Drexel University Admissions 2026: Requirements & Deadlines

Latest Update For Fall 2025, the International Gateway program deadline is July 31, 2025, while the undergraduate Winter intake deadline is October 1, 2025.

Drexel University offers three intakes annually, Fall, Winter, and Spring, across more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. 

Drexel University received over 37,300 applications for the class of 2028. The university uses a primarily rolling admission process, though each intake has set deadlines, making it a flexible option for those looking to study in the USA. The acceptance rate was 78–79%, with a yield rate of 8–10% for this class.

For undergraduate admissions, the application fee is USD 65 (INR 5K), and all applicants must submit academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 90, or Duolingo 115), and recommendation letters. Median class size is 19, with a first-year retention rate of 90%.

Here's a quick overview of the Drexel University admission facts you should know before applying:

Feature	Details
Established	1891
Campuses	Philadelphia campus Pennsylvania campus
Intakes	Fall Winter Spring
Rankings	QS World Rankings 2025: #721-730  THE World Rankings 2025: #351-400  U.S. News National Rankings 2025: #86
Acceptance Rate	78%
Student-Faculty Ratio	9:1
Degrees Offered	Bachelor's degree: 80+ Master's degree: 120+
Popular Programs	Master of Business Administration (MBA) Master of Science in Computer Science  Bachelor of Science in Engineering Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Now that you are familiar with the Drexel University general admission details, let's look at their admission dates. 

Drexel University Admission Dates

Drexel University offers three primary intakes for international students: Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring (April). 

The Fall intake features Early Action and Early Decision deadlines on November 1, 2025, while the Regular Decision deadline is January 15, 2026. The Winter intake application deadline is October 1, 2025. 

Let's look more closely at the specifics for all three intakes. 

Fall Intake (September)

The Fall intake is Drexel's primary entry point, enrolling the largest number of students and providing access to the full range of undergraduate programs, scholarships, and campus resources. 

For undergraduate international students, Early Action and Early Decision deadlines are November 1, 2025, while the Regular Decision deadline is January 15, 2026. 

Graduate program deadlines vary, with the final deadline for some programs, such as the part-time MBA, on September 1, 2025.

Below is a table briefly explaining the fall 2025 intake dates:

Program Type	Application Open	Application Closes
Undergraduate (International)	August 2025	November 1, 2025
UG International (Regular Decision)	August 2025	January 15, 2026
UG International Transfer	NA	June 14, 2025 (I-20 deadline) July 15, 2025 (final consideration)
Graduate (General)	Varies by program	April 1, 2025 (priority) September 1, 2025 (final)

Drexel University also provides opportunities for mid-year entry through the Winter intake.

Winter Intake (January)

The Winter intake allows students to begin their studies in January and is ideal for those who need extra time to prepare or miss the Fall deadlines. The Winter term application and I-20 deadline for international undergraduate applicants is November 1, 2025,  while most graduate program deadlines for Winter entry are August 1, 2025.

Below is the table mentioning all winter intake deadlines: 

Program Type	Application Open	Application Closes
Undergraduate (International)	August 2025	November 1, 2025
UG International Transfer	August 2025	November 1, 2025 (I-20 deadline)
Graduate (General)	September 2024	August 1, 2025

For those who miss the Fall and Winter deadlines, Drexel's Spring intake offers another entry point.

Spring Intake (April/March)

The Spring intake is ideal for students seeking flexibility or those who need additional preparation time. The Spring term application deadline for undergraduate international applicants is January 31, 2026, with the I-20 deadline on January 24, 2026. Graduate deadlines for Spring entry are September 2, 2025.

Here’s a table with the spring college application due dates: 

Program Type	Application Open	Application Closes
Undergraduate (International)	November 2025	January 31, 2026
UG International Transfer	November 2025	January 24, 2026 (I-20 deadline)
Graduate (General)	NA	September 2, 2025

Note: Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis. It is important to verify the exact deadlines and requirements directly with your specific program or school, as they may vary.

Next, let's understand the admissions process while applying for Drexel University.

Drexel University Admission Process

Drexel University evaluates international applicants based on academic performance, standardized test scores, English language proficiency, letters of recommendation, and essays.

Undergraduate applicants can apply through Early Decision (binding), Early Action (non-binding), or Regular Decision. Graduate applicants follow program-specific deadlines and requirements. The application fee is USD 65 (INR 5K).

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the Drexel University admission process and documents required for international students: 

Step 1. Select Program and Review Requirements:

Choose a bachelor’s or master’s program and verify eligibility criteria, including academic prerequisites and English language requirements.

Step 2. Prepare Application Materials:

Gather required documents: academic transcripts, standardized test scores, English proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo), personal statement/essay (250–650 words) outlining your career goals, two letters of recommendation, and a resume (for graduate applicants).

Step 3. Submit Application:

Apply online via the Common App, Coalition App, or Drexel’s application portal before the deadline. Pay the non-refundable application fee of USD 65 (INR 5K).

Step 4. Application Review and Decision:

Drexel reviews applications and issues decisions as per the selected admission plan. Early Decision applicants receive binding offers, while Early Action and Regular Decision applicants have until May 1 to confirm acceptance.

Step 5. Accept Offer and Pay Tuition:

Upon receiving an offer, confirm your acceptance and pay the required tuition deposit to secure your place.

Step 6. Visa Application:

After accepting the offer, request the Form I-20 from Drexel and apply for a US study visa. Prepare and submit the following for your student visa application:

• Form I-20 issued by Drexel University
• Passport-size photographs
• Valid passport (biographical information page)
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsorship letters)
• Medical insurance
• Immunization records
• Proof of English proficiency

Schedule and attend your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Step 7. Pre-Arrival Preparation:

Arrange travel, accommodation, and orientation as per Drexel's guidelines for new international students.

Begin your Drexel University application with confidence. Book a free one-on-one counseling session with an upGrad expert for personalized advice on requirements, deadlines, and submission.

Now that you have explored the admission procedure, let's understand the admission process for the MBA at Drexel University. 

Drexel University MBA Admissions

Drexel University's LeBow College of Business offers a highly flexible MBA in the USA for early- to mid-career professionals. The full-time MBA can be completed in 12, 15, or 18 months, with options for STEM courses and internships. 

For Fall 2025, the full-time MBA application deadline was April 1, 2025 (Closed), while the part-time MBA deadline is September 1, 2025.

Let's explore the details of MBA course eligibility criteria.

MBA Admission Requirement 

The Drexel LeBow MBA admission process is highly detailed, requiring applicants to have a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.  While work experience is preferred (1–4 years), it is not mandatory.

Below is a detailed table of requirements and criteria for Drexel University Admission to the MBA. 

Requirement Criteria	Details
Academic Requirements	Four-year bachelor’s degree from accredited institution.
Minimum GPA/Percentage	3.0/4.0 (85%)
Standardized Tests	GMAT/GRE, optional
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 6.5 Duolingo: 115
Additional Documents	Resume/CV Statement of Purpose Letters of Recommendation

Drexel University also offers scholarships for MBA students, making the program more accessible for domestic and international applicants. Let's explore them:

MBA Scholarships

Drexel LeBow offers competitive MBA scholarships in the USA, most of which are automatically considered upon application. Some signature MBA scholarships include the Alumni Merit Scholarship and awards for underrepresented minorities. 

Scholarship consideration is based on your admissions application, focusing on academic achievement, work experience, and GMAT/GRE scores. 

The table below outlines the key MBA scholarships: 

Scholarship	Type	Details
Alumni Merit Scholarship	Merit-Based	Eligibility: Automatic consideration for MBA/MS applicants; academic excellence, work experience. Benefits: Partial tuition waiver (amount varies).
LeBow College Underrepresented Minority Scholarship	Merit/Work-Based	Eligibility: MBA applicants from underrepresented backgrounds, such as racial and ethnic groups.  Benefits: Partial tuition waiver
Drexel Lifelong Learner Award	Alumni	Eligibility: Drexel alumni applying to participating graduate programs. Benefits: 30% tuition discount

Note: No separate application is required; all applicants are automatically considered based on their admissions materials

After an MBA, a Master's of Science (MS) program attracts diverse students. Let's understand the MS admission requirements for Drexel University. 

Drexel University MS Admissions

Drexel University's MS programs are designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals seeking specialized expertise across STEM, business, and interdisciplinary fields. With more than 120 graduate programs, applications are accepted for Fall, Winter, and Spring intakes, with most programs operating on a rolling admissions basis but observing strict priority and final deadlines.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the MS in USA eligibility at Drexel University:

MS Admission Requirement 

Applicants must submit a four-year bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0, English proficiency scores (TOEFL iBT 90, IELTS 6.5, Duolingo 115), a professional resume, and two letters of recommendation. 

GRE/GMAT scores are optional for most programs, but may strengthen the application for competitive tracks.

Let’s break down these requirements in detail: 

Requirement Criteria	Details
Academic Qualification	Four-year bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
Minimum GPA	3.0/4.0
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: 90 IELTS: 6.5 Duolingo: 115 PTE: 61
Standardized Tests	GRE/GMAT optional
Specializations Offered	MS in Computer Science MS in Business Analytics MS in Business Information Technology MS in Cybersecurity MS in Economics MS in Biomedical Engineering MS in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning MS in Data Science
Additional Document	Resume/CV Statement of Purpose Letters of Recommendation
Application Deadlines (Fall 2025)	September 1, 2025

Note: All international applicants must also provide proof of financial support and may be required to participate in an interview for select programs.

Before applying for admission to MS studies, here are some scholarship options that Drexel offers to support graduate students.

MS Scholarships

Drexel University offers scholarships for MS students, including the Dean’s Scholarship, specialized departmental awards, and unique fellowships for biomedical and STEM disciplines. 

Most scholarships are awarded automatically based on your application, no separate application is required for the main institutional awards.

The table below outlines major scholarships for MS courses: 

Scholarship	Type	Details
Dean’s Scholarship	Merit-Based	Eligibility: Domestic/international MS applicants; on-campus study; minimum GPA 3.0. Benefits: Partial tuition waiver (varies).
Drexel-Kaplan Tuition Grant	Merit/Need-based	Eligibility: MS applicants who completed Kaplan GRE/GMAT prep. Benefits: Tuition credit up to USD 1,200 (INR 1.03L)
Fulbright Scholarship	External/Merit	Eligibility: For International students Benefits: Up to full funding

Now, let’s look at the Drexel University admission requirements for the MBBS course.

Drexel University: MBBS Admissions

Drexel University’s College of Medicine offers an MD (Doctor of Medicine) program, a four-year medical school program, not a bachelor's degree in medicine and surgery. The program is designed for U.S. citizens and permanent residents who want to study medicine in the USA. 

With an average incoming GPA of 3.69 and an average MCAT score of 511, Drexel’s MD admissions are among the most competitive in the country. 

Let's examine the specific admission requirements for Drexel University’s MD program.

MBBS/MD Admission Requirement 

For medical courses at Drexel, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and complete the MCAT within three years of application. 

Drexel does not accept international applicants for the MD program, only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible.

The table below outlines the Drexel university admission requirements for MD program: 

Admission Requirement	Details
Degree	Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution
GPA	3.69
Citizenship	U.S. citizen or permanent resident only
Bachelor’s Degree (for MD)	Required, with at least 30 credit hours of graded science coursework from a U.S. or Canadian institution.
Standardized Tests	MCAT: 511
Required Science Coursework	Bachelor's in Biology (1yr) General Chemistry (2yr) Physics (1 course) Statistics English Social Sciences
Casper Assessment	Mandatory for all applicants; must complete the CASPer test for application eligibility.
Additional Document	Resume/CV Statement of Purpose Letters of Recommendation
Clinical/Service Experience	Strongly recommended; meaningful clinical and community service experiences.

Drexel University offers a range of scholarships for medical students, primarily merit-based and need-based, to help offset tuition and living expenses. Let’s have a look at it.

MBBS/MD Scholarships

Drexel provides institutional scholarships and need-based grants to eligible medical students. All accepted students are automatically considered for merit scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, and service. 

Need-based aid is available to US citizens and permanent residents who submit the required financial documentation.

Here's a table mentioning key scholarships for MBBS/MD offered by Drexel University: 

Scholarship	Type	Details
Drexel College of Medicine Merit Scholarship	Merit-Based	Eligibility: Outstanding academic record, leadership, service. Benefits: Partial tuition waiver (amount varies)
Drexel Need-Based Grant	Need-based	Eligibility: Demonstrated financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Benefits: Partial tuition waiver (amount varies).

Note: All scholarships are credited toward tuition and do not require a separate application.

After exploring MBBS and business programs, let's explore other PG courses Drexel University offers. 

Drexel University: Other PG Courses Admission

Drexel offers more than 120 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs across its Philadelphia campuses, with options for full-time, part-time, and online study. 

These programs are designed for recent graduates and experienced professionals seeking advanced expertise in fields such as engineering, computing, public health, arts and sciences, law, education, and more.

Let’s examine the specific admission requirements for Drexel University’s PG courses.

Other PG Course Admission Requirements 

Admission to Drexel’s PG programs is competitive and program-specific. Applicants typically need a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0, and proof of English language proficiency. 

The table below outlines top requirements to study graduate programs at Drexel University:

Admission Requirement	Details
Academic Qualification	Four-year degree from accredited institution
Minimum GPA	3.0/4.0
Academic Transcripts	Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: 90 IELTS: 6.5 Duolingo: 115 PTE: 61
Standardized Tests	GRE/GMAT: Required for some programs
Additional Document	Resume/CV Statement of Purpose Letters of Recommendation

Note: The university has minimum guidelines, but your program may have higher or additional requirements.

Next, let’s shift our focus towards Drexel University’s undergraduate admissions. 

Drexel University Bachelor's Admission

Drexel University offers over 100 undergraduate programs for high-demand jobs in the USA. The College of Arts and Sciences alone features 20 undergraduate majors, 40+ minors, and 14 certificate programs, with options for accelerated and dual-degree tracks.

However, let’s examine what makes Drexel University particularly advantageous for undergraduate students.

Advantages of Getting into Drexel University 

Drexel university ranking is #86 in the 2025 U.S. News National Universities category and is consistently listed among the Top 40 Comprehensive Research Universities in the U.S. by the Department of Education.

Beyond rankings, Drexel University is one of the largest and oldest co-op programs in the US where students gain up to 18 months of paid, full-time work experience before graduation. 

Here are some key advantages of taking admission into Drexel University’s bachelor’s program: 

• Extensive Program Choice: With over 100 majors and as many minors, Drexel offers unmatched flexibility for students to explore and combine academic interests.
• Experiential Learning & Co-op: Drexel’s signature cooperative education program allows students to gain up to 18 months of paid, full-time work experience before graduation, partnering with Fortune 500 companies and leading organizations.
• Faculty Expertise: Classes are taught by accomplished faculty, many of whom are active professionals in their fields, ensuring that students receive current, industry-relevant instruction.
• Accelerated and Dual-Degree Options: High-achieving students can pursue accelerated programs, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in less time, or participate in early assurance programs for medicine and law.
• Career Preparation: Drexel’s hands-on approach and strong employer connections result in high placement rates and competitive starting salaries for graduates.

Next, let's understand the detailed admission requirements for Drexel University’s bachelor’s programs.

Admission Requirements

For Drexel University courses admission, applicants must submit an official high school transcript demonstrating a strong academic record, particularly in mathematics (three years: algebra I, algebra II, geometry), science (at least one year of laboratory science: biology, chemistry, or physics), and English. A minimum GPA of 3.5 is recommended. 

Here’s a table with clear details on Drexel University’s bachelor’s admission criteria. 

Requirement	Details
High School GPA	3.5
Academic Transcripts	Official transcripts sent directly from high school
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: 90 IELTS: 6.6 Duolingo: 110-120 PTE: 61
Standardized Tests	Test-optional; SAT: 1200–1400 ACT: 26–31
Science Prerequisite	At least one year of laboratory science (biology, chemistry, or physics)

Note: Admission requirements and minimum scores may vary by program; always check the specific program page on Drexel University’s official website for the latest details.

As you prepare your application and gather required documents, it’s also essential to consider the financial support available to undergraduate students at Drexel University.

Bachelor's Scholarships 

The Drexel Merit Scholarship is the most prominent, with awards up to $43,000 (INR 37L) per year for the 2025–2026 academic year, renewable for the duration of your undergraduate program if you maintain a 2.0 GPA and full-time enrollment.

Most scholarships are awarded automatically based on your admissions application, and many are renewable for up to 12 academic terms as long as you maintain full-time status and a minimum GPA.

The table below summarizes key undergraduate fully-funded scholarship options: 

Scholarship	Type	Details
Drexel Merit Scholarship	Merit-Based	Eligibility: First-year and transfer applicants. Benefits: Up to USD 43,000 (INR 37L) per year
Drexel International Scholarship	Merit/service-based	Eligibility: Select first-year international students. Benefits: Amount varies
Maguire Scholarship	Merit/service-based	Eligibility: First-year applicants from Maguire High Schools Benefits: Amount varies
Athletic Scholarships	Athletic	Eligibility: Varsity athletes; coach nomination required. Benefits: $1,000 to full tuition

Note: Most scholarships are applied only during class terms (not during co-op) and require continued eligibility.

Besides academics, Drexel University ensures that every student has access to a strong network of resources designed to improve academic achievement, personal growth, and career readiness.

Drexel University Student Support Services

Drexel University’s student support services are not just comprehensive, they are specifically designed to equip students with relevant skills and professional connections from the moment they enroll.

The university’s Steinbright Career Development Center is a nationally recognized hub for career and cooperative education services, integrating professional development into every stage of the student journey. 

Here’s how Drexel’s support services stand out:

• Academic Advising: Every student is paired with a dedicated academic advisor who offers personalized guidance on course selection, USMLE preparation, and residency applications, starting from orientation through graduation.
• Career Services: The Steinbright Career Development Center provides career counseling, resume workshops, job search assistance, and access to Drexel’s renowned co-op program, connecting students with top employers for real-world experience.
• Counseling and Health Services: Drexel’s Counseling Center offers confidential mental health counseling, crisis intervention, and wellness workshops, while Student Health Services provides medical care, immunizations, and health education.
• International Student Support: The Office of International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) assists international students with F-1/J-1 visa compliance, OPT/CPT guidance, cultural adjustment workshops, and dedicated orientation for international medical students.
• Disability Resources: The Office of Disability Resources ensures equal access by coordinating academic accommodations, assistive technology, and support for students with documented disabilities, ensuring compliance with ADA standards.
• Tutoring and Academic Enrichment: The Center for Learning and Academic Success Services (CLASS) offers free tutoring, academic coaching, and workshops on study skills, time management, and exam preparation.
• Student Organizations and Leadership: With over 300 student organizations and leadership programs, Drexel fosters community engagement, personal development, and opportunities for students to pursue their interests beyond the classroom.