Established in 1913, the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is the oldest inter-university network in the world. Today's ACU combines the expertise and reputation of over ninety years' experience with new and innovative programmes designed to meet the needs of universities in the 21st century.

The five hundred members are spread across five continents and they represent a diverse range of institutions; but there are also many similarities – not least of which are a common language, common values and similarities in their organisation and management. Commonwealth universities are therefore able, through the ACU, to network easily, extensively and fruitfully, sharing problems, solutions and good practice across a variety of higher education environments.

The ACU is a voluntary organisation, which is registered in England and Wales as a charity (number 314137) and is controlled by its member institutions through an elected Council. Her Majesty the Queen, the Head of the Commonwealth, is the Association's Patron.