AVL Boost is a fully integrated simulation software in the field of internal combustion engines. At the University of Debrecen, it has been roughly a year since the launch of the Partnership Program with AVL Advanced Simulation Technologies. Although 2020 made us face unusual and unexpected challenges, the use of Boost has begun both in research projects and in engineering courses. The software provides a wide range of applications in engine performance, tailpipe emissions and acoustics. It is inherently appropriate only for internal combustion engines including both spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines. However, with a link to other AVL software packages (e.g. Cruise or Fire), hybrid vehicles can be studied too. Boost enables the user to perform a solely computational approach, as well as the comparison of experimental findings with simulation results. The software offers a high level of flexibility of the fuel type and fuel composition, including the possibility to use both conventional and alternative fuels. Our paper provides an overview of the software including a general introduction, a review of selected publications from recent years and a discussion of the application of Boost, in engineering courses and student projects.