The roots of The American University of Rome were planted after the Second World War, as several factors (not least of them the end of the War itself) encouraged increasing interest on the part of American students in Italian culture. Classes grew gradually over the years, and the University was incorporated in the District of Columbia in 1969. It was licensed as a degree-program granting institution by this Education Licensure Commission in 1986. It has consistently been accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, receiving its most recent grant on December 2003, valid through December 2008.

For nearly 25 years, the University operated out of several locations in downtown Rome. In 1993 it moved to its current site, a dedicated set of buildings in a prestigious neighborhood within walking distance of the center of "the Eternal City".

Today the University enrolls some 500 students each semester, of which 40% are matriculating students and 60% (mostly Americans) are study abroad students. Most recently, 40 different nationalities were represented at AUR, representing 5 continents.