfolio. The Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences covers several healthcare professions, while the university also has dedicated faculties for Nursing, Pharmacy and Dentistry.

• Clinical Psychology
• Medical Laboratory Sciences
• Audiology and Speech Pathology
• Optometry Science
• Cosmetic Science
• Physical Therapy
• Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
• Occupational Therapy
• Nursing
• Pharmacy

Faculty of Dentistry

Dentistry is one of the university's higher-entry academic areas. The undergraduate Doctor of Dental Surgery program is listed at 200 credit hours and currently has a minimum grade requirement of 90 percent. Dental Technology is also available as an undergraduate program.

• Doctor of Dental Surgery
• Dental Technology

Faculty of Architecture and Design

The university's design-related programs have a strong digital component. Students can choose between architecture, interior design, graphic design and game development, depending on their interests.

• Digital Architecture Engineering
• Digital Interior Design
• Digital Media and Graphic Design
• Digital Game Design and Development

Faculty of Arts and Languages

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences offers programs focused on English, translation and multilingual communication. The combination of English with Chinese or German gives the faculty a somewhat broader language focus than a traditional English-language program.

• English Language and Literature
• English Language and Translation
• Chinese and English Languages
• German and English Languages
• Applied English

Faculty of Law and Education

Students interested in legal studies or education can choose from programs within the Faculty of Law and Faculty of Educational Sciences.

• Law
• Physical and Health Education
• Sports Technology

Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism

The university also provides a hospitality-focused bachelor's program that combines hospitality management with culinary arts.

• Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts

Faculty of Agricultural Technology and Food

Agricultural technology is another specialized area at AAU. The university combines biotechnology with agriculture and also offers a food manufacturing program.

• Agricultural Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering
• Food Manufacturing Technology

Faculty of Technical Education

Students looking for shorter technical qualifications can consider the university's diploma-level options. These programs cover practical areas ranging from software engineering and automotive engineering to media, culinary arts and medical equipment.

• Film and Television Diploma
• Interior Design Diploma
• Automotive Engineering Diploma
• Computing Diploma Software Engineering
• Medical Equipment Technology Diploma
• Hospitality Management Diploma – Culinary Arts
• Jewelry Design and Manufacturing

Top Programs at Al Ahliyya Amman University in Jordan

AAU does not present a single official list of its "top programs." A more useful approach is to identify programs that stand out because of their specialization, entry requirements, professional relevance, or the university's academic structure.

• Doctor of Dental Surgery: A large 200-credit-hour program with a relatively high 90 percent minimum grade requirement.
• Data Science and Artificial Intelligence: A technology-focused program addressing one of the fastest-changing areas of the digital economy.
• Networks and Cybersecurity: Relevant to organizations facing increasing demand for information security professionals.
• Software Engineering: A practical choice for students interested in software development and technology careers.
• Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Engineering: Combines engineering with emerging technologies.
• Pharmacy: A long-established professional health field with a 162-credit-hour undergraduate program.
• Business Analytics Technology: Combines business education with analytical and technology-oriented skills.
• Electric Vehicles Engineering: A newer engineering specialization connected to the transition toward electric mobility.
• Digital Architecture Engineering: Suitable for students interested in architecture alongside digital design technologies.
• Supply Chain Management and Digital Logistics: Combines logistics with digital business processes.

Students should still evaluate each program individually. A program being relatively distinctive does not automatically mean it is the best choice for every student.

Strongest Fields at Al Ahliyya Amman University

Computing, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence

AAU has built a relatively broad technology portfolio around computer science, software engineering, networks and cybersecurity, and data science and artificial intelligence. The Faculty of Information Technology also offers master's degrees in cybersecurity and data science and artificial intelligence.

The faculty states that some of its programs are nationally recognized and that relevant programs have accreditation associated with the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. For a student considering technology, the availability of undergraduate and graduate pathways can be an important advantage.

Engineering and Emerging Technologies

The engineering portfolio is notable for combining established disciplines such as civil and electrical engineering with programs in robotics, artificial intelligence, communications, medical engineering and electric vehicles.

This range is particularly relevant to students who want an engineering degree but are interested in newer technology applications rather than only traditional engineering disciplines.

Health Sciences and Dentistry

AAU offers a wide selection of health-related degrees, including pharmacy, nursing, dentistry and allied medical sciences. The breadth of the health portfolio gives students several professional pathways within the same institution.

However, health programs often have higher academic entry requirements and more demanding professional requirements than general academic degrees. Students from outside Jordan should also check whether the qualification will be recognized for professional practice in their intended country after graduation.

Business and Digital Commerce

The Business School combines conventional business programs with financial technology, e-marketing, digital communication, electronic commerce, business analytics and digital logistics.

This combination may appeal to students who want a business degree but do not want their studies to be limited to traditional management subjects.

The real cost of studying at Al Ahliyya Amman University

Tuition fees for international students

AAU publishes tuition information by program rather than using one university-wide international tuition rate. Current undergraduate listings show that the cost per credit hour varies substantially according to the program.

These figures illustrate the difference between programs rather than representing one fixed annual cost. The total amount a student pays will depend on the number of credits registered, the program, the applicable fee structure, and any other university charges.

For example, a student in a 132-credit-hour program cannot simply multiply the published credit-hour rate by four years and assume that this is the final amount they will pay. Course loads, fees, academic progression, and other charges can affect the actual total.

Students should therefore build their budget around the specific program rather than using the average cost of another faculty.

Monthly living costs

Living costs are separate from tuition and can vary significantly depending on where a student lives and how they travel. Accommodation is usually the largest variable expense for students who are not living with family.

Students should budget for:

• Accommodation
• Food and groceries
• Transportation
• Mobile phone services
• Internet
• Personal expenses
• Study materials and equipment
• Healthcare and other unexpected expenses

Because personal spending patterns differ significantly, it is more useful to create an individual monthly budget than to rely on a single city-wide estimate.

Is Al Ahliyya Amman University worth the cost?

For some students, AAU can offer a reasonable combination of academic variety, professional programs, campus facilities and international student support. Its program portfolio is particularly broad, which means students can choose from technology, health, engineering, business, design, languages and other disciplines.

The university's international student services are another practical advantage. International students have access to dedicated support related to accommodation, student welfare and residency procedures, reducing some of the administrative burden associated with moving to Jordan.

Career support is also an important part of the university's student services. In 2026, AAU's Career Day involved more than 100 companies and institutions across sectors including technology, engineering, healthcare, business, tourism and agriculture. The university has also reported graduates obtaining employment through career events and employer connections.

However, students should compare the total cost of their chosen program with alternatives in Jordan. The strongest choice may differ depending on whether the student's priority is ranking, professional accreditation, tuition cost, a specific specialization, location or career opportunities.

Scholarships: available, but do not depend on them alone

AAU maintains scholarship and financial-support policies and has dedicated international student support services. The university also describes merit-based and need-based opportunities for international students.

However, scholarship availability, eligibility and award levels can vary. Students should not build their entire financial plan around receiving a scholarship unless they have confirmed their eligibility and award in writing.

Students should investigate:

• Academic merit requirements
• Financial need criteria where applicable
• Whether international students are eligible
• Whether the award covers tuition only or additional expenses
• Whether the scholarship is renewable
• Minimum academic performance requirements after enrollment
• Application deadlines and required documents

AAU also has institutional procedures covering scholarship allocation, financial assistance and financial waivers, which indicates that financial support is part of its broader student-support framework.

Admission requirements at Al Ahliyya Amman University

Admission requirements depend on the program and study level. For undergraduate admission, applicants generally need a secondary-school certificate or equivalent qualification.

The university's current general regulations state that the minimum secondary-school average for many programs is 60 percent. Higher requirements apply to particular faculties:

These are minimum academic thresholds and should not be interpreted as guarantees of admission. Individual programs may have additional conditions, and international qualifications may need to meet Jordanian equivalency requirements.

Documents for international applicants

International applicants may be asked to provide certified academic documents and identification documents. The university's admission regulations identify documents such as:

• Certified secondary-school diploma
• Certified academic transcripts
• Passport copy
• Personal photographs
• Birth certificate copy
• Certified equivalency documentation where applicable
• Other documents required according to nationality or study status

Students transferring from another university may also need certified transcripts and documentation related to their previous university.

Some nationalities may require an official approval letter from the relevant cultural attaché before joining the university. International applicants should therefore check the requirements that apply specifically to their nationality.

English language requirements

AAU uses English language placement testing as part of its academic placement process. New students may need to complete placement tests in English, Arabic and computer skills.

Students who do not meet the required level in the English placement test may be required to take a remedial English course before proceeding to the relevant university English course.

This means that international students should not assume that admission alone means they will automatically enter all English-language courses without assessment.

Where do students usually live in Jordan?

AAU provides university accommodation, with on-campus dormitory options specifically described for female students. The university's accommodation services include furnished rooms and suites, supervision, internet, utilities, and transportation-related services.

University on-campus accommodation

The university's published accommodation options include different room and suite arrangements. Current listed prices vary according to the residence and room type.

Summer accommodation is also available at separate rates for the listed residence options.

The accommodation service includes facilities such as internet, electricity, water, heating and hot water. The university also describes shopping transportation, transportation between accommodation and faculties, and support for students who require medical attention.

For international students, on-campus accommodation can be particularly useful during the first semester because it reduces the difficulty of arranging private housing immediately after arriving in Jordan.

Private accommodation in Amman

Students who prefer private accommodation can consider areas of Amman and the surrounding western side of the city. The right location depends heavily on whether the student prioritizes proximity to campus, access to central Amman, privacy or budget.

Students should compare the rent with transportation costs rather than looking at rent alone. A cheaper apartment can become more expensive if the daily commute is long or requires frequent taxi use.

Your first month in Amman: what should you expect?

The first month is usually less about academic difficulty and more about getting daily life organized. International students should expect several practical tasks to happen at roughly the same time.

• Accommodation: Confirm your room, contract and move-in arrangements before classes begin.
• University registration: Complete registration and any required placement tests.
• Residency: Non-Jordanian students need to follow the relevant residency process.
• Transportation: Work out your daily route to campus before your timetable becomes busy.
• Banking and payments: Understand which payment methods are convenient for tuition and daily expenses.
• SIM card: Arrange a local mobile connection for communication and everyday services.
• Shopping: Identify supermarkets, pharmacies and other essential services near your accommodation.
• Academic adjustment: Learn how attendance, assessments, assignments and communication with lecturers work.
• Social life: Join activities gradually rather than trying to adapt to everything during the first week.

AAU has a dedicated international student support function designed to help international students with accommodation, living arrangements, communication, academic and social matters.

Working while studying and after graduation

International students in Jordan should distinguish between university career support and legal permission to work. Being enrolled at a university does not automatically mean that an international student has unrestricted employment rights.

AAU has a Career Guidance and Alumni Follow-up Office that provides career counseling, training opportunities, employment-related support and career events. The office also works to connect students and graduates with private-sector employers.

Career Day 2026 brought more than 100 companies and institutions to the university, while previous career events have included dozens of participating organizations from different sectors.

For students considering employment during or after their studies, the practical question is therefore not only whether jobs exist, but whether their nationality, residency status, degree and professional field allow them to work legally.

International students should confirm current Jordanian work and residency rules before accepting employment, particularly for regulated professions such as healthcare, dentistry, pharmacy and engineering.

Three weaknesses you should know

1. The campus is not in the centre of Amman

Students who want to live in central Amman and spend most of their free time in the city's busiest areas should factor commuting into their decision. The university's location on Al-Salt Road can be convenient for some students but less convenient for those living farther inside Amman.

2. Some programs are significantly more expensive than others

The difference between programs can be substantial. A technology or business student may face a very different tuition structure from a dentistry student. Students should therefore compare the full cost of their specific degree rather than using a general university tuition estimate.

3. Professional recognition matters after graduation.

For students from Saudi Arabia or another GCC country, the most important question for a professional degree may be what happens after graduation. Healthcare, engineering and other regulated professions can have country-specific licensing and recognition requirements. Students should investigate those requirements before enrolling rather than assuming that a university degree automatically qualifies them to practise in their home country.

Quick comparison with other universities

Students considering AAU may also compare it with other private universities in Jordan, particularly when choosing between technology, business, health sciences and engineering programs.

The comparison shows why rankings should be used as one indicator rather than a final decision. A student choosing dentistry, cybersecurity or digital design may reach a different conclusion depending on the specific program, tuition and professional pathway.

Considering other universities in Amman?

Students should compare at least two or three universities offering the same major before making a final decision. Look at the exact curriculum, accreditation, tuition, admission requirements, location, practical training, and career support rather than comparing university names alone.

Who is Al Ahliyya Amman University for, and who is it not for?

Best suited to students who:

• Want a broad choice of professional and academic programs.
• Are interested in technology, engineering, health sciences, business, or design.
• Want to study in Jordan rather than move to a more distant international destination.
• Prefer a private university environment.
• Need structured support with international student administration.
• Value access to on-campus facilities and student activities.
• Want access to career guidance and employer events while studying.

May not be ideal for students who:

• Want a university located directly in central Amman.
• Have a very limited budget for a high-cost professional program such as dentistry.
• Are choosing a university purely on the basis of global ranking position.
• Need a particular program that is not offered by AAU.
• Plan to practice a regulated profession abroad without first checking recognition and licensing requirements.

Before rankings, ask yourself these questions.

A university ranking can help narrow down a shortlist, but it cannot tell you whether a particular university is right for your circumstances.

• Can I afford the complete cost of my degree rather than just the first semester?
• Does AAU offer the exact specialization I want?
• Is the program recognized for the career I want to pursue?
• How much will accommodation and transportation add to my budget?
• Would living on campus make my first year easier?
• Is the university's location convenient for my lifestyle?
• Will the qualification meet the requirements of my home country?
• Do I need English-language preparation before starting my degree?
• What practical training is available in my chosen field?
• Would another Jordanian university offer better value for my particular major?

These questions are often more useful than simply asking which university has the highest ranking.

Al Ahliyya Amman University Ranking

QS World University Rankings 2027 for Al Ahliyya Amman University

Al Ahliyya Amman University is ranked 643rd in the QS World University Rankings 2027. This places AAU among the globally ranked Jordanian universities and makes it one of the more visible private universities in Jordan in the latest QS edition.

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 for Al Ahliyya Amman University

AAU is placed in the 401–500 band in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.

The Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2026

In the 2026 Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings, AAU is ranked 132nd in Asia. It was also ranked first among Jordanian universities in that edition.

The Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2026

AAU is ranked 23rd in the Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2026 and is listed as Jordan's highest-ranked university in that edition.

Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026

AAU ranked 28th globally in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026. The university was also reported as first in Jordan and the Arab world in the overall sustainability ranking, with a particularly strong result for Quality Education.

The Academic Ranking of World Universities

A current ARWU position for Al Ahliyya Amman University was not identified in the available ranking information. Students should not interpret the absence of a listed position as a specific ranking result.

Similar Universities to Al Ahliyya Amman University

Several universities can be considered alongside AAU, particularly for students comparing private higher education in Jordan.

Applied Science Private University

Applied Science Private University is another private university in Amman with substantial offerings in technology, engineering, business, pharmacy and health-related disciplines. It is particularly relevant to students comparing AAU for technology and professional programs.

University of Petra

The University of Petra is another private university in Amman with programs spanning information technology, engineering, business, pharmacy, architecture and design, law and other fields. It can be a useful comparison for students who want to stay in Amman while evaluating different private-university environments.

University of Jordan

The University of Jordan is a public institution and therefore represents a different university model from AAU. Students comparing the two should consider differences in admission, tuition, university scale, academic structure and student experience rather than comparing rankings alone.

Questions students ask often

Is Al Ahliyya Amman University suitable for Saudi students?

AAU has dedicated international student services and welcomes students from a range of national backgrounds. Saudi students should nevertheless check the academic and recognition requirements that apply to their specific degree and future career plans.

How much does Al Ahliyya Amman University cost?

Tuition varies by program and is generally calculated according to credit hours. Current undergraduate listings show rates ranging from approximately 70–390 JOD per credit hour depending on the program, with dentistry among the most expensive listed programs.

Does Al Ahliyya Amman University offer accommodation?

Yes. AAU provides on-campus accommodation options, with published dormitory arrangements and prices for female students. The university also has services designed to help international students find accommodation.

What grade do I need to enter Al Ahliyya Amman University?

The general minimum for many undergraduate programs is 60 percent, but higher thresholds apply to specific fields. Engineering and pharmacy generally require 80 percent, while the Doctor of Dental Surgery program currently lists a 90 percent minimum.

Does AAU offer computer science and artificial intelligence programs?

Yes. The Faculty of Information Technology offers Computer Science, Software Engineering, Networks and Cybersecurity, and Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. The university also offers related graduate programs.

Is Al Ahliyya Amman University good for dentistry?

AAU offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery program with 200 credit hours. Dentistry is one of the university's higher-entry and higher-cost programs, so students should compare its curriculum, facilities, professional recognition and total cost with other dental schools before deciding.

Can international students get help with residency?

Yes. AAU has a Visa and Residency Office that follows up on procedures related to entry visas and residence permits for non-Jordanian students.

Does AAU have career support?

Yes. The Career Guidance and Alumni Follow-up Office provides career counseling, training and employment support and organizes career fairs connecting students and graduates with employers.

A message for parents

For parents, choosing a university in another city or country involves more than comparing academic rankings. The practical questions are whether the degree is appropriate for the student's career, whether the total cost is manageable, whether accommodation is suitable and whether the university provides enough support for a young person living away from home.

AAU has several structures that can make the transition easier for international students, including dedicated international student support, residency assistance, accommodation options, student services and career guidance.

Parents should nevertheless look beyond the university's general reputation. The most important check is the specific program, particularly for professional degrees where future licensing or recognition may determine whether the graduate can practice in their intended country.

Need help applying to Al Ahliyya Amman University?

YouApply can help students understand and compare university programs, admission requirements, tuition information, scholarships and application options so they can make a more informed study decision.

Apply Now! for Al Ahliyya Amman University.

1. Choose a course

Start by identifying the exact program you want to study. Compare the curriculum, credit hours, minimum admission grade, tuition per credit hour and professional requirements before applying.

For regulated professions such as dentistry, pharmacy, nursing and engineering, also consider the professional recognition requirements in the country where you intend to work after graduation.

2. Check your eligibility

Review the minimum secondary-school grade for your chosen program and confirm that your qualification is accepted as equivalent to the Jordanian secondary-school certificate where applicable.

Students applying from outside Jordan should also check whether their academic documents require certification or equivalency procedures.

3. Gather your documents.

Prepare the documents relevant to your application. Depending on your circumstances and program, these may include:

• Passport
• Secondary-school certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Certified equivalency documents where required
• Personal photographs
• Birth certificate
• Transfer documents if you previously studied at another university
• Other program- or nationality-specific documents

4. Check your finances.

Calculate the cost of tuition based on your actual program and expected credit load. Then add accommodation, transportation, food, personal expenses and other study-related costs.

If you are considering university accommodation, compare the available room types with private housing options and include transportation in the calculation.

5. Submit your application.

AAU provides admission services for undergraduate and graduate applicants. International applicants should follow the current application route applicable to their study level and nationality and submit the required certified documents.

After admission, international students should also follow the procedures required for their visa and residency status in Jordan.

GCC-Specific Relevance

For students from Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries, Jordan can be an attractive study destination because it is geographically close to the Gulf and offers a familiar regional environment while still providing an independent university experience.

AAU's international student support structure can also be useful for GCC students who are moving away from home for the first time. The university has dedicated services for international students, nationality-based student clubs and support with accommodation and residency matters.

For GCC students choosing professional degrees, however, the most important issue is future recognition. Before paying tuition, students should verify the current requirements of the relevant authority in their home country for recognition, professional licensing and employment.

Distance from home is another practical consideration. Amman is relatively accessible from GCC countries compared with many European, North American or Asian destinations, which can make family visits easier. At the same time, students should still consider the full cost of flights, accommodation and living expenses when creating an annual budget.

Making the final decision

Al Ahliyya Amman University offers a broad private-university experience with particular depth across technology, engineering, health sciences, business and design. Its international student services, campus facilities, accommodation options and career-support activities add practical value for students coming from outside Jordan.

Its latest international rankings also show that AAU has strengthened its position in global and regional higher education rankings, including a QS World University Ranking of 643 in 2027 and a 132nd-place position in the 2026 Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings.

But the right question is not simply whether AAU is a good university. The better question is whether it is the right university for your particular degree, budget and career plan.

A student choosing cybersecurity may evaluate the university very differently from someone choosing dentistry. A student with a limited budget may prioritize tuition and accommodation, while another student may place more weight on professional training or international rankings.

Before applying, compare the exact program you want with at least two alternatives. Look at tuition, admission requirements, professional recognition, curriculum, location, accommodation and career opportunities together. That comparison will give you a much more reliable basis for deciding whether Al Ahliyya Amman University is the right fit.