Drexel University's published cost of attendance is $75,167 per year, including $60,663 in tuition, $17,550 for room and board, and $1,700 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $38,428 annually.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $76,835 |
| Tuition and Fees | $62,412 |
| Room and Board | $18,096 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,700 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$38,326 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $38,509 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $28,055 |
| $30–48k | $29,435 |
| $48–75k | $34,970 |
| $75–110k | $37,842 |
| $110k+ | $48,089 |
Drexel University's published cost of attendance is $75,167 per year, including $60,663 in tuition, $17,550 for room and board, and $1,700 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $38,428 annually. This represents $36,739 in average financial aid savings, reducing costs by nearly half for typical families.
The net price of $38,428 exceeds the peer median of $33,531 by $4,897, indicating that Drexel costs more than comparable institutions even after financial aid. This higher cost reflects the institution's urban Philadelphia location, extensive co-op programs, and specialized facilities for technical and professional programs. Families should expect meaningful variation in actual costs based on income levels, with net prices ranging from $27,737 for the lowest-income families to $47,490 for those with incomes above $110,000.
Drexel University's financial aid strategy reflects its commitment to career-focused education for students from diverse economic backgrounds. With 25.2% Pell-eligible enrollment, the institution serves a meaningful population of lower-income students, though this share is below the national average.
The substantial $36,739 average in financial aid savings indicates that most families receive significant assistance, with aid concentrated toward students with the greatest financial need. Net prices by income tier show progressive targeting, with the lowest-income families paying $27,737 compared to $47,490 for highest-income families.
This aid distribution supports the institution's role in providing technical and professional education to students who might not otherwise afford such programs. The financial aid approach enables Drexel to maintain its diverse student composition while offering strong career preparation and exceptional post-graduation outcomes.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Drexel University graduates leave with median debt of $25,325, which is $2,157 above the peer median of $23,168 but remains within manageable ranges given earning outcomes. Debt levels span from $9,800 at the 25th percentile to $30,125 at the 75th percentile, indicating that most students borrow moderate amounts relative to their future earning potential.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30 means that typical graduates owe less than one-third of their annual income, which financial experts consider sustainable for most career paths. With median earnings of $84,648, graduates can typically manage the debt burden while enjoying strong financial outcomes.
Parent PLUS debt averages $35,075 with monthly payments of $462, representing additional family investment in students' education. The combination of moderate student debt levels and strong post-graduation earnings creates favorable conditions for loan repayment and long-term financial stability.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Drexel University delivers strong return on educational investment despite higher costs than peer institutions. Graduates earn $18,348 beyond expectations, ranking in the 93.4th percentile nationally for value creation, while median earnings of $84,648 exceed the peer median by $8,077 annually.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30 indicates sustainable borrowing levels relative to post-graduation income, particularly given the institution's consistent earnings growth over time. With median debt of $25,325 compared to earnings that rank in the 95th percentile nationally, graduates typically experience favorable financial outcomes that justify the educational investment.
The institution's extensive co-op program and industry partnerships contribute to strong career placement and earning potential that offset higher upfront costs. Low-income graduates earn $94,200, ranking in the top 5% nationally, indicating that the investment pays off particularly well for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
