Drexel University

Drexel University operates across three main campuses: University City Campus, Center City Campus, and Queen Lane Campus. All three campuses cater to a total of over 21,153 students.  Each serves a distinct academic and professional purpose. 

The details below show how each campus contributes to the education system in the USA, student life and academic training.

• University City Campus:
  • Academic Hub: Hosts the majority of Drexel's academic colleges, administrative offices, and student residences.​
  • Historic Main Building: Established in 1891, it remains central to university operations.​
  • Steinbright Career Development Center: Provides career services and co-op program support.​
  • Recreation Center: Features facilities like an indoor rock-climbing wall, swimming pool, and fitness areas.​
• Center City Campus:
  • Health Sciences Focus: Home to the College of Nursing and Health Professions and the College of Medicine.​
  • Facilities: Includes lecture halls, outpatient clinics, and research laboratories.​
• Queen Lane Campus:
  • Medical Education: Primarily used for medical and graduate health sciences education.​
  • Facilities: Features lecture halls, laboratories, and the Independence Blue Cross Medical Simulation Center.​

With campus options covering a broad range of disciplines and industries, you can tailor your academic experience to your career goals.

Now, let’s move ahead to understand how Drexel University performs in global and national rankings.

Drexel University shows varied results across global rankings. It climbed from 98 to 86 in the U.S. News rankings between 2024 and 2026. However, its QS ranking placed it in the 711–720 band for 2026, and THE rankings dropped from 301–350 to 351–400 during the same period.

Below is a detailed table comparing Drexel University’s rankings across three major sources over the last three years. 

While university-wide rankings offer a broad picture, subject-specific rankings give a sharper view of academic strengths. Drexel performs well in several disciplines, especially engineering and health sciences.

Top Course Wise Ranking 2026

Drexel University’s engineering and nursing programs hold strong positions in global and national rankings. For example, its nursing program ranks 74th in the U.S. News rankings 2025.

The following table breaks down Drexel’s rankings in key subjects according to respected ranking bodies.

Want to know where Drexel stands on your subject of choice globally or nationally? Visit our Drexel University ranking page to get a complete ranking overview. 

Next, get a clear view of how Drexel University handles admissions and what to expect in 2026.

Drexel University maintains an acceptance rate of around 78%. It’s moderately competitive as compared to other institutions like University of Mississippi, which has a 98% acceptance rate. While gaining admission is achievable, meeting academic benchmarks, student visa requirements, and submitting a strong application is essential. 

To begin, review the standard eligibility criteria and materials needed for a complete application.

Admission Requirements

To apply to Duke, you must meet specific academic, exam, language, and visa criteria. Undergraduate applicants typically need a 3.75 GPA, while graduate programs expect a GRE score of around 310 or a good GMAT score of 570. For English proficiency, a TOEFL score of 90 or IELTS 6.5 is standard. Once admitted, you’ll need a SEVIS Form I‑20 or DS‑2019 to begin your visa process.

You can start by reviewing the academic qualifications required for undergraduate and graduate programs.

Academic Qualifications

To qualify for admission, you must meet the minimum academic standards based on your level of study. For undergraduate programs, Duke typically expects a 3.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Graduate applicants should hold a four-year bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 GPA.

The table below outlines the academic criteria required for each level of study

Note: The scores listed above are average numbers. The actual score of specific programs may vary. 

Language Proficiency

If you’re an international applicant, you must prove your English language skills through approved tests. Duke generally expects a minimum score of 90 on the TOEFL or 6.5 on the IELTS to meet admission requirements.

The table below lists the average language scores accepted across different tests.

Note: The scores listed above are average numbers. The actual score of specific programs may vary. 

Competitive Exams

Standardized test scores help strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs. Duke applicants typically score between 1230–1430 on the SAT or 27–33 on the ACT for undergraduate admission. Graduate programs expect a GRE around 310 or a GMAT score near 570.

The table below presents the average score range accepted across major exams.

Note: The scores listed above are average numbers. The actual score of specific programs may vary. 

Visa Requirements

To study at Duke, you must secure an J-1 or F‑1 visa. Once admitted, you’ll receive the SEVIS Form I‑20 or DS‑2019, which is required for the visa process. You’ll also need documents like your passport, admission letter, and financial proof.

The table below explains the key requirements for obtaining your student visa.

After understanding the academic and documentation requirements, it’s important to keep an eye on application timelines.

Drexel University is known for its strong academic foundation paired with real-world learning. With over 200+ degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, the university blends classroom education with professional experience through its signature co-op model.

You’ll find a variety of programs designed to match different academic goals and career directions. Below are the major categories Drexel University focuses on.

• STEM Programs: Includes Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, and Biological Sciences. For example, the BS in Computer Engineering integrates lab training with real-world industry projects.
• Business and Management:  Drexel’s LeBow College of Business offers degrees like MBA, MS in Business Analytics, and BS in Marketing. The MBA program emphasizes data-driven leadership.
• Health Sciences: Programs include Nursing, Public Health, and Biomedical Engineering. The College of Nursing and Health Professions is ranked nationally.
• Arts and Design: Courses like Graphic Design, Architecture, and Film & Television Production are offered through the Antoinette Westphal College. Students build strong portfolios through co-op placements.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Includes Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Communication. These programs develop analytical and research skills required for public service and academic careers.
• Law and Policy: Drexel’s Kline School of Law offers JD and Master’s of Law with specialized tracks in health law and intellectual property law.
• Education and Counseling: Programs such as MS in Education Management and MS in Applied Behavior Analysis prepare students for leadership roles in schools and clinical settings.

With flexible study options, co-op placements, and professionally aligned curricula, Drexel prepares you to turn academic knowledge into career success.

Studying at Drexel involves both tuition and living costs, depending on your program and lifestyle. However, the $62,462 (INR 53.7L) tuition fee at Drexel is higher than the national average of $47,890 (INR 41L).  

Understanding the total cost of studying at Drexel, including tuition and living expenses, is crucial for financial planning.

Below is an outline of tuition fees for major programs offered at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

In addition to tuition, you must budget for housing, food, transport, and other expenses. These costs vary depending on whether you live on or off campus.

Cost of living in the USA in Philadelphia is lower as compared to other major U.S. cities, but expenses can still add up. You should plan your budget based on accommodation type, food preferences, transport, and health insurance. Also, you can cover these expenses by working part-time, earning around $10 to $15 (INR 855 to INR 1280) per hour. 

Below is an estimate of typical living costs for Drexel students.

Note: The amounts in INR are calculated according to a conversion rate of 85.57, which may vary from time to time. 

The cost of living varies in different cities and according to lifestyle choices. You can calculate yours using upGrad’s cost of living calculator. 

Once you know the expenses, the next step is to explore scholarships that can ease your financial burden.

Drexel University stands out for its strong financial aid coverage. All enrolled students receive some form of aid, placing it among the top 30% of U.S. institutions for financial support. 

The average net price after scholarships and grants is $48,061 (INR 41L) for students receiving need-based assistance. It makes it easier for the students to cover tuition fees and education related expenses. 

To start, explore internal scholarships offered directly by Drexel based on merit, need, or program-specific qualifications.

Internal Scholarships

Drexel University awards a range of scholarships at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Undergraduate students receive an average of $54,766 (INR 46.8L) in financial aid, placing the university in the top 5% nationwide for undergrad assistance. Graduate students receive an average of $36,234 (INR 31L), placing Drexel in the top 25% for that category.

Below is a table highlighting key internal fully-funded scholarships available to students.

In addition to internal funding, you can benefit from scholarships provided by external agencies and organizations.

External Scholarships

As an international applicant, you can access several funding options beyond Duke. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program covers full tuition and living costs for eligible graduate students. Other global opportunities, like the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship, support candidates from developing nations.

Check the table below for examples of widely accessible external fully-funded scholarships in USA.

With funding options in place, you should now assess what Drexel delivers in terms of employment outcomes.

Drexel University has a career-focused model that produces strong employment results. Within a year of graduation, 96.9% of undergraduates are either employed or enrolled in further studies. This success is tied to the university’s structured co-op programs, dedicated career services, and deep employer connections.

Below, you’ll find a set of facts that provide a snapshot of Drexel’s placement ecosystem. These figures show how students benefit from both academic preparation and practical industry exposure.

• Job Offers at Graduation – 61% of job-seeking graduates received at least one offer by the time they graduated. This reflects employer confidence in Drexel talent.
• Job Satisfaction Rate – 92% of graduates in full-time roles reported satisfaction with their current positions, indicating strong alignment between skills and opportunities.
• Field Relevance – 89% of full-time employed graduates work in areas closely related to their Drexel field of study.
• Average Starting Salary – Drexel graduates earn an average of $71,121 (INR 60L) annually one year after completing their degree. This is 11% above the national average.
• Top Salary Rank in State – Drexel ranks 8th out of 120 Pennsylvania institutions for median graduate earnings a decade after entry.
• Co-op Participation – 5,763 students participated in Drexel’s co-op program, gaining hands-on work experience during their studies. 98.69% of co-op students were employed during the academic year, reflecting the program’s strong industry connections and effectiveness.
• Employer Engagement – Over 1,900 employers offered co-op roles, helping students build strong networks.
• Job Offers via Co-op – 46.1% of co-op participants received full-time job offers from their co-op employers, showing the value of these placements.
• Median Co-op Salary – The median salary for a six-month, paid full-time co-op position was $20,000 (INR 17L).
• LeBow College Graduates – Business graduates earned an average of $71,333 (INR 61L), with 88% employed and 8% pursuing further studies.
• Kline School of Law – 90.7% of the class of 2023 secured full-time, long-term roles requiring bar admission or JD-level credentials.

Let’s see which are the top recruiters that offer jobs to graduates of Drexel universities. 

Top Recruiters

Drexel University’s strong industry ties and co-op education model attract a wide range of employers across sectors. Companies regularly recruit Drexel graduates for full-time roles and internships due to their hands-on training and real-world experience. This consistent industry presence boosts career opportunities in fields like technology, healthcare, business, and engineering.

Below are some of the top recruiters that hire Drexel students across various programs.

• Amazon – Hires graduates for roles in software development, operations management, and data analysis.
• Google – Offers opportunities in product development, UX design, and AI research for tech-focused students.
• Johnson & Johnson – Recruits from health sciences and business programs for supply chain and pharmaceutical roles.
• Comcast – Philadelphia-based company hiring in digital media, data science, and corporate strategy.
• Goldman Sachs – Offers finance, risk management, and business analytics positions to business school graduates.
• GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) – Hires students for pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, and regulatory affairs roles.

Now that you know the employment outcomes, let’s explore in detail about the student life at Drexel University.

At Drexel University, student life is more than just academics; it’s about building connections, exploring new interests, and being part of a great community.

With over 250 recognized student clubs and organizations, you can find a group that matches your academic goals, cultural background, hobbies, or career plans. 

Below are some specific features that define campus life at Drexel.

• Student Organizations: Over 250 recognized student clubs and organizations cater to a wide array of interests, from academic and professional societies to cultural and recreational groups. ​
• First-Year Residency Requirement: Drexel mandates a two-year residency for first-year students. However, those whose permanent address is within a 10-mile radius of the University City campus may request an exemption to commute from home. ​
• On-Campus Housing: First-year students can choose from several residence halls, each offering unique living experiences:
  • Bentley Hall: Features modern amenities and communal spaces.​
    Canaries Hall: Located near dining facilities and academic buildings.​
    Kelly Hall: Offers traditional dormitory-style living.​
  • Millennium Hall: Known for its suite-style rooms.​
  • North Hall: Provides apartment-style living with shared kitchens.​
  • Race Street Residences: Situated close to recreational facilities.​
  • Towers Hall: Traditional shared double rooms with communal bathrooms.​
  • Van Rensselaer Hall: Apartment-style units with kitchens and living areas. ​
• Greek Life: The university hosts numerous fraternities and sororities that emphasize leadership, academic excellence, community service, and lifelong friendships. ​
• Diversity and Inclusion: Drexel is committed to fostering an inclusive community, supported by resources like the Student Center for Diversity and Inclusion (SCDI) and the Center for Inclusive Education and Scholarship (CIES), which offer multicultural and social justice education and training.
• DragonLink Platform: This online tool enables students to connect with organizations, discover upcoming events, and track their involvement in campus activities. 
• First-Year Experience: New students are encouraged to engage in various activities, including attending the Involvement Fair, participating in group exercise classes, and joining the DAC Pack to support Drexel's athletic teams. ​
• College-Specific Organizations: Individual colleges, such as the LeBow College of Business and the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, offer tailored student organizations that provide professional experiences and networking opportunities. ​
• Health and Wellness Organizations: Groups like Active Minds and NAMI on Campus focus on mental health awareness, education, and reducing stigma, contributing to a supportive campus environment. ​
• Sports and Fitness: Students can participate in various sports teams and fitness clubs, including basketball, biking, and running, promoting physical well-being and camaraderie. ​

Beyond campus life, Drexel has produced notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various industries.

Drexel University has more than 1,50,000 alumni. Its list includes leaders from computer science, government, arts, and business. Notable names include Paul Baran, a key figure in the development of the internet; Christopher Ferguson, a NASA astronaut; and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, an acclaimed author. Their careers reflect the university’s strong practical focus.

Below is a list of Drexel graduates who have excelled in various fields, demonstrating the university’s strong emphasis on practical learning and innovation.

Now that you know the most recognizable alumni of Drexel, let’s see how the university performs against other top universities. 

Choosing the right university depends on more than just rankings. It involves academics, affordability, outcomes, and student experience. 

When looking at global recognition, Drexel University holds a stronger position. It ranks #711-720 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, while the City College of New York is at #1001-1200 and Western Michigan University is placed in the #1201–1400 range.

The comparison table below will help you evaluate these three institutions across several key parameters.

Drexel University offers stronger global rankings and higher salary outcomes compared to CCNY and WMU. If you seek wide program options and career-driven results, Drexel stands out as the more competitive choice.

Meeting the right deadlines is key to securing your place at Duke. Undergraduate applicants must apply by November 1, 2025 for Early Decision or Early Action. For graduate programs, deadlines vary, PhD applications in Computer Science are due by December 15, 2024, while MS programs in Computing accept applications until July 15, 2025.

You can review the complete list of application deadlines based on program type below.

Looking to apply for a specific program and don’t know the deadlines? Visit Drexel University's admission page to get complete details on all the deadlines and admission requirements. 

With the admission process clear, now focus on the programs and academic choices Drexel offers.

Drexel University charges tuition based on program type and credit hours. For international students, fees range from $1,099 to $1,914 per credit hour (INR 94,469 to INR 1,64,526) and $20,014 per term (INR 17,20,448) for full-time undergraduate degrees. If you're planning to study in the U.S., here's a quick overview of the estimated tuition across major programs:

Now that you understand what Drexel offers, it’s time to assess how much it costs to study there.