American Jewish University Admissions Requirements

American Jewish University (AJU) is a private institution located in Los Angeles, California. It is known for its commitment to Jewish education, cultural studies, leadership development, and interdisciplinary learning. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and adult education programs and emphasizes a holistic approach to admissions, taking into account academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and personal characteristics.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

General Admission Criteria

Prospective undergraduate students seeking admission to American Jewish University must meet the following general criteria:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have completed high school or hold a GED equivalent.
• Academic Performance: A strong academic record in high school is essential. While AJU does not specify a minimum GPA, students should have a solid academic foundation with a well-rounded high school experience.
• Completed Application: Students must submit an application through AJU’s online portal or via the Common Application.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Applicants are required to submit a personal essay that reflects their academic goals, reasons for choosing AJU, and how they will contribute to the campus community.
• Standardized Test Scores (Optional): AJU has a test-optional policy, meaning students may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If submitted, these scores are considered as part of the admissions process but are not mandatory.

Specific Requirements for First-Year Students

First-year undergraduate students (recent high school graduates) must submit the following materials to complete their application:

• Official High School Transcript: Students must request an official transcript from their high school, which must be sent directly to the AJU admissions office.
• Letters of Recommendation: Applicants are encouraged to submit one or more letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to their academic abilities and character.
• Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular activities such as leadership roles, community service, or Jewish cultural activities will strengthen the application.
• Interview (Optional): An interview with an admissions counselor is encouraged but not required. It provides an opportunity for the student to express personal interests and align them with AJU’s mission.

Transfer Students

Students who have previously attended college or university and wish to transfer to AJU must meet the following requirements:

• Minimum GPA: AJU generally requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 from previously attended post-secondary institutions.
• Official College Transcripts: Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities.
• Transfer Credit Evaluation: Courses completed at accredited institutions may be eligible for transfer credit. AJU will evaluate courses based on content, academic rigor, and relevance to the student’s intended program of study.
• Personal Essay: As with first-year students, transfer applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their reasons for transferring and their academic and career aspirations.
• Letter of Recommendation: At least one letter of recommendation from a professor or academic advisor is recommended but not mandatory.

International Students

International applicants are required to meet additional criteria to ensure their readiness for academic study in the United States:

• English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English through one of the following standardized tests:
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (internet-based)
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
  • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100
• Credential Evaluation: International students must submit their high school or college transcripts for evaluation by a recognized credential evaluation service (such as WES or ECE) to determine U.S. equivalency.
• Student Visa: Once accepted, international students must apply for an F-1 student visa. AJU will provide the necessary I-20 form for the visa application process.
• Proof of Financial Resources: Applicants must demonstrate the ability to finance their education and living expenses in the United States by submitting financial documentation, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Adult and Non-Traditional Students

AJU welcomes adult learners and students who are returning to higher education after a break. The admissions process for these students is designed to be flexible:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have completed high school or earned a GED.
• College Transcripts (if applicable): Adult students who have attended college previously should submit transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Work and Life Experience: AJU considers life experience and professional accomplishments as part of the admissions process. Applicants may highlight relevant work or community service in their personal statement.
• Interview (Optional): An interview may be requested to better understand the applicant’s goals and readiness for academic study.

Specialized Undergraduate Programs

AJU offers unique programs that require additional criteria for admission. These programs include:

• Pre-Rabbinic Program: Students interested in pursuing careers in Jewish leadership, particularly the rabbinate, can participate in a pre-rabbinic track. Admission to this program may involve additional interviews with faculty to assess the student’s dedication to Jewish learning and leadership.
• Jewish Studies: Students interested in in-depth Jewish studies may be required to demonstrate a background in Hebrew or Jewish history. Admission to these programs may also involve interviews or submission of additional essays or work samples.

Graduate Admission Requirements

General Graduate Admission Criteria

American Jewish University offers graduate programs that include a Master of Arts in Jewish Studies, Education, and Nonprofit Management, among others. The general graduate admission criteria are as follows:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is preferred. Applicants with a lower GPA may be considered on a case-by-case basis if they provide additional evidence of academic or professional success.
• Completed Application: Graduate students must complete an online application specific to their program of choice.
• Personal Statement: Applicants are required to submit a personal statement explaining their academic and professional goals, as well as why they are interested in pursuing graduate studies at AJU.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most graduate programs require at least two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities or professional experience.
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Applicants must submit a current resume or CV highlighting their educational background, professional experience, and any relevant volunteer or leadership roles.

Program-Specific Requirements

Master of Arts in Jewish Studies

• Hebrew Proficiency: Applicants to the Master of Arts in Jewish Studies program must demonstrate proficiency in Hebrew. Students who do not meet this requirement may be required to complete Hebrew language courses as part of their program.
• Writing Sample: A writing sample is required to demonstrate the applicant’s ability to engage in critical thinking and scholarly writing on Jewish topics.

Master of Arts in Education

• Teaching License (optional): A teaching license is not required for admission but may enhance the application, especially for students seeking advanced positions in education.
• Professional Experience: Experience working in an educational setting is highly recommended, though not mandatory.

Master of Nonprofit Management

• Professional Experience: Applicants with at least two years of experience in the nonprofit sector are preferred.
• Leadership Roles: Emphasis is placed on leadership potential and experience, whether in a professional or volunteer capacity.

Application Process

How to Apply

The application process at American Jewish University is straightforward and involves the following steps:

• Submit Online Application: All students, whether undergraduate or graduate, must complete and submit an application through AJU’s online portal.
• Submit Transcripts: Applicants must request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions (high school, college, or university) and have them sent directly to the admissions office.
• Submit Test Scores (Optional): If applicable, students may choose to submit SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, or other relevant test scores.
• Submit Additional Materials: Depending on the program, applicants may need to provide letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a resume, or a writing sample.
• Complete an Interview (Optional): For some programs, particularly graduate and specialized tracks, applicants may be invited for an interview.

Application Deadlines

While AJU accepts applications on a rolling basis, it is recommended that students submit their applications by the following priority deadlines for optimal consideration:

• Fall Semester: April 1 (Priority Deadline)
• Spring Semester: November 1 (Priority Deadline)
• Graduate Programs: Certain graduate programs may have specific deadlines, so applicants should check with the department for details.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

AJU is committed to making education accessible to students of all backgrounds. The university offers a range of financial aid options, including:

• FAFSA: All students seeking financial aid should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). AJU’s school code is 001163.
• Merit-Based Scholarships: Scholarships are available for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
• Need-Based Grants: Students with demonstrated financial need may qualify for grants to help offset tuition costs.
• Work-Study Opportunities: AJU offers work-study positions, allowing students to work on campus and earn money toward their education.
• Graduate Fellowships: Graduate students may apply for fellowships, which often provide tuition assistance and opportunities for research or teaching assistantships.

School Contact Information

For more information about the admissions process or to schedule a campus visit, prospective students can contact American Jewish University’s admissions office through the following channels:

• Admissions Office Address:
  American Jewish University
  15600 Mulholland Drive
  Los Angeles, CA 90077
• Phone Number: (310) 476-9777
• Toll-Free: (800) 752-0612
• Email: admissions@aju.edu
• Website: www.aju.edu
• Office Hours:
  Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  Saturday – Sunday: Closed