Albukhary International University: Where Education Knows No Boundaries
Albukhary International University (AIU) is a prestigious private university in Malaysia, known for its commitment to providing world-class education with a strong emphasis on humanitarian values. Located in Alor Setar, Kedah, AIU is an institution that blends academic excellence with a unique approach to holistic development, making it a preferred choice for students from around the world.
A private non-profit education institution, AIU operates as a fully residential campus with state-of-the-art facilities, providing a conducive living and learning environment for self-discovery, nurturing relationships, and building understanding on global issues.
Established in 2010, Albukhary International University was founded by the Albukhary Foundation, a philanthropic initiative aimed at providing accessible and high-quality education to talented students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. Over the years, AIU has evolved into a globally recognized institution, fostering a diverse learning environment with students from over 40 countries.
AIU was founded with the aim of inclusion in the field of higher education. Built on the premise that no one should be deprived of an education, the university is unique in that it provides talented, driven yet financially constrained individuals from minority countries with an opportunity to pursue higher education, in hopes that this opportunity will enable its scholars to redefine their future.
Designed and constructed on a 45-acre (18-hectare) site, the AIU campus is located near the city of Alor Setar, the capital of the State of Kedah in the north of Malaysia. The inspiring architectural splendour of the campus is one that mirrors the centres of learning of yesteryears, with several elements reminiscent of classical Muslim architecture during the golden age of learning.
The campus layout, alongside the other entities within the complex, serves as a reminder that while the pursuit of knowledge is paramount to progress, education is only valuable when it is holistic.
Albukhary International University (AIU) is a fully residential university in Alor Setar offering programmes in business, IT, education, and social science. These span undergraduate and postgraduate levels, each designed to cultivate graduates who are equipped for the global stage.
Among its most sought-after disciplines, Business Administration and Management is known for producing industry-ready graduates with strong leadership skills; Social Sciences is recognised for its research contributions in areas like international relations and humanitarian studies; and Information Technology and Computer Science is a growing department focusing on modern digital innovations and technology-driven solutions.
At AIU, students are exposed to a holistic educational approach through combined academic and social engagement programmes, which are carried out throughout the entire study period.
AIU plays a crucial role in shaping the higher education landscape in Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asian region. By prioritizing global diversity, community engagement, and leadership development, AIU prepares graduates to become responsible global citizens. The university collaborates with international academic institutions, industry partners, and research organizations to enhance the quality of education and create opportunities for students worldwide.
The university places a strong emphasis on community service and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to engage in various community projects and initiatives that aim to improve the lives of those in need.
The Albukhary Scholarship Programme One of the most distinctive features of AIU is its fully funded scholarship programme, which removes financial barriers entirely for deserving students.
The Albukhary Scholarship Programme was developed in 2005 with the sole intention of providing a lifeline to the underprivileged through granting them access to higher education, at no cost. Open to Malaysians and international students, the Albukhary Scholarship nurtures a community in which character building is achieved through an emphasis on community service.
The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, and meals expenses for the whole duration of the programme. Beyond that, the AIU scholarship provides a comprehensive package that includes on-campus dormitory accommodation, school fees, and a monthly stipend. Additional support covers books, research projects, and overseas learning opportunities.
Eligibility
Local applicants must be between 17 and 22 years old, while international applicants must be between 17 and 20 years old. Applicants must be single, and household income must be below USD 300 for international applicants. Strong academic results and English proficiency are also required, though AIU offers a complimentary English language preparation course for scholars who have not yet sat a proficiency examination
AIU's facilities include a library equipped with extensive resources and study spaces, on-campus hostels with modern amenities, sports facilities including gyms, sports courts, and fields, and research centres focused on social innovation and development.
AIU seeks to not only offer a holistic scholastic educational experience, but more importantly, the values inculcated in Albukhary Scholars are distinct — the university aims to shape individuals who are intellectually capable, compassionate, humble, adaptable, and strive to improve the state of humanity.
In a world where access to quality education remains unequal, Albukhary International University stands as a rare and powerful exception — a place where talent, not wealth, is the only prerequisite for a world-class future.