Experience your first year of college in one of the world's most historically rich cities. The American University of Rome (AUR) First Year Abroad Program offers first-year students an immersive study abroad experience positioned on Rome's tallest hill, where you'll study in a campus surrounded by lush gardens with spectacular views of the city and remnants of the Roman Empire. Your classroom extends beyond traditional buildings—courses are deliberately designed to integrate Rome itself as a living laboratory, with focused fieldwork and integrated excursions that bring your coursework to life.

As a first-year student in this program, you'll choose from an extensive array of courses across business & economics, humanities & social sciences, fine arts & film, languages, media & communication, and math & science. Whether you're drawn to studying Roman archaeology on-site, learning Italian, exploring art history through Rome's Renaissance and Baroque treasures, or developing skills in filmmaking and visual culture, you'll find courses specifically curated for first-year students. The program emphasizes personal connection and academic success: with a smaller student body at AUR, you'll develop meaningful relationships with faculty and peers who support your growth both inside and outside the classroom.

You'll live in cohort-shared apartments centrally located and close to campus, creating a built-in community of fellow first-year students navigating this transformative experience together. The campus itself sits within walking distance of Rome's city center, giving you immediate access to libraries, computer facilities, and two relaxing gardens. Beyond academics, you'll participate in curated engagement opportunities including cooking lessons, guided tours of the Capitoline Museums, visits to gelato factories, and explorations of iconic sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.

Comprehensive support ensures your success and wellbeing throughout your time in Rome. You'll receive weekly academic advising during your first six weeks to monitor your academic progress, help you adjust to a new learning environment, support your social integration, and navigate culture shock. The on-site team provides 24/7 emergency assistance, mental health support, and career resources. Your program fee covers tuition, official transcripts, housing with internet, international insurance, cultural activities and excursions, airport reception, in-country orientation, and local team support. You'll be responsible for flights, meals, books, personal spending, travel insurance, and your international cell phone plan—and WorldStrides provides a budgeting worksheet to help you plan ahead.

This program is ideal for first-year undergraduate students seeking to begin their college journey in a dynamic global setting where history, culture, and academics intersect daily. Whether you're interested in exploring classical studies, developing language skills, pursuing creative disciplines, or building foundational knowledge in business and social sciences, studying your first year abroad in Rome offers a transformative start to your undergraduate career. Extended application deadlines are available for select programs, with opportunities for both Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 entry.