Calculating Tuition for Master of Science Programs
Cost is a significant factor in choosing the right program for you. Since Drexel runs on a quarter term system it is important to calculate the entire cost of the degree when comparing your options. For international students, additional information for assistance for the I-20 and visa process should be included. Please contact us with questions.
How to Calculate Costs:
General Guidelines:
- Tuition is based on the number of credit hours
- The MS program requires 45 credit to complete
- Each course is three credits, for a total 15 courses for the program
- Full-time students typically enroll in 3-4 courses per quarter
- Most student complete the program in 5 quarters (longer for part-time)
Tuition Rate (2024-2025):
Student Fees (2024-2025):
- Full-time: $280 per quarter
- Part-time: $140 per quarter
Program Cost Calculation (List Price): To estimate the total cost of the program, use the following formula:
(45 credits x Tuition Rate) + (5 quarters x Student Fee) = Total Program Cost
​Example Calculation:
- (45 x $1,342) + (5 x $280) = $61,790
Actual Cost Calculation: To calculate your actual costs, subtract any scholarships or awards from the total program cost. Students awarded the College of Engineering Dean's Award (or other scholarships) will be notified upon acceptance.
Confirmation Deposit: A $300 deposit is required to confirm enrollment. This deposit will be applied to the first term's tuition and fees.
Awards and Scholarships
Scholarships and Donor Awards: Most full-time master’s students in the College of Engineering receive the Dean’s Award, a merit-based scholarship determined at the time of acceptance. Recipients must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher to continue receiving the award. The minimum award is $15,000 for students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Additional Awards: Scholarship eligibility is reviewed periodically. Selected students will be notified via email if they qualify for additional awards, which may be offered as scholarships during the academic year.
International Students and the I-20 Form
International students must provide proof of financial support to obtain the I-20 form, a requirement for the visa process. This proof includes covering tuition and other costs for a 9-month period. To estimate this amount, use the Cost of Attendance (COA) below, subtracting the Dean’s Award as shown in the student portal.
The Dean’s Award is typically distributed over five quarters (approximately 18 months). For a $15,000 award, $9,000 will be allocated over the first year (three payments of $3,000), which can be factored into I-20 documentation.
I-20 and Cost Calculations: To calculate your I-20 requirement, include 9 months of tuition and expenses, then deduct any scholarships or discounts. Without discounts, the I-20 requirement is $65,889.
I-20 Requirement Breakdown for 27 Credit Hours (3 Quarters):
- Tuition and Fees: $37,074
- Living Expenses: $18,720
- Health Insurance & Miscellaneous: $10,095
- Total Required for I-20: $65,889
Adjusted I-20 Requirements: (Total Required for I-20 - Dean's Award and Scholarships) = Adjusted I-20 Requirement
For alumni and partnership discounts see the Awards and Fellowship pages.