Drexel's 3,500+ international students, scholars and faculty represent 120+ countries and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to Drexel. International Students & Scholars Services (ISSS) provides international students, scholars and faculty (F-1 and J-1) guidance on immigration, cultural, financial, academic, and personal concerns, and makes appropriate referrals when necessary. International graduate students also receive ongoing support and engagement from the Graduate College and International Graduate Student Association (IGSA) through a series of social, professional, cultural and recreational programs and opportunities. In addition, the English Language Center offers various academic and student life resources for international students and English language learners.

For more information about applying to Drexel as an international student or for international student resources, visit the Graduate Admissions website.

International Graduate Student Pre-Arrival Webinars

As international students prepare to travel to and begin their graduate study in the US, the Graduate College of Drexel University is committed to helping make the transition as smooth as possible. The Graduate College, in partnership with the IGSA and campus partners, hosts a series of optional but highly encouraged pre-arrival webinars over the summer to help incoming international graduate students prepare for graduate study in the US, arrival to and life in the US and Philadelphia, and to answer any questions about student life and graduate study at Drexel.

Monday, July 1, 2024
8 to 9:30 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

Watch the Webinar [Drexel Streams]

Tuesday, July 9, 2024
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

Watch the Webinar [Drexel Streams]

The webinars include:

• A welcome and introduction of members of the Graduate College, International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS), Health Insurance and Immunizations, Drexel Central, Drexel Global, and current international graduate students and members of IGSA Executive Board (listed below);
• A comprehensive overview of life in the US, Philadelphia, and at Drexel and advice on how to prepare for travel, arrival and the rigor of the quarter systems and graduate study at Drexel;
• A Question & Answer (Q&A) session featuring current international graduate students, faculty and professional staff members, and representatives from the Graduate College, ISSS, Health Insurance and Immunizations, Drexel Central, Drexel Global and the IGSA on a wide range of topics.

The webinar sessions will be recorded and archived on this website for later viewing. We will also circulate a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) following the webinars.

If you have any questions about these webinars, please contact graduatecollege@drexel.edu.

International Graduate Student Informational Webinars

In addition to the pre-arrival webinars listed above, the Graduate College is offering an additional series of webinars to help students get acquainted with campus resources and services as they prepare to begin their graduate study. These webinars are optional but highly encouraged.

Discover Blackboard: Drexel's Learning Management System (LMS)
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
9 to 10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

In this workshop, students will learn the ins and outs about Blackboard Learn, Drexel's fully supported Learning Management System (LMS), also known as "Drexel Learn" or "Learn" for short. Learn is managed by Drexel University Information Technology and is fully integrated with the DrexelOne portal and the Banner Student Information System (SIS). All Drexel courses have a section created in DrexelLearn each term in which you will be enrolled. This webinar is curated by the Director of Instructional Technology from Information Technology, Dr. Michael Shelmet.

Watch the Webinar [Drexel Streams]

Introducing Drexel Libraries and Services & Navigating the Waters of Academic Integrity with Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Thursday, July 25, 2024
9 to 10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

In this workshop, students will learn about the Drexel Libraries and services, Drexel's Academic Integrity policy, and Academic Integrity Pertaining to Artificial Intelligence (AI). Drexel's renowned Librarian, Jay Bhatt, will discuss the importance of academic integrity in the digital age, highlight the usage of ChatGPT and other large language models (LLMs) in academia. Key topics will include the importance of citations, the impact of scientific misconduct, and the role of tools like Retraction Watch in maintaining research integrity. The discussion will cover the responsible use of LLMs in coding and writing academic papers, emphasizing the need for verifying AI-generated citations against credible sources.

Watch the Webinar [Drexel Streams]

Download the Presentation [PDF]

If you have any questions about these webinars, please contact graduatecollege@drexel.edu.

Guides & Resources for International Students & Scholars

Please note that you may be required to log in via your Drexel Single Sign-On (SSO) with your Drexel ID (abc123) and password to access the FAQs:

Pre-Arrival Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Community Guide to Drexel and Philadelphia [PDF]

International House Philadelphia International Student & Scholar Guide

Please also refer to the Pre-Arrival Handbook published by ISSS:

Pre-Arrival Handbook [PDF]

International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS)

ISSS offers a vast array of programs and services to approximately 3,500+ international students, scholars, and faculty (F-1 and J-1) representing 120+ different countries. The ISSS staff works to promote meaningful interaction between United States Citizens and nationals of other countries by organizing culturally enriching opportunities for all members of the Drexel community. A student's affiliation with ISSS begins immediately after the admission process and continues well beyond graduation. ISSS staff can advise international students, scholars and faculty on immigration, cultural, financial, academic, and personal concerns, and makes appropriate referrals when necessary.

For more information please visit the ISSS website or email isss@drexel.edu.

Information for Incoming Fulbright Scholars

Fulbright scholars have the unique opportunity to participate in graduate study, research, creative projects or teaching worldwide. Drexel offers incoming Fulbright scholars an opportunity for a truly comprehensive academic experience. Drexel offers the best of all worlds – a booming campus culture located in the heart of one of America’s great cities. To make the most of your experience at Drexel, you are encouraged to:

1. Join one of Drexel’s academic, cultural, sport and other student groups through Campus Life.
2. Browse opportunities for activities & involvement through Student Life.
3. Explore everything Philadelphia has to offer. From museums to good eats, there is no shortage of activities to explore! Find out more about living in Philadelphia by clicking on the "Guides & Resources" listed above.

Questions? Seek support through the following resources:

1. Scholars should contact their academic advisor for questions related to their academic plan of study and course schedule.
2. For assistance with required Fulbright paperwork and general inquiries, please contact the Office of Global Engagement at global@drexel.edu.

Checks must be mailed to the Cashier’s Office at the address below:

Cashier's Office
Suite 106, Main Building
Drexel University
3141 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

International Graduate Student Association (IGSA)

The International Graduate Student Association (IGSA) advocates for the interests and addresses the concerns of Drexel's international graduate students. As one of the most dynamic, diverse, and active graduate student organizations, the IGSA augments graduate student life at Drexel for international students and collaborates with groups across the University to offer:

• Pre-arrival informational and engaging webinars;
• Welcome programs and events;
• Shopping trips;
• Cultural and informational tours of Drexel and Philadelphia;
• Group trips Philadelphia and metropolitan area attractions;
• Academic and professional development workshops;
• Multicultural social events and gatherings in celebration of US and international holidays and culture;
• Cultural and community building events;
• And, recreational events, such as hiking, skiing, ice skating and more!

Executive Board Members of the IGSA 2024-2025

For general inquiries, please contact the IGSA E-Board at dsoigsa@drexel.edu. Or, visit their page on DragonLink for a list of upcoming events.

Role	Name, Program & Bio	Photo
President	Essien Oku Essien PhD Program in Communication, Culture & Media College of Arts and Sciences Essien Oku Essien is the President of the International Graduate Students Association and a PhD student in the Department of Communication, Culture, and Media Studies where he explores Social Construction, Semiotics, and Media Effects. Essien also explores Climate Change Misinformation (CCM) on social media and African Cosmology. He has won several Emerging Scholar Awards from different social science research networks at research conferences around the World, and he holds a First-Class (Honors) Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the Cross River University of Technology, Nigeria. Essien’s numerous research publications and conference presentations as well as his active involvement in the actualization of the UN-SDGs had earned him an Award of Recognition from the Thirst Foundation, Melbourne, Australia, delegation to the World Bank Group Youth Summit held at the World Bank HQ, W-DC as well as other international recognitions. With a strong background in leadership, project management, budgeting, and administration, Essien aims to champion initiatives that empower international students to thrive both academically and culturally. His leadership centers on inclusivity, innovation, and a commitment to creating a vibrant and supportive community for all international graduate students.
Vice President of Student Affairs	Mobish Abraham Shaji PhD Program in Mechanical Engineering College of Engineering As a PhD candidate, my research focuses on using the fourth state of matter (plasma) to treat microplastics in water and enhancing the output of gasification processes. The role of Vice President (Students Affairs), which I am honored to serve presents me the opportunity to make positive contributions to Drexel's international graduate student community. Especially focusing on activities that can aid with the academic experience of international graduate students at Drexel. My non-academic interest includes public speaking. I was the runner-up for a Toastmasters (an international Public speaking organization) area-level speech contest last year; and volunteered in my church.
Vice President of Operations	Ive-Anwuli Ralph-Uyalor PhD Program in Biological Science College of Arts and Sciences In my life as a PhD candidate in biology, I am deeply immersed in understanding the intricacies of cell migration. Outside the lab, I find balance in exploring the outdoors, cooking and just having fun. As vice president of operations of the IGSA, I’m focused on ensuring that our activities run smoothly and that our diverse community thrives. Coming from a very diverse country like Nigeria, I understand the importance of diversity and inclusion. It is my goal to foster a supportive and collaborative environment where every student can contribute meaningfully to our collective success.
Treasurer	Sonika Lamichhane PhD Program in Communication, Culture & Media College of Arts and Sciences Sonika Lamichhane is a second-year PhD student in Communication, Culture, and Media Studies (CCM). Her research focuses on social media, misinformation, fake news, and digital media, exploring their broader societal impacts. Sonika's work has garnered significant recognition, with numerous publications addressing social media and contemporary issues. As the Treasurer of the International Graduate Student Association (IGSA), she is responsible for managing the budget and maintaining precise financial records. She aims to contribute to the association's success by ensuring its financial practices effectively support its goals.
Event Coordinator	Nikhil Gulia Master's Program in Business Analytics LeBow College of Business I am an organized and energetic individual with a strong background in event planning and project management. My experience includes coordinating events, managing budgets, and working with diverse teams, which equips me with a keen eye for detail and creative problem-solving skills. As the Event Coordinator for the International Graduate Student Association, I am eager to leverage these skills to create memorable, seamless experiences and foster a vibrant, inclusive community for international graduate students.
Director of Academic Events	Mathieu Ndong Master's Program in Business Analytics LeBow College of Business I am a dual citizen of Gabon and Senegal with a deep passion for sciences and statistics. I hold a bachelor's degree in physics from Indiana University, where I served as a Senator in the student government. My experience as an international student highlighted the value of schools as hubs for exchanging ideas with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in Business Analytics at Drexel University, with the goal of furthering my career in data-driven businesses. As the Academic Events Director, I am committed to fostering an environment where international students can collaborate, discuss, and network with peers, enhancing career opportunities in both industry and research.
Director of Cultural Events	Rishikesh Chulan Master's Program in Chemistry College of Arts and Sciences I come from the island of Mauritius. Having grown up in a diverse and multicultural environment, I am keen to foster mutual understanding and dialogue through learning about other cultures and sharing my own. When I am not studying Chemistry, I like to travel and learn new languages.
Director of Social Events	Sai Kunal Malla Master's Program in Robotics and Autonomy College of Engineering I'm Kunal, and I'm thrilled to be the Director of Social Events for the International Graduate Student Association. Outside of college, I'm a passionate dancer, a budding artist, and a curious explorer of new languages and cultures. As Director of Social Events, I aim to foster a cohesive and inclusive community by organizing events that promote cultural exchange, intercultural competence, and social networking. I'll strive to create a safe, accessible, and engaging environment where students can connect, learn from one another, and build lasting friendships. To achieve these goals, I plan to organize a variety of events that cater to diverse interests and backgrounds, such as cultural festivals, game nights, movie screenings, and social gatherings. I'll also collaborate with other student organizations and community partners to create opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and networking. Additionally, I'll utilize social media and other digital platforms to promote events, facilitate communication, and build community. I prioritize inclusivity and accessibility in all of our events, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and included. Let's make this year a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange and unforgettable experiences!
Director of Social Media & Public Relations	Alpha West Sannoh Master's Program in Communication, Culture & Media College of Arts and Sciences As a Director of Public Relations and Social Media for IGSA, I am excited to bring my public service, public relations, and digital marketing expertise to the role. As a graduate student in Communication, Culture, and Media Studies, I have developed a strong foundation in strategic communication and journalism, which I am eager to apply to the organization's efforts. I have set my goal to let IGSA be visible, connect meaningfully with this community, and effectively communicate our efforts to a much wider audience. I am dedicated to using my skills to ensure the message resonates and our impact grows.

English Language Center

Among many academic and student life resources, Drexel's English Language Center provides high quality English language instruction and support services to English language learners, as well as valuable information for new and international students related to housing, dining, banking and the city of Philadelphia.

The English Language Center also provides an International Teaching Assistant (ITA) program for new international TAs.

More Information

For more information on transitioning to the United States, the Philadelphia area and to the Drexel community please see Drexel's Office of Faculty Advancement's Guidebook for International Faculty which contains information pertinent to international graduate students as well.

The Journal of International Students also offers additional resources and information for international students and scholars.

For more graduate student resources, visit the More Resources page.