The International University of Leadership USA established the American University of Leadership Marbella as part of its international expansion plan. The IUL has always been committed to providing high-quality education inspired by the success of its family members in higher education institutions. In 1998, the IUL started as a Training and Consulting group called AMS, based in Alexandria, Virginia. The group pioneered education for adults, which later became the foundation for the delivery of higher education. This led to the growth and development of the International University of Leadership (IUL), promoting cultural, educational, and economic advancement through affordable education.

In September 2010, the American University of Leadership obtained its Florida license from the Commission for Independent Education at the Florida Department of Education (CIE/FLDOE), License #4347, enabling the institution to offer Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate of Business Administration programs. In May 2017, the educational institution underwent a minor name change to become the International University of Leadership, and it is proud to continue serving students from Florida and around the world.