Atlantic International University - Misled by an Online University Honolulu Hawaii

In 2020, I enrolled at Atlantic International University (AIU) with high hopes of building a better future for myself and my community. Like many students around the world, I was drawn to their promises of flexible learning, international respect, and global accreditation. I paid thousands of dollars and spent years studying, only to find out that the degree I earned is not recognized in my country.

This fact was never made clear to me when I enrolled. I was misled. I was never informed that I would graduate with a degree that is essentially useless where I live and work. I feel deceived, emotionally broken, and financially harmed.

After graduation, I reached out to AIU asking for support, clarity, and ultimately a refund. Instead, I received generic responses and offers that avoided the real issue. They refused to take real responsibility, despite clear evidence that I — and other students — were never properly informed.

I have already filed official complaints with:

• The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA)
• The Federal Student Aid (FSA) Complaint System
• The Better Business Bureau (BBB)

I am also in the process of exposing this situation publicly. I’ve started sharing my story on platforms where future students can see the truth.

 Right now, I am asking: What else can I do? What legal steps, media channels, or advocacy groups can support me in holding AIU accountable?

I’m not going to stop. I’ve worked too hard and invested too much to let this go in silence. If you’ve gone through something similar, or you have professional advice — please reach out. This is bigger than just my story — it’s about protecting others from going through the same pain.