Frequently Asked Questions
Application Process
What are the admissions requirements for Drexel?
At Drexel University, we look for academically focused students who are driven to succeed. Our average student has a 3.5 GPA on an unweighted 4.0 scale and a combined score of 1207 on the Critical Reading and Math portions on the SAT. The average ACT score for admissions is a 27. The prerequisite courses that you need to take will depend on the program to which you are applying; see our Admission Prerequisites for more information.
What are your application deadlines?
Please refer to our Application Deadlines for information about deadlines and critical dates.
What is the difference between Early Decision and Regular Decision?
If you choose to apply for Early Decision, it means that you will apply early and receive an admission decision sooner than the rest of the applicant pool. More important, if you are accepted, the decision is binding — you must attend Drexel.
If you choose to apply for Regular Decision, that means that you do not want a binding admission decision. Regular Decision applicants have a later deadline and will receive an admission decision later in the admission cycle.
What materials do I need to submit for my application?
Refer to the Freshman Application Instructions for a list of required materials.
Note: If your school plans to send materials online through Naviance, e-Docs, or any other online system, you will have to apply using the Common Application.
My first language is English. Can the TOEFL be waived?
U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents
You must take either the SAT or ACT and request that the results be forwarded to Admissions. All students should use the following codes to send score reports to Drexel: SAT 2194 or ACT 3556.
TOEFL or IELTS scores may be considered for admission for domestic freshmen whose first language is not English or for whom English is not spoken at home. Additionally, permanent residents whose first language is not English may be requested to submit official TOEFL or IETLS scores. Official TOEFL or IELTS scores should be submitted to Admissions. Drexel's TOEFL code is 2194.
International Applicants
International freshman applicants whose native language is English or who attend high school in the United States are required to take the SAT or ACT. Students may choose to submit the TOEFL or IELTS in addition to the SAT or ACT.
All other international freshman applicants may take the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, or IELTS. Drexel strongly prefers that applicants submit both the SAT and either the TOEFL or IELTS; candidates who do so will be considered more competitive.
What is the VIP application? Is it binding?
The VIP application is a streamlined version of our regular online application. The application in and of itself is not binding. You have the option to apply Early Decision or Regular Decision.
Can I double major?
While it is possible to double major at Drexel, you can only apply to one major at the time of admission. Once you begin classes at Drexel, you will be able to consult with your academic advisor about adding a second major.
Can I choose a minor?
Yes, you can choose to minor in one of our 90 options, but this process does not occur during the application process. Selection of a minor occurs with your academic advisor after you begin taking classes.
What is an accelerated degree? How do I apply for one?
An accelerated degree allows a student to obtain an undergraduate and graduate degree within a shortened period of time. Learn more about Drexel's Accelerated Degree Programs.
I took AP/IB/college courses in high school. Will I receive credit for them?
Refer to our Enrollment Policies on the Accepted Students page for details on how to submit your scores and/or transcripts.
I made a mistake on my application. How can I fix it?
To fix an error on your application, please Email Admissions with the information you are requesting to change. You will receive a confirmation email acknowledging that the change has been made.
How can I check the status of my application?
You can check the status of your application by visiting the Discover Drexel Portal. You will need your Student ID and PIN to access your application information. For assistance finding your Student ID and PIN, please refer to Locate Your Student ID and PIN.
Note: Information on Discover Drexel reflects what has been processed into our system. It will not reflect materials that we have received but have not yet processed.
I sent my documents weeks ago. Why doesn't Drexel have them?
Once we receive admissions documents, it takes approximately two to four weeks to process them into our system. After we have processed the materials, they will be reflected in Discover Drexel.
Where can I submit my documents electronically?
Please refer to the Freshman Application Instructions for detailed instructions on how to submit individual items.
Where can I mail my application materials?
Please refer to the Freshman Application Instructions for our mailing addresses.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
How do I apply for scholarships?
All students are automatically considered for merit aid during the application review process. For information about additional scholarships, including the Drexel Distinguished Service Scholarships, the Dragon Alumni Scholarship, etc., please visit the Financial Aid website to learn more about Undergraduate Grants and Scholarships.
Student Life
I want to play varsity sports at Drexel. How do I get involved?
Drexel University offers Division I sports in the Colonial Athletic Association. If you would like to be considered for varsity athletics, please fill out the Prospective Student Athletes form. For more detailed information on the sports programs that we offer, please visit www.drexeldragons.com.
Drexel Co-op
What is co-op?
Co-operative education (co-op) at Drexel enables undergraduate students to balance classroom theory with practical, hands-on experience prior to graduation. Students alternate classes with full-time employment through University-approved employers. Generally, students are on co-op for a six-month period, alternating with six months of classroom study. Co-operative education at Drexel is a degree requirement for most majors. Learn more about Co-op Opportunities at Drexel.
I've heard that Drexel has quarters, not semesters. How is Drexel's system structured?
Drexel's academic year is comprised of four quarters, which include ten weeks of classes and one week of finals. The number of quarters that students will attend each year depends on their co-op option. Learn more about Co-op Options.