Understanding Drexel University Tuition Fees and Costs
Drexel University, a private research university situated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers a wide array of academic programs and opportunities. Founded in 1891 by Anthony J. Drexel, the university is known for its commitment to innovation and experiential learning. This article delves into the tuition fees, associated costs, and financial aid options at Drexel University, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective students and their families.
Drexel University: An Overview
Drexel University is a private non-profit institution located in the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 11,757 (fall 2024), its setting is urban, and the campus size is 96 acres. The student-faculty ratio at Drexel University is 9:1, and it utilizes a quarter-based academic calendar. Drexel University accepts the Common Application and has a test-optional admissions policy. With an acceptance rate of 75% and a relatively low yield of 11%, Drexel attracts a diverse student body. The graduation rate is high at 67%, and the retention rate is very high at 89%, indicating a positive academic environment. Drexel University is ranked No. #80 in National Universities and No. #42 in Most Innovative Schools.
Tuition and Fees: The Sticker Price
The sticker price, or the advertised cost of attendance, at Drexel University is a significant figure. The school's tuition and fees are $64,212. For the academic year 2025-2026, the projected sticker price is $86,626. This figure encompasses tuition, fees, and other expenses before any financial aid is applied.
Historical Tuition Trends
Examining the historical tuition trends provides valuable insights into the increasing cost of education at Drexel University. Here’s a breakdown of the net in-state price and in-state sticker price over the years:
| Year | Net In-State Price | In-State Sticker Price |
|---|---|---|
| 25-26 | $46,344 | $86,626 |
| 24-25 | $44,928 | $83,979 |
| 23-24 | $43,555 | $81,413 |
| 22-23 | $42,342 | $79,145 |
| 21-22 | $39,267 | $76,524 |
| 20-21 | $26,076 | $75,146 |
| 19-20 | $39,463 | $71,657 |
| 18-19 | $38,025 | $70,223 |
| 17-18 | $36,727 | $68,792 |
| 16-17 | $40,977 | $71,375 |
| 15-16 | $39,021 | $69,912 |
| 14-15 | $40,615 | $67,665 |
| 13-14 | $37,244 | $57,870 |
This data illustrates a consistent increase in both the net in-state price and the sticker price, reflecting the rising costs of higher education.
Read also: Drexel University Student Statistics
The Net Price: Factoring in Financial Aid
The net price is the actual amount a student pays after deducting grants and scholarships from the total cost of attendance. This figure is highly individualized, depending on a student's financial circumstances and the financial aid policies of the university.
Average Net Price
For the academic year 2025-2026, the projected average net price at Drexel University is $46,344. However, this can vary significantly based on household income. This year at Drexel University, we project that on average students will pay $46,344, while the advertised price of attendance is $86,626. That’s a difference of $40,282.
Net Price by Income Bracket
The following table shows the projected net price for the 2025-2026 school year, categorized by household income:
| Income Bracket | Projected Net Price |
|---|---|
| <$30K | $30,359 |
| $30K-$48K | $32,561 |
| $48K-$75K | $39,230 |
| $75K-$110K | $42,909 |
| >$110K | $51,979 |
As evident from the data, students from lower-income households generally pay a lower net price due to the availability of more significant financial aid. At Drexel University this year, we project students with incomes over $110K will pay around $51,979, while students with incomes below $30K will pay around $30,359. That's a difference of $21,620.
Factors Influencing Net Price
Several factors influence the net price a student pays:
Read also: Drexel University Scholarships
- Household Income: Lower-income families typically receive more financial aid, reducing the net price.
- Assets: A family's assets are considered when determining financial need.
- Number of Family Members: The size of the family can impact the expected family contribution.
- Number of Students in College: Having multiple family members in college simultaneously can increase financial aid eligibility.
Using the Net Price Calculator
For the most accurate estimate of your net price, it is recommended to use Drexel University's Net Price Calculator. This tool takes into account your personal circumstances and the university's financial aid policies to provide a personalized estimate.
Additional Costs to Consider
While tuition and fees form a significant portion of college expenses, other costs must be considered when planning for higher education.
Books and Supplies
The estimated cost for books and supplies is around $1,700 per year. This can vary depending on the program of study and the required materials.
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses, including clothing, entertainment, and other miscellaneous costs, are estimated at $1,500 per year.
Transportation
Transportation costs can vary widely depending on whether a student lives on campus or commutes. Commuting students should factor in the cost of gas, public transportation, and parking.
Read also: Undergraduate Portal Navigation at Drexel
Room and Board
Housing and food expenses are significant costs for students living on campus. These costs can vary depending on the type of housing and meal plan selected.
Financial Aid Options at Drexel University
Drexel University offers various financial aid options to help students manage the cost of education. Financial aid can include grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study jobs. Sixty-three percent of first-year students receive need-based financial aid, and the average net price for federal loan recipients is $35,596.
Grants and Scholarships
Grants and scholarships are forms of financial aid that do not need to be repaid. These are typically awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of both. In the 2025-2026 academic year, Drexel offered financial support to 100% of its incoming first-year students, as well as to 76% of its transfer students entering in fall 2024 who were seeking to complete their first bachelor's degree and had not already earned a graduate/professional degree; the average scholarship and grant aid offered to first-year students for fall 2025 was $40,814, and the average offered to fall transfer students was $33,104.
Loans
Loans are a form of financial aid that must be repaid with interest. Federal student loans are typically the most favorable option, offering lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans.
Work-Study
Work-study programs allow students to earn money to help pay for college expenses by working part-time jobs, often on campus.
Financial Aid Application Process
To apply for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Some colleges may also require additional forms or documentation.
Understanding Student Debt
It's essential to understand the implications of student debt and how to manage it effectively.
Total Debt After Graduation
The total amount a student will have to pay back after graduation includes the principal borrowed, loan fees, and interest accrued during school or the grace period.
Monthly Loan Payments
The monthly loan payment is the amount a student is expected to pay each month toward their loan balance. This tool assumes a 10-year repayment term and a 6% interest rate. Generally, the monthly loan payment will be about 1% of the total debt at graduation.
Total Student Loan Payments During Life of Loan
This is the total amount a student will have to repay, including principal and interest. This tool assumes a 10-year repayment term and a 6% interest rate.
Managing Student Debt
A good rule of thumb is to keep total debt less than your child's expected annual income. That way they should be able to afford to repay their loans in 10 years or less. A smarter way to reduce your child's future monthly payments is to start saving money well before college. Every dollar you save for your child will reduce the amount they will have to borrow and pay back with interest.
Graduation and Retention Rates
A school’s graduation rate can indicate how likely a student is to complete their degree. At Drexel University, over the last five years 75% of students earned their bachelor’s degree within six years of enrolling. The four-year graduation rate is 31%. Student retention, or how often students return to continue their degree after completing their first year, is another helpful indicator. Over the last five years, at Drexel University, about 89% of full-time students returned the following fall to continue their degree.
Graduation Rates by Demographic
Students from different demographic backgrounds often graduate at different rates, so it can be helpful to look beyond the overall graduation rate. This chart shows how students of different races and ethnicities fare earning their degrees at Drexel University.
| Demographic Category | Graduation Rate at Drexel University | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| American Indian/Alaska Native | 69% | 31% |
| Asian | 81% | 45% |
| Black | 63% | 34% |
| Hispanic | 63% | 41% |
| Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander | 80% | 28% |
| White | 75% | 50% |
| Multiple Races | 67% | 37% |
| Unknown Race | 72% | 37% |
Student Demographics
The size and demographic makeup of a school’s student body can have a large impact on a student’s experience. Drexel University is a private institution that was founded in 1891. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 11,757 (fall 2024), its setting is urban, and the campus size is 96 acres. The student-faculty ratio at Drexel University is 9:1, and it utilizes a quarter-based academic calendar. Drexel University accepts the Common Application and has a test-optional admissions policy.
Considerations for Prospective Students
Prospective students should consider the following factors when evaluating Drexel University:
- Academic Programs: Drexel University offers undergraduate degrees in 312 majors.
- Experiential Learning: Drexel University is known for one of its top majors: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.
- Campus Life: Get an inside look at what it’s like to be a Drexel Dragon-from classes and student organizations to favorite campus hangouts and study abroad adventures.
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