Drexel University Featured Image
  Universities  United States  Drexel University
Drexel University Logo

Drexel University

Philadelphia, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 21,732
  • Tuition Fee From$ 17,000
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength19,984
  • Global Diversity16%
  • Gender Ratio49 : 51

Overview

About

In 1891, renowned financier and philanthropist Anthony J. Drexel heeded the call for a new model of higher education and mapped the road that Drexel University still treads today. Drexel is a world-class integrated R1 research university and a major player in experiential education, located in the centre of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The institution blends academic quality with one of the nation's best cooperative education programmes through a novel approach to experiential learning. Currently, the university provides a wide range of degrees and courses divided into undergraduate, graduate, and professional programmes. 

 

The university has an in-class student-teacher ratio of 17:1 with approximately 14,000 students and 700 staff. Overseas students are welcome at the university, with 18% of them coming from six continents. As one of America’s 15 largest private universities, Drexel offers students several opportunities at every stage of their university life. Its global reputation has been founded on essential milestones such as prominence in experiential learning through Drexel Co-op, a legacy of academic technological firsts, and recognition as a model of best practices in translational, use-inspired research.

 

Drexel not only offers undergraduate and graduate programmes but also confers accredited degrees online and certificates. The university comprises several colleges including -

  • College of Arts & Sciences
  • School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, & Health Systems
  • Lebow College of Business
  • College of Computing & Informatics
  • School of Education
  • College of Engineering

 

Drexel creates an environment where students, teachers, and staff gain information and skills that they may utilise to make the world a more fair and equitable place. Drexel's dynamic curriculum blends world-class academics with real-world experience, allowing students to develop skills and prepare them for the challenges of an ever-changing world. Drexel distinguishes itself from other institutions through its renowned Co-op programme, which allows students to learn alongside professionals in their areas and observe directly how these innovators shape the professional world. Each of these events individually prepares Drexel Dragons (university students) to push the boundaries of what they are capable of doing as students, professionals, and individuals.

Ranking

Drexel University, founded in 1891, has experienced mixed results in recent rankings. In 2025, the institution saw a decline in its global standing, dropping to 721st in the QS World University Rankings from 601st in 2024. However, its national performance showed improvement in 2024, with the university climbing to 98th place in the U.S. News & World Report National University rankings, up from 105th in 2023. This advancement aligns with U.S. News & World Report's consistent recognition of Drexel as one of the top 100 universities in the United States. Meanwhile, Drexel maintained stability in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, holding the 301st position in both 2023 and 2024. These varied outcomes across different ranking systems highlight the complexities of global and national university assessments, while also demonstrating Drexel's efforts to enhance its academic standing, particularly within the United States.

 

Drexel University - QS Ranking 2025

In 2025, Drexel University will be ranked 721st globally according to the QS World University Rankings, marking a decrease in its international standing compared to 2024, when it was ranked 601st. This change suggests potential challenges or shifts in global perceptions of the university's academic quality and research impact. In 2023, Drexel held the 651st position globally, reflecting variations in its global ranking over recent years amidst competitive pressures in higher education.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

World University

651

601

721

 

Drexel University: US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Drexel University has shown improvement in the US News & World Report National University rankings, climbing to 98th place in 2024 from 105th in 2023. While its Global Universities ranking for 2024 is not yet available, the university maintained a relatively stable position in the low 350s in the previous two years.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Global Universities

354

352

-

National University

103

105

98

 

Drexel University: THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Drexel University has maintained its position in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, holding steady at 301st place in both 2023 and 2024. This represents a significant improvement from its 351st ranking in 2022, indicating the university's ongoing commitment to enhancing its global academic standing.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

351

301

301

 

Learn More About: Drexel University’s Admission

 

Drexel University - QS Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Biological Sciences

501

551

-

Engineering and Technology

-

501

-

Global MBA

201

251

-

Masters in Business Analytics

71

81

-

Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

351

401

-

Medicine

351

351

-

Physics and Astronomy

451

401

-

 

Drexel University - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Best Graduate Law Schools

81

78

80

Best Graduate Medical Schools

93

93

88

Best Graduate Nursing Schools

97

-

-

Biomedical Engineering PG

49

54

58

Chemical Engineering PG

52

56

60

Civil Engineering PG

50

48

51

Computer Engineering PG

66

58

57

Electrical Engineering PG

66

63

58

Entrepreneurship MBA

-

34

-

Graduate Business School

97

-

102

Mechanical Engineering PG

59

56

53

UG Business

106

86

84

UG Mechanical Engineering

30

-

-

 

Drexel University - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Arts and Humanities

401

401

501

Clinical and Health

401

501

251

Engineering

176

151

176

Law

-

201

201

PG Business and Economics

251

301

301

PG Computer Science

501

501

501

Psychology

201

251

176

 

Course Rankings

 

Drexel University, B.E. / B.Tech

Ranked by

2022

US News & World Report - UG Mechanical Engineering

30

 

Drexel University, BBA

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - UG Business

106

86

84

 

Drexel University, LL.M.

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

151

151

101

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Law Schools

-

81

78

THE (Times Higher Education) - Law

-

-

201

 

Learn More About: Drexel University’s Courses

M.A.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

401

401

501

 

MBA/PGDM

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Global MBA

201

201

251

US News & World Report - Entrepreneurship MBA

-

34

-

US News & World Report - Graduate Business School

97

-

102

 

MIM

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

71

71

81

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

251

301

301

 

MS

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

401

451

QS - Pharmacy and Pharmacology

-

301

-

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

-

251

351

QS - Biological Sciences

-

501

501

QS - Engineering and Technology

-

501

-

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Mathematics

-

401

-

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics

301

301

301

US News & World Report - Computer Engineering PG

-

66

58

US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG

-

66

63

US News & World Report - Mechanical Engineering PG

-

59

56

US News & World Report - Civil Engineering PG

-

50

48

US News & World Report - Chemical Engineering PG

-

52

56

US News & World Report - Biomedical Engineering PG

-

49

54

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

-

176

151

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

-

501

501

 

MSN

Ranked by

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Nursing

-

201

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Nursing Schools

97

-

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Medicine

351

351

351

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201

251

176

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Medical Schools

93

93

88

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

401

501

251

 

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

401

401

501

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

71

71

81

US News & World Report - UG Business

106

86

84

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

251

301

301

QS - Global MBA

201

201

251

US News & World Report - Entrepreneurship MBA

-

34

-

US News & World Report - Graduate Business School

97

-

102

 

Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

251

351

401

QS - Engineering and Technology

501

-

501

US News & World Report - Computer Engineering PG

66

58

57

US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG

66

63

58

US News & World Report - Mechanical Engineering PG

59

56

53

US News & World Report - Civil Engineering PG

50

48

51

US News & World Report - Chemical Engineering PG

52

56

60

US News & World Report - Biomedical Engineering PG

49

54

58

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

176

151

176

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

501

501

501

US News & World Report - UG Mechanical Engineering

30

-

-

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201

251

176

 

Law

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

151

151

101

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Law Schools

-

81

78

THE (Times Higher Education) - Law

-

-

201

 

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Pharmacy and Pharmacology

301

-

-

QS - Medicine

351

351

351

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Medical Schools

93

93

88

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

401

501

251

 

Nursing

Ranked by

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Nursing

-

201

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Nursing Schools

97

-

 

Science

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

401

451

QS - Biological Sciences

-

501

501

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Mathematics

-

401

-

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics

301

301

301

 

Biology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Biological Sciences

501

501

551

 

Biomedical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Biomedical Engineering PG

49

54

58

 

Business Analytics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

71

71

81

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

251

301

301

 

Chemical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Chemical Engineering PG

52

56

60

 

Civil Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Civil Engineering PG

50

48

51

 

Computer Science Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

501

501

501

 

Electrical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - Electrical Engineering PG

66

63

58

 

Entrepreneurship

Ranked by

2023

US News & World Report - Entrepreneurship MBA

34

 

Mathematics

Ranked by

2022

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Mathematics

401

 

Mechanical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

251

351

401

US News & World Report - Mechanical Engineering PG

59

56

53

US News & World Report - UG Mechanical Engineering

30

-

-

 

Physics

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Physics and Astronomy

-

401

451

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Physics

301

301

301

 

Pharmacy

Ranked by

2022

QS - Pharmacy and Pharmacology

301

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

201

251

176

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#721 - 730

-

2024

#721 - 730

#428

2022

#651 - 700

#352

Facilities

Drexel provides students with a warm, welcoming atmosphere based on inclusiveness, respect, and a strong desire to grow - both as a community and as individuals. Drexel students embrace all elements of University life while widening their perspectives, from engaging with fellow students through on-campus events to taking advantage of the countless opportunities its location inside the city of Philadelphia holds.

 

Drexel University facilities help students explore their interests and pursue their passions, with over 300 student clubs and organisations, over 35 fraternities and sororities, and a wide variety of visual and performing arts ensembles and attractions. For those seeking additional athletic opportunities, Drexel Dragons are encouraged to join Division I, club, or intramural sports, as well as use the university’s extensive indoor and outdoor facilities. Some of the services and amenities offered at Drexel include -

  • Activities & Student Organizations
  • The Drexel Library
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Arts & Culture
  • Athletics-Recreation
  • University Housing & Dining
  • Health & Wellness
  • Campus Safety
  • Community Service

Notable Alumni

Susan Seidelman
Susan Seidelman
American Film Director
Chuck Barris
Chuck Barris
American Film Producer
Moshe Kam
Moshe Kam
American Engineer

Courses

Admission

In 1891, prominent financier and philanthropist Anthony J. Drexel responded to the need for a new approach to higher education, establishing the foundation for what is now Drexel University. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel is recognised as a leading integrated R1 research university and a significant contributor to experiential education. The institution combines academic excellence with one of the nation’s top cooperative education programmes, offering a unique model of experiential learning. Today, Drexel provides a diverse array of degrees and courses across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programmes.

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

Applying to your desired university requires a fair portion of work on your behalf, even before you start applying. Pre-preparation of crucial documents and degree percentages can decide your course of action. 

Entry Requirements

Drexel University entry requirements differ for every programme. They include specific academic qualifications, submitting a portfolio of your work, or attending an audition. It is crucial to review the entry requirements for your chosen programme and confirm that you meet them before applying. 

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

  1. Official Academic Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
  2. Proof of English Language Proficiency (for international students):
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90
    • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115
  3. Resume or Current CV: Include a detailed resume outlining academic and extracurricular achievements.
  4. Personal Statement or Essay: Write a personal statement that reflects your motivations and goals.
  5. Letters of Recommendation: Submit one or more letters of recommendation from teachers or professionals who can speak to your qualifications.
  6. Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional but can be submitted if available.
  7. GRE/GMAT Scores: Required for certain graduate programmes if applicable.

Graduate Entry Requirements

  1. Official Academic Transcripts: Provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
  2. Proof of English Language Proficiency (for international students):
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90
  3. Letters of Recommendation: Generally, two or three letters of recommendation are required.
  4. Personal Statement: A statement outlining your academic and professional goals.
  5. Standardised Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores may be required for specific graduate programmes.

Additional Notes

  • GPA Requirements: Undergraduate applicants typically need an average GPA of 3.81 for first-year students and 3.34 for transfer students. Graduate applicants usually need a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Programme-Specific Requirements: Some programmes may have additional prerequisites or requirements, so it’s essential to check the specific programme details.

Drexel University documents fall in line with the entry requirements. Students are still advised to stay updated with the current requirements as per their programme. At UniScholars, our experts guide students through every stage of their overseas education. 

 

Eligibility

Drexel University eligibility criteria is that prospective students must meet specific criteria based on their academic level:

Undergraduate Eligibility Requirements

  1. High School Diploma: Applicants must have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.
  2. GPA Requirement: First-year students typically need an average GPA of 3.81, while transfer students should have a minimum GPA of 3.34.
  3. Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional but can be submitted if available.
  4. English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
    • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115
  5. Additional Documents: Applicants must submit official transcripts, a resume or CV, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

Graduate Eligibility Requirements

  1. Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
  2. GPA Requirement: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is typically required for admission.
  3. Standardised Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain programmes, but many have waived this requirement.
  4. English Language Proficiency: International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through:
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
  5. Additional Documents: Applicants need to submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume or CV.

 

How To Apply To Drexel University?

Drexel University's admission process is somewhat streamlined, with distinct undergraduate and postgraduate programme procedures. If you're aiming to pursue either, the application processes are distinct but straightforward. Here is a step-by-step process for applying for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes:

Step 1: Prepare Your Application

  • Choose Your Application Type: You can apply using the Coalition Application or Drexel University's Admission Application. For first-year applicants, ensure you have only one active application on file.
  • Gather Required Documents: This includes official transcripts from all previously attended schools, standardised test scores (if applicable), a resume or CV, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

  • Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form online. There is a non-refundable application fee of $65.
  • Submit Application Materials: Ensure all required documents are submitted before the application deadline. Most programmes operate on a rolling admissions basis, so the sooner you complete your application, the sooner you will receive a decision.

Step 3: Application Review

  • Once your application and all supporting materials are received, your file will be reviewed by the admissions committee. You can track the status of your application through the Discover Drexel Portal.

Step 4: Admission Decision

  • You will receive an email notification once a decision has been made regarding your application. If accepted, you will be instructed to confirm your acceptance by submitting a deposit and an Intent to Enrol form.

Step 5: Enrollment Process

  • After confirming your acceptance, you will receive a Drexel email account and further instructions on registering for classes, ordering textbooks, and contacting your academic advisor.

 

Deadlines

Understanding the Drexel University deadlines is essential to ensure your submission is considered.

Undergraduate Deadlines

First-Year Applicants

  • Early Action: November 1
  • Regular Decision: January 15

Graduate Deadlines

MBA and Masters programmes follow a deadline of 8th March and 4th September as per Spring and Fall intakes.  

Students can connect with UniScholars to keep themselves updated regarding all the deadlines. Postgraduate applications typically have earlier deadlines than undergraduate programmes. 

 

Decision Dates

The decision dates for admissions vary depending on the type of application submitted. Applicants can expect to receive decisions within a few weeks after applying for undergraduate programmes. Drexel University typically communicates the outcome via email and updates the DU applicant portal accordingly.

 Decision and Early Action

  • Early Decision I: December 13
  • Early Action: Mid-January
  • Early Decision II: February 3

Regular Decision

  • Regular Decision: March 21

 

Drexel University Selection Criteria

Drexel University employs a holistic selection process for admissions, taking into account various criteria beyond just academic performance. Here are the key factors considered in the selection criteria:

Academic Performance

  • GPA Requirements: The average GPA for admitted first-year students is approximately 3.81, with most students ranking in the top 50% of their high school class. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is typically required for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.
  • Standardised Test Scores: While SAT and ACT scores are optional for undergraduate admissions, they can enhance an application. For graduate programmes, GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain fields.

Holistic Review

  • Letters of Recommendation: Applicants are generally required to submit letters of recommendation, which provide insight into their character and achievements.
  • Personal Statement or Essays: A personal statement or essay is often required, allowing candidates to express their motivations, goals, and unique experiences.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service is considered, reflecting a well-rounded applicant.

Additional Considerations

  • Interviews: Some programmes may require an interview as part of the admissions process.
  • Portfolio: For certain programmes, particularly in the arts, a portfolio may be required to showcase relevant work.

Diversity and Inclusivity

  • The university values a diverse student body and aims to create an inclusive environment, considering applicants from various backgrounds and experiences.

Overall, Drexel University seeks students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate a commitment to their community and personal growth. For the most accurate and detailed information, prospective students should refer to Drexel University's official admissions website.

 

Drexel University Acceptance Rate

Drexel University’s acceptance rate is approximately 83% for the Fall 2022 admissions cycle. This indicates that the university is moderately selective. Among early admissions, the acceptance rate was notably higher at 97.3%. The majority of admitted students had an average high school GPA of 3.81, with around 93% of them ranking in the top 50% of their class. Additionally, 37% of the newly admitted first-year students were in the top 10% of their high school class, demonstrating that while the acceptance rate is relatively high, Drexel still prioritises strong academic performance in its admissions process.

 

Fees

Drexel University fees can vary based on your programme of study and whether you are a home or international student. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of the costs and help you plan accordingly. Here's an overview of the fees:

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

  • Tuition: $60,663 per year (2023-2024)
  • Fees: $2,370 per year (includes $790 per term)
  • Total Tuition and Fees: $63,033 per year

Graduate Tuition and Fees

  • Tuition: Varies by programme, ranging from $20,388 to $59,649 per year
  • Fees: Varies, with an enrollment fee of $280 per term for full-time students and $140 per term for part-time students

Scholarship

Given below are some of the prominent scholarships offered at Drexel University 

 

Scholarship Name

Eligibility

Benefits

Drexel Global Scholars Programme

First-year international applicants intending to commence their studies in the fall and who have exhibited financial need. 

Full-tuition scholarship

Drexel Promise Scholarship

Transfer applicants seeking admission to a full-time, on-campus programme, having obtained an associate's degree from an accredited Community College in either New Jersey or Pennsylvania.

50% tuition scholarship

Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship

Full-time, on-campus transfer applicants

$500 per academic quarter.

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend Drexel University. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or in a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

 

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodation near the Drexel University, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.

Cost of Living

DU is located in Philadelphia, a lively and fascinating city. However, in addition to being world-class in commerce, art, and education, Philadelphia is also one of the country's first and biggest cities. It has a diverse range of neighbourhoods, from sleek metropolitan chic to tranquil residential rowhomes. University City, West Philly, Centre City, and Chinatown are among the popular yet cheap neighbourhoods that may be found across the city. Living in these student-populated areas will assist new students in finding residences of convenience that are affordable. The monthly cost of living in Philadelphia for international students in Philadelphia are listed below -

 

Particulars

Cost (Monthly)

Off-Campus Accommodation 

$ 1034

On-Campus Accommodation

$ 1306

Transportation

$ 142

Food Cost

$ 401

Utility Cost

$ 163

Entertainment

$ 56

Groceries

$ 60

Clothes

$ 118

Health Insurance

$ 80

Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation 

$ 2054

Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation 

$ 2326

Annual Cost of Living

$ 24648

FAQs