Visiting Students
Our Programs
At Drexel, we proudly welcome all students from around the world to experience our vibrant campus community. Drexel Global offers two options for international visiting students:
Exchange program: available for students studying within allocated exchange spots for one to three terms at Drexel. May be competitive due to limited capacity.
Discounted fee-paying program: available for students studying outside of allocated exchange spots for one to three terms at Drexel. Tuition is discounted at a significant rate for this population (see Cost + Budget for pricing information).
Exchange and fee-paying students undergo the same application process. See Nomination + Application for more information.
Why Philadelphia?
Philadelphia (casually referred to as “Philly”), the birthplace of the United States and its sixth largest city, is home to nearly 1.6 million people. Philadelphia, often called the birthplace of the United States, is deeply rooted in American history. Philadelphia is home to many national historical sites like Independence Hall, the Constitution Center, and the Liberty Bell. In its older sections, visitors will find monuments and streets from the colonial era.
Philadelphia is also a diverse center of art and culture. The city’s major art museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, is one of the largest art museums in the US. Philadelphia also has more public art than any other American city.
Many of its neighborhoods, including Center City (downtown), are just minutes from Drexel University by public transit (SEPTA), bicycle, or by foot. Philly is famous for its restaurants, and hosts teams for major professional sports. Situated halfway between New York City and Washington, D.C., and close to Baltimore, New Jersey beaches, and the Pocono mountains, it is the perfect city to study and learn about the United States.
Local Resources
Why Drexel?
Drexel University is a private research institution ranked among the top 90 universities in the United States, with many of its programs being ranked in the top 50. Located in the University City section of Philadelphia, Drexel's campus is part of a thriving student and scholar community. Visiting students are encouraged to participate in out-of-the-classroom activities and become involved with student organizations to make the most out of their time at Drexel. Your time at Drexel, personally and academically, will be an unforgettable and transformative experience.
Campus Life
Drexel students have the best of all worlds — a booming campus culture located in the heart of one of America's great cities. Involvement in Student Life is essential in making Drexel's campus life a valuable experience. Exchange students are encouraged to participate in out-of-the-classroom activities, become involved with student organizations, and use those experiences to make the most out of their time at Drexel.
Drexel offers a variety of activities, clubs, athletics, and arts and culture programing for student engagement. There are over 300 recognized student organizations and a variety of intramural and recreational sports.
Visiting students can select from a list of academic, cultural, sport and other student groups through Campus Life. This is a great way to meet Drexel students and experience American campus life.
Visiting students are also encouraged to browse opportunities to help the local community with various activities and involvement. Volunteering is very common activity for US college students.
Drexel also has a 240,000 square foot recreation center with a fully equipped gym and a 25-yard pool that is free for all exchange students.
Read more about studying at Drexel on our visiting student blog!
Browse directions and campus maps
Directions and Campus Maps