Amman’s Applied Science Private University (ASU) was established in 1991 at the behest of Jordanian expatriates. Limited availability in public systems had forced expats to send school-age children abroad to study — with high costs for the parents and culture shock for the students. Now the university’s curricula and research facilities attract academics from the world over, with nine faculties, 33 bachelor and 8 masters degrees on offer. Thousands of students are enrolled at ASU, with hundreds of faculty members to help them to realise their academic ambitions. The university has always prioritised scientific research, which has given it a competitive edge in recruitment. In a recent independent study into research volume, three ASU professors ranked in the world’s top two percent. ASU established the ICE innovation and entrepreneurship centre, a creative space where students and alumni can turn concepts into opportunities. The centre also serves as an incubator, with technical manufacturing capability and hands-on experience provided through partnerships with local and international businesses. The surrounding community benefits from the alignment of study programmes with local needs. ASU nursing students gain practical experience and provide vital services at the university’s partner hospital. Engineering students collaborate on climate-change solutions at ASU’s Renewable Energy Centre, which features a commercial-scale solar power system and weather station. The CFI.co judging panel presents Applied Science Private University, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Most Innovative Community Impact Research University (Middle East).