The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural, and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The language of instruction is English.

Established by Amiri Decree 139 in 2003, AUK was accredited in 2006 and re-accredited in 2008, by the Council for Private Universities, Ministry of Higher Education - State of Kuwait.

AUK offers students a quality education based on an American college model. The faculty, administration, and staff work hard to create a caring environment where every aspect of student's development gets attention and support. The course of study is designed to prepare students for the contemporary world where critical thinking, communication skills, and life-long learning have become imperative. The Liberal Arts education fulfills student's educational goals and requires rigorous effort in the Major discipline (field of study); it also brings the rewards of a broad general education useful in their future career, whatever field they choose.