drexel-university

Drexel University: Programs, Admission, Tuition Fees, Scholarships and Study in the USA

Drexel University is a private research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. The university is known for its career-focused education, experiential learning and cooperative education model, which allows students to combine academic study with professional work experience.

Drexel offers undergraduate programs across a wide range of disciplines and postgraduate programs in areas including engineering, biomedical engineering, computing and information. Its Philadelphia location provides students with access to a major U.S. city and a diverse professional environment.

For international students, Drexel provides undergraduate pathways as well as degree programs designed to support academic and professional development.

At a Glance

Category	Details
University	Drexel University
Location	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Type	Private Research University
Study Levels	Undergraduate and Postgraduate
Main Campus	Philadelphia
Major Academic Areas	Engineering, Computing, Information, Biomedical Engineering, Business, Arts, Sciences and Health
Undergraduate Pathways	International pathway options available
International Students	Students from countries around the world
English Tests	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo, subject to program requirements
Academic Model	Career-focused and experiential
Key Feature	Cooperative education and experiential learning

About Drexel University

Drexel University is an urban research university in Philadelphia with a strong focus on experiential education. Its academic model combines classroom learning with practical experiences and professional preparation.

One of Drexel's best-known features is its cooperative education program, commonly called co-op. Depending on the program, students can alternate periods of academic study with professional work experiences.

The university offers a broad undergraduate education as well as specialized graduate study. For students interested in technology and engineering, Drexel provides programs through its engineering, computing and biomedical academic units.

Academic Programs

Drexel offers a broad range of undergraduate programs. For this university profile, the key academic focus includes undergraduate study and selected postgraduate programs in engineering, biomedical engineering and computing and information.

Engineering

Drexel's engineering programs cover a range of technical disciplines.

Undergraduate areas include:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Architectural Engineering

Engineering students can combine technical coursework with design projects, laboratory work, research and experiential learning.

Graduate engineering programs include master's and doctoral opportunities in selected engineering disciplines. Drexel's graduate engineering programs generally emphasize advanced technical knowledge, research and professional development.

Computer Engineering and Computing

Students interested in computing can explore areas involving both hardware and software.

Computer engineering study can cover:

• Computer systems
• Software
• Hardware
• Computer networks
• Programming
• Artificial intelligence
• Machine learning
• Computer architecture
• Operating systems
• Database systems
• Software engineering

Graduate computer engineering students can also explore specialized areas such as artificial intelligence, computer networks, computer graphics, databases and human-computer interaction.

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical engineering combines engineering, biology and medicine to address healthcare and human-health challenges.

Drexel's biomedical engineering programs cover areas such as:

• Biomedical systems
• Bioinformatics
• Biomaterials
• Tissue engineering
• Biomechanics
• Neuroengineering
• Medical imaging
• Biomedical technology
• Healthcare technologies

Graduate students can pursue advanced study through master's and doctoral-level programs.

Information and Computing

Students interested in computing and information can explore academic areas related to:

• Information systems
• Computing
• Data
• Information science
• Artificial intelligence
• Digital technologies
• Human-computer interaction
• Software
• Computational methods

These areas can prepare students for careers in technology, analytics, information management and digital innovation.

Business and Management

Drexel also offers undergraduate programs in business-related fields.

Students can explore areas such as:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Marketing
• Management
• Business analytics
• Entrepreneurship
• Economics
• Business information systems

Arts, Sciences and Other Disciplines

Drexel's undergraduate academic environment extends beyond technology and engineering.

Students can also explore subjects in:

• Arts
• Design
• Media
• Communication
• Psychology
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Environmental science
• Health
• Hospitality

Undergraduate Programs

Drexel offers undergraduate degrees across numerous academic disciplines.

Popular areas include:

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Computer Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Business
• Information
• Design
• Media
• Health
• Sciences
• Psychology

A major feature of many Drexel undergraduate programs is experiential learning. Depending on the degree, students may have opportunities to participate in co-op placements, research, projects and internships.

Undergraduate Pathway Programs

International students who need additional academic or English-language preparation may consider Drexel's pathway options.

Pathway programs are designed to help students transition into university-level study before progressing into a degree program.

Depending on the student's academic profile and chosen program, pathway study may provide additional support in areas such as:

• Academic English
• Study skills
• University preparation
• Academic coursework
• Cultural adjustment
• Learning strategies

Students should review the specific pathway available for their intended undergraduate program before applying.

Graduate Programs

For the scope of this profile, Drexel's postgraduate opportunities include selected programs in engineering, biomedical engineering, computing and information.

Graduate students can explore areas such as:

• Computer Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Bioinformatics
• Engineering disciplines
• Computing
• Information
• Data-related fields

Graduate program availability and requirements vary by department.

Drexel's engineering graduate programs include both master's and doctoral opportunities. Engineering applicants are generally expected to have a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent international qualification.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements depend on the level of study and program.

Undergraduate Applicants

International undergraduate applicants generally need to provide:

• Completed secondary education
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of English-language proficiency where required
• Passport information
• Application form
• Application fee
• Additional program-specific documents where applicable

Some programs may have additional requirements related to mathematics, science, portfolios or previous coursework.

Graduate Applicants

Graduate applicants generally need:

• A four-year bachelor's degree or equivalent
• Official academic transcripts
• English-language proficiency
• Personal statement or essay
• Resume
• Letters of recommendation where required
• Additional program-specific documents

Drexel Engineering generally recommends a minimum GPA of 3.0 for its master's and doctoral applicants, although individual programs may have additional requirements.

Requirements for International Students

International applicants should carefully prepare their academic and immigration documentation.

Typical requirements may include:

• Academic transcripts
• Degree or school certificates
• Passport
• English-language test scores
• Financial documents
• Application materials
• Program-specific documents

Students who require an F-1 visa must complete the applicable financial and immigration documentation after receiving admission.

International applicants may also be required to provide credential evaluations or certified translations depending on their academic documents and program.

Requirements for Indian Students

Indian students should prepare documents based on their intended study level.

Undergraduate Applicants

Typical documents may include:

• Class 10 certificate and academic records
• Class 12 certificate and academic records
• English-language test results
• Passport
• Additional documents requested by Drexel

Postgraduate Applicants

Postgraduate applicants generally need:

• Bachelor's degree certificate
• Official university transcripts
• English-language test results
• Passport
• Resume
• Personal statement
• Recommendation letters where required
• Program-specific documents

Students should confirm whether their academic documents require evaluation or official translation.

English-Language Requirements

International students who are not exempt from English-language testing must provide an accepted English-language qualification.

Commonly accepted tests include:

• IELTS
• TOEFL
• PTE
• Duolingo English Test

For many Drexel graduate engineering programs, the general minimum requirements include:

• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL: 90
• PTE: 61
• Duolingo: approximately 100–110 depending on the program

Some programs may have higher requirements or additional conditions.

English requirements for undergraduate applicants can differ from graduate requirements and should be checked for the intended program.

How to Apply

Step 1: Select Your Program

Choose an undergraduate program, pathway option or eligible postgraduate program that matches your academic background and career goals.

Step 2: Review the Requirements

Check the academic, English-language and program-specific requirements.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, passport information, test scores and other required documents.

Step 4: Complete the Application

Submit the appropriate Drexel application and provide all required information.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Pay the applicable non-refundable application fee if required.

Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload or arrange submission of official academic documents and other required materials.

Step 7: Track Your Application

Monitor your application for additional document requests or admission updates.

Step 8: Receive Your Admission Decision

If accepted, review the admission offer and complete the required next steps.

Step 9: Provide Financial Documentation

International students requiring immigration documents must provide evidence of sufficient financial support.

Step 10: Prepare for Your Visa

Complete the required immigration steps and prepare for the student visa process.

Step 11: Prepare for Arrival

Complete orientation, housing, health insurance and other pre-arrival requirements before beginning your studies.

Tuition Fees

Drexel's tuition varies by academic program and study level.

For the 2026–27 academic year, the estimated tuition and fees for a full-time international undergraduate student across three quarters are approximately USD 65,798. Additional costs include living expenses, books and other personal expenses.

Graduate tuition varies by college, program and enrollment structure. Students should review the latest cost information for their specific postgraduate program.

The overall cost of studying at Drexel should include:

• Tuition
• University fees
• Housing
• Food
• Health insurance
• Transportation
• Books and supplies
• Personal expenses

Philadelphia living costs should also be included when preparing a study budget.

Scholarships and Financial Support

Students may explore scholarships and other financial-support opportunities depending on their academic level and program.

Potential forms of support can include:

• Merit scholarships
• Academic awards
• Departmental funding
• Graduate assistantships
• Research opportunities
• Co-op earnings
• Other university funding

International students should research eligibility requirements and deadlines carefully because scholarships may have separate application procedures.

Research

Drexel is a research-focused university with opportunities across engineering, computing, biomedical science, health, business, design and other disciplines.

Research areas can include:

• Artificial intelligence
• Computer engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Bioinformatics
• Robotics
• Materials science
• Engineering systems
• Healthcare technology
• Data and computing
• Environmental research

Graduate and doctoral students can participate in faculty-led research and advanced projects.

Research and Innovation

Drexel's emphasis on experiential learning connects research with practical applications.

In engineering and biomedical fields, students can work on technologies related to:

• Healthcare
• Medical devices
• Biomedical systems
• Computing
• Artificial intelligence
• Robotics
• Engineering design
• Data analysis

Biomedical engineering research can include biomaterials, tissue engineering, biomechanics, neuroengineering, imaging and bioinformatics.

Campus and Facilities

Drexel's main campus is located in Philadelphia and provides students with academic, research and recreational facilities.

Students have access to:

• Classrooms
• Laboratories
• Libraries
• Computing facilities
• Research centers
• Study spaces
• Student centers
• Recreation facilities
• Dining facilities
• Career services

Engineering and technology students can use specialized laboratories and technical facilities associated with their academic programs.

Student Life

Drexel provides students with opportunities to participate in activities outside the classroom.

Students can join:

• Academic organizations
• Professional societies
• Cultural organizations
• Student clubs
• Sports
• Recreation
• Leadership programs
• Volunteer activities
• Career events
• International student activities

The university's Philadelphia location also provides access to a large urban environment with cultural, professional and recreational opportunities.

Living in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the largest cities in the United States and provides a diverse environment for university students.

Students can find:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Museums
• Parks
• Shopping
• Public transportation
• Cultural attractions
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Professional networking opportunities

The city's location on the U.S. East Coast also provides access to other major cities and business centers.

International Student Support

Drexel provides international students with services related to admissions, immigration, academics and student life.

Support can include:

• International admissions assistance
• Immigration advising
• Visa guidance
• Orientation
• Academic advising
• Cultural programs
• Student services
• Career support

International students can seek guidance throughout their studies to help manage academic and immigration responsibilities.

Career Opportunities

Drexel's experiential education model can help students develop professional experience while studying.

Depending on their program, students may pursue careers in:

• Software development
• Computer engineering
• Artificial intelligence
• Data and analytics
• Biomedical engineering
• Healthcare technology
• Engineering
• Business
• Finance
• Design
• Research
• Information technology

Co-op and internship opportunities can allow students to gain practical experience and build professional networks.

Post-Graduation Opportunities

International graduates may explore employment opportunities in the United States subject to applicable immigration regulations and eligibility.

Students in eligible programs may use practical training opportunities such as Optional Practical Training.

Graduates in technology, engineering, computing and biomedical fields may find opportunities across industries including technology, healthcare, engineering, pharmaceuticals, consulting and research.

Students should consult the appropriate international student advisers for current immigration and employment requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Drexel University good for international students?

Drexel offers international admissions support, pathway options, experiential learning and a diverse academic environment. Its Philadelphia location also provides access to a major U.S. city.

Where is Drexel University located?

Drexel University is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Does Drexel offer undergraduate programs?

Yes. Drexel offers undergraduate programs across engineering, computing, business, sciences, health, design, media and other disciplines.

Does Drexel offer postgraduate programs?

Yes. For the scope of this profile, relevant postgraduate options include selected programs in engineering, biomedical engineering, computing and information.

Does Drexel offer pathway programs?

Yes. Drexel provides pathway options for eligible international students who need additional academic or English-language preparation before progressing into degree study.

What IELTS score does Drexel require?

Requirements depend on the program. Many graduate engineering programs require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

What TOEFL score is required for Drexel graduate engineering programs?

Drexel Engineering generally requires a minimum TOEFL score of 90 for international graduate applicants.

Does Drexel accept Duolingo?

Yes. Duolingo is accepted for applicable international admission requirements, although the required score can vary by program.

What is the tuition fee at Drexel University?

For 2026–27, estimated international undergraduate tuition and fees for three quarters are approximately USD 65,798. Graduate costs vary by program.

Does Drexel offer biomedical engineering?

Yes. Drexel offers undergraduate and graduate study in biomedical engineering, including master's and doctoral options.

Does Drexel offer computer engineering?

Yes. Drexel offers undergraduate and graduate computer engineering programs covering hardware, software, systems and advanced computing topics.

Does Drexel offer engineering PhD programs?

Yes. Drexel offers doctoral programs in selected engineering fields, including architectural, chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, materials science and mechanical engineering.

What is Drexel known for?

Drexel is particularly known for experiential education and its cooperative education model, which integrates academic learning with professional experience.

Is Philadelphia a good city for international students?

Philadelphia is a large, diverse U.S. city with universities, businesses, cultural attractions and public transportation. It provides students with access to a broad urban environment.

Can international students work after graduation?

Eligible international students may have access to practical training opportunities subject to U.S. immigration rules and individual eligibility.

Does Drexel provide career support?

Yes. Students can access career-development resources, professional opportunities, internships and co-op experiences depending on their program.

Final Takeaway

Drexel University is a private research university in Philadelphia that combines academic education with experiential and career-focused learning. Its undergraduate programs cover a broad range of disciplines, while its specialized postgraduate offerings provide opportunities in engineering, biomedical engineering, computing and information.

For international students, Drexel offers pathway options, academic support and opportunities for practical experience. Its cooperative education model can be particularly valuable for students who want to combine classroom learning with professional exposure.

Students considering Drexel should carefully review the requirements of their specific program, expected tuition and living costs, pathway options, scholarship opportunities and career goals before applying.