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American University of Afghanistan Graduation of first
Foundation Studies Program Students

Kabul, Afghanistan:
The American University of Afghanistan (AUAf) graduated its first class of students from the Foundation Studies Program (FSP).
The FSP class has been operating since March 25, 2006 with lesson primarily consisting of English Language training. In addition the students have also been improving their critical thinking, math and study skills and have had the opportunity to work in the university's well-equipped computer laboratories.

Students, parents, teachers and members of the AUAf Board of Trustees attended the graduation ceremony at the AUAf Campus on Darlaman Road. During the ceremony students commented particularly on the quality of the tuition, the teaching methodology used and how much they enjoyed the lessons.

Some students are also supported by their employers and AUAf was delighted to be able to welcome the Director of the International School of Kabul, who is sponsoring a member of their staff to attend courses at AUAf.
Female students make up about 30% of the total FSP intake. In the most recent edition of the AUAf student newspaper, one of the women, Zohra, commented that "studying at AUAf was really very effective and everyone learned so many new things. The environment was very comfortable and convenient...(and) the method of teaching was more practical."

Shafiullah stated that part of the attraction of studying at AUAf was the development of new friendships. ÒI am very fond of the team in general and my classmates in particular. I have benefited fully from this programme and appreciate the efforts of all the teachers who have taught me."

Another student, Samin said his personal experiences at the American University of Afghanistan were beyond anything that he had imagined and that his advice to all Afghan students is "to take advantage of this opportunity given to us by the AUAf to the fullest extent".

Most of the students who completed the FSP course intend to go on to the Undergraduate  Degree Program. AUAf is currently offering two degree programs, in Business Management and Information Communication Technology, both which start in September 2006. The students have taken TOEFL or IELTS English language tests through external institutions such as the British Council, in order to ensure the transparency of the recruitment process.

The university now has openings for students who have achieved a suitable TOEFL or IELTS score to join the Undergraduate Program in September 2006 or January 2007. There are also places available in the Foundation Studies Program and in the Business English course.

AUAf overview
Currently housed in the facilities occupied by the American International School of Kabul on Darulamen Road until 1979, AUAf offers a high quality US-style liberal arts education to students from Afghanistan and abroad.
AUAf offers a range of courses.

-       The Foundation Studies Program provides intensive instruction aimed at students who wish to enter university undergraduate programs.

-       The Undergraduate Degree Program offers 4-year degrees in Business Administration and Information Communication Technology.

-       The Professional Development Institute offers specific courses aimed at Afghan Professionals, including Business English classes for staff in NGOs, the private sector and the government.

-       Specific courses for university faculty from throughout Afghanistan.