At Drexel University, we are committed to our values of diversity and global engagement. We recognize that our graduate student body and the entire University benefit from the experiences and perspectives of students from all over the world.  

Students from nearly 100 countries have made Drexel their choice for graduate education. Located in Philadelphia, America's sixth largest city and one of the nation's most historic and diverse, Drexel gives international students a vibrant introduction to American culture while honoring the contributions of all cultures.

Graduate Programs at Drexel

Since 1927, Drexel's graduate programs have been developing leaders in the professions that push us forward. Offering over 120 graduate programs across 15 schools, colleges, and centers, Drexel is one of only two universities in the Philadelphia area to have achieved the "top doctoral institution" designation in U.S. News & World Report's prestigious annual rankings.

Below you'll find information about applying to Drexel and other resources the University offers its international students. We encourage you to learn about our programs and explore the opportunities that a graduate degree from Drexel can provide.

Learn more about Drexel's graduate programs

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The Graduate College

The Graduate College of Drexel University is committed to the advancement of graduate education and ensuring graduate student success. The College provides funding to graduate research, professional development and networking opportunities, and numerous resources for graduate students.

Lean more about the Graduate College

University Rankings

Drexel is a comprehensive global research university ranked among the top 100 in the nation. The University ranked for the first time in 2018 in the "Most International Students" category under national universities, coming in at number 27 with 13 percent of the University’s undergraduate student population enrolled from abroad. The University also was ranked 25th on the "Most Innovative Schools" list for national universities.

See Drexel's rankings

Drexel Resources for International Students

International Students and Scholars Services

Drexel's Office of International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) offers a vast array of programs and services to international students, scholars, and faculty representing 117 countries. ISSS staff can advise international students on immigration, academic, cultural, financial, and personal concerns.

Learn more about the services offered by ISSS

Visa Application Process

After you have confirmed your intent to enroll at Drexel, ISSS will reach out to you with detailed instructions on how to proceed with the visa application process

View visa information for new international students

English Language Center

Drexel's English Language Center (ELC) offers a variety of programs to help students improve their English language skills, including intensive English courses, an American Life and Language program, and a TOEFL Writing Preparation course.

Learn more about the ELC

Graduate Preparation

The Drexel Graduate Preparation program is a conditional graduate admission program that prepares academically qualified students for the language and communication challenges of graduate school. This 10-week program, offered in the summer term, consists of advanced coursework in academic reading, writing, listening and speaking, as well as graduate academic skills. Upon successful completion of the program, students may then matriculate into their graduate program in the fall. 

Find more information about the Drexel Graduate Preparation program

Career Development at Drexel

The Steinbright Career Development Center supports master's students as they develop and revise résumés, create cover letters, identify available positions, and prepare for interviews. Drexel's expertise in the field of experiential education extends to its graduate degree programs for select majors via the Graduate Co-op program. Students in the Graduate Co-op program have the opportunity to gain as much as six months of real-world work and research experience as part of their academic program.

Our Graduate Co-op program is a form of Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Students who complete Graduate Co-op are still eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) before or after graduation. Students who complete degrees in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) program are also eligible for a 24-month OPT extension after they graduate. Learn more about trainings on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Practical Training page.

Though there are certain visa-related restrictions, international students can pursue many of the same employment opportunities as U.S. residents while studying for their degree. For more specific information about the types of student visas and how they affect employment eligibility, please see the International Students and Scholars Services Employment page.

Health Care

Health care accommodations can vary from country to county; in the United States, health care is often self-funded. To ensure a safe and healthy environment for all of our students, all full-time students are required to comply with Drexel's Health Insurance Policy and have health insurance that meets the University's minimum requirements. Please see the Health Insurance page for more information.

Additionally, all full-time students are required to comply with the University's Immunization Policy. Understanding the policy and compliance requirements will make your transition smoother when you arrive on campus. To learn more about the policy and the necessary steps for compliance, visit our Immunizations page.

The health of our students is of the utmost importance, and Drexel operates a health center to support student's needs. Staffed by faculty physicians and nurse practitioners from the Drexel University College of Medicine Department of Family and Community Medicine, visits are by appointment and conducted in a confidential environment. For details of the services provided, go to the Student Health Center page.

Housing

On-campus housing is available for graduate students through a lottery system. However, many Drexel graduate students typically live off campus and commute by foot, bike, car, or public transit. Visit the University Housing website for more information about living on campus.

The University's Commuter Student Resources page maintains lists of area landlords and can help you with the basics of finding a place to live.

Campus Groups and Activities

Students who are looking to maintain a connection to their home country while studying in America can choose to take part in a wide range of student-run cultural groups.

Learn more at the International Graduate Student Association website