American International College logo

American International College

Springfield, MA Private ยท Urban www.aic.edu
Accept Rate
96.9%
Grad Rate
39.8%
Enrollment
1,097
Avg SAT
1026
Tuition
$42,970
Median Salary
$53,124
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C+
Aid

The Vibe Check

American International College feels like a tight-knit, supportive community where students are known by name, not just a student ID. The urban campus has a cozy, inclusive atmosphere with a strong focus on global perspectives and hands-on learning. It's a place where you're encouraged to find your path with faculty who are genuinely invested in your success.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

96.9%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1026

ACT Score Range

ACT data not available

Admissions Tips

1) Highlight your interest in AIC's signature programs like Health Professions or Criminal Justice in your application essay, showing how you'll contribute to those hands-on fields. 2) Since the acceptance rate is high, a solid GPA and a completed application (including all materials) will make you a strong candidate; consider applying Early Decision to show your commitment. 3) Take the time to connect with the admissions office and, if possible, visit campus or attend a virtual session to demonstrate your interest.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1026
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

AIC excels in practical, career-focused fields like Health Professions, Criminal Justice, and Business, offering strong hands-on learning opportunities through clinicals, internships, and partnerships with local agencies. Teaching quality is a priority, with small class sizes that foster direct interaction with professors. While it may not be a research powerhouse, students can engage in undergraduate research, particularly in the sciences and social sciences.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
33.2%
Criminal Justice
16.4%
Psychology
10.8%
Business & Marketing
10.3%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
7.9%
Social Sciences
5.6%
Multidisciplinary Studies
5.1%
Communications
3.3%
Biology & Biomedical
1.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
1.9%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

39.8%
Graduation Rate
67.8%
Retention Rate
1,097
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$42,970
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$25,299
After financial aid
Total Cost
$55,463
Cost of attendance/year
50%
Receive Pell Grants
80.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Springfield

Springfield offers a mix of urban experiences, from exploring the Basketball Hall of Fame and local museums to enjoying the city's diverse food scene and parks. Students often find fun in nearby outdoor activities or taking the short train ride to Boston or New York for weekend trips. It's a city with a rich history and local character, providing a more affordable urban experience than major metropolitan hubs.

Local Rent Check

$1,115 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Springfield
Explore Springfield

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$171,880
$0Est. 4 Years: $171,880

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($53,124):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus itself is considered safe with its own campus police and well-lit pathways, but as with any urban area, students should be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Springfield has a higher crime rate than the national average, so using campus safety resources and being cautious is essential.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ High acceptance rate makes it accessible for many students.
  • โœ“ Strong focus on career-ready majors like Health Professions and Criminal Justice with hands-on learning.
  • โœ“ Small class sizes foster personalized attention from professors.
  • โœ“ Diverse student body with a significant international population.

Cons

  • โœ— Low graduation and retention rates are a concern and may indicate challenges in student support or preparedness.
  • โœ— Urban location requires awareness of safety, and campus life may feel limited to some.
  • โœ— Out-of-state tuition is the same as in-state, but the cost is still high relative to potential earnings.
  • โœ— Limited national name recognition compared to larger universities.

Notable Alumni

Michele R. McConologue
Associate Professor of English at the University of Michigan and a published author.
Dr. John J. O'Keefe
President of AIC and a leader in higher education administration.
James J. O'Connell
Founder of the nonprofit Project Hope and a prominent healthcare advocate.

Frequently Asked Questions

American International College is primarily known for its strong programs in Health Professions (including nursing and physical therapy), Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Business. It has a distinctive focus on global education and a diverse, international student body, offering a supportive, hands-on learning environment in an urban setting.

No, American International College is not hard to get into, with a very high acceptance rate of 96.9%. This indicates that the admissions process is selective but accessible. A solid academic record, including a competitive GPA and completed application materials, is typically sufficient for admission, making it a viable option for many applicants.

Campus life at AIC is intimate and community-oriented due to its small enrollment of around 1,097 students. Students enjoy a supportive environment with direct access to faculty and a variety of clubs and activities. The urban location in Springfield provides access to city amenities and nearby outdoor recreation, though students should be mindful of the urban setting's safety considerations.

The value is moderate. With an average net price of $25,299 and 10-year median earnings of $53,124, the ROI can be positive, especially for graduates in high-demand fields like health professions. However, the low graduation rate (39.8%) is a significant risk; if you don't graduate, the investment may not pay off as hoped. Success depends heavily on choosing a major with strong job prospects and completing the degree efficiently.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Baystate Health Massachusetts State Police Springfield Public Schools Liberty Mutual Local Government Agencies
Smart Start Score
52

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,247
  • In-State Tuition $42,970
  • Zip Code 01109

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 49.6% โ™€ 50.4%

The Money Talk

With a sticker price over $42,000 but an average net price around $25,000, the cost is significant but can be manageable with financial aid, especially since half of students receive Pell Grants. The 10-year median earnings of $53,124 is a solid return for a private college, suggesting the degree can pay off, particularly in high-demand fields like health. However, the low graduation rate is a risk factor, as not completing a degree on time can increase the overall debt burden.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $42,970
Housing (12 mo) $13,380
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $63,550
With avg financial aid:
$25,299/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.