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Drake University
6.9(2)
VerifiedPrivate (Not for Profit)Estd. 1881
Founded
1881
Type
Private (Not for Profit)
University Guide
About Drake University
Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.
Established in 1881, Drake University is widely recognized as one of the best higher education institutions of the US Midwest. It is situated in Des Moines, Iowa, and is named after the Civil War General, Francis Marion Drake. It offers more than 90 degrees and courses through its six colleges and schools to more than 4,900 students, making it a popular destination to study in the US.
It was named for Civil War general Francis Marion Drake and boasts more than 130 years of proud history in the US Education System and many traditions. More than 2,800 undergraduates and 1,800 graduate students from 45 states and more than 52 countries are enrolled in the university with international students constituting around 3% of the student body.
Programs at Drake University include more than 70 majors, minors, and concentrations; combine majors or self-created majors at the undergraduate level. Graduate students can choose from more than 20 master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees.
Ranked No. 1 on Forbes magazine’s list of the Best Places for Business and Careers, Des Moines offers numerous opportunities to its international students in terms of culture and traditions exploration. The university helps its students find one of the best job opportunities in the USA. 98% of the students were employed or began their graduate school within 6 months of graduation.
Drake University Rankings
It has been ranked by top-ranking agencies across a set of indicators of academic excellence. Rankings of the University by various top-ranking agencies are tabulated below:
| Ranking Agencies | Category | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| US News and World Report Rankings | National Universities | #124 |
| Best College for Veteran | #86 | |
| Best Value schools | #56 | |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | #366 | |
| QS Rankings | US Universities | #201-250 |
| Times Higher Education Rankings | US College Ranking | #144 |
| Collegefactual | The best college for Management Science and Quantitative Method. | #2 |
Highlights
| University Type | Private |
| Campus Setting | Urban |
| Intake Seasons | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Retention Rate | 88% |
| Campus Housing | Available |
| Financial Aid | Available through scholarships, loans and grants |
| Work-study Programme | Yes |
| Mode of Programme | Full-time, Part-time and Online |
| English Language Proficiency tests accepted | IELTS, TOEFL, etc |
| Admission Helpdesk | 1-515-271-3181 [email protected] |
| Official Website | drake.edu |
Drake University Campus
- Drake University has a 150 acre campus in Des Moines, Iowa.
- The on-campus dining options are dining halls, convenience stores, cafes, coffee shops, etc.
- The celebrated Drake Relays bring the whole university together. Street paintings and Relays Parade are a part of it.
- Students can be a part of the 160 clubs and organizations.
- Multicultural, religious, sports, political and service organizations are also a part of the university.
- Some unique Drake events include pie fights, Stalnaker Halloween Dance, Crawford Olympics, Siblings Weekend, the Bucksbaum Lectures, charity singing events and bulldog beauty pageants.
- Libraries, academic assistance, career services, disability resources, transportation etc are found on campus.
- Des Moines presents attractions including museums, music festivals, cultural events, outdoor recreation and sports, medical facilities and brilliant internships.
- The city has been termed the “Best Places for Business and Careers” by Forbes.
Drake University Residence
- Drake is a residential university with eight residence halls which include furnished rooms, air-conditioning, internet, television, kitchen and a common area.
- Only students approved by the Office of Residence Life can live off-campus.
- Real Estate and the Student Life Centre assist in finding student housing which mostly include Drake-owned apartments and other local rentals.
- First year students are placed in double rooms in one of the 5 residence halls for them.
- The First-Year Seminar is taken by all students living on the same floor to aid in bonding.
- Sophomore, junior and senior year housing includes on-campus (single/ double/triple room or a four-person suite) and off-campus (Greek/theme houses, apartments/houses) options.
Drake University Programs
- Drake University offers 70+ majors, minors & concentrations, and 20 graduate degrees in a varied range of fields.
- These courses are offered through seven colleges namely the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, College of Business and Public Administration, John Dee Bright College, School of Journalism and Mass Communication, School of Law, and College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
- A certificate program for global ambassador is also offered at Drake.
- Students can pursue interdisciplinary concentration; design a personal academic plan or can create their own major to meet their career goals.
- The most popular majors at Drake University include Business, Management, Marketing, Communication, Journalism, Biological and Biomedical Sciences; Education; and Social Sciences.
- It also offers a special Honor Program which helps strengthen student’s intellectual abilities essential to accelerate in any field.
- The university also offers various Online and continuing education programs.
- Drake University has a strong faculty of 301 members with 92% holding the highest degree in their field.
A glance at top programs at Drake University along with their fee are given below:
| Programs | Fee per annum |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] Computer Science | 42,694 USD |
| Bachelor Accounting | 42,694 USD |
| Bachelor of Arts [B.A] Anthropology and Sociology | 42,694 USD |
| Bachelor of Science [B.Sc] Data Analytics | 42,694 USD |
Drake University Application Process
Admissions at Drake University are open to all international students. Out of the UG students who entered in Fall 2023, 4% were international first year students and 15% were international transfer students from 52 countries.
- Application Portal:
- Drake University Application or Common Application; Law School applications are to be accessed from the university website
- Application Fee: None
- Deadlines:
- Early Action Deadline- December 1
- Regular Decision and FAFSA- March 1
- Application deadlines for the various graduate programmes vary
- Supporting Documents
- Original/certified copies of academic transcripts
- Including yearly secondary school/college/university record, record of credits earned and certified results
- English translations
- English Proficiency test scores
- IELTS, TOEFL iBT
- SAT/ACT test scores
- Test-flexible interview (if applicable)
- Personal Essay
- LOR (by teachers,counselors, professors or employers)
- International Student Grant Application (if applicable)
- Original/certified copies of academic transcripts
- Additional documents for graduate applications (if applicable)
- Resume or CV
- Statement of Interest and Goals
- Personal Statement/SOP
- GRE/LSAT/GMAT scores
- Drake Writing Test scores
- MAT scores
- Entrance exam waiver
- Evidence of financial support
- Signed financial certificate
- Praxis core exam scores
- Writing sample
- The graduation rate is 78%.
Drake University Cost of Attendance
- The Drake University Tuition Guarantee promises a fixed tuition cost throughout the course of study.
- An estimate of overall expenses while studying in a US university is tabulated below:
| Expenses | Cost in USD |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Per Semester) | UG: 22,094 PG: 515 to 21,750 |
| Student Activity Fee (Per Semester) | 31 to 89 |
| Technology Fee (Per Semester) | 60 to 250 |
| Orientation Fee | 45 to 110 |
| Transcript Fee | 8 |
| Residence Halls (Per Semester) | 3,042 to 4,848 |
| Meal Plans | 250 to 810 |
| Commuter Plans | 2,534 |
Drake University Financial Aid for International Students
- Funds to study in the US are available through scholarships, grants, loans, work-study programmes, etc. which are offered by Drake University as well as many other external agencies.
- The International Student Grant offers a partial grant and can be clubbed with other scholarships but must not exceed 40% of the total expense.
- More than 10 scholarships are provided by the university specifically to its international students in addition to its gift aids.
- Some of the scholarships available for international students are:
Drake University offers financial aid to its students in the form of scholarships, bursaries, FAFSA, and more. Most of the students are considered on merit-based scholarships on admission. There are no separate applications for scholarships required.
International students can also apply for various external/private scholarships to study in the USA. A glance of scholarships offered by Drake University is given below:
| Scholarship Name | Award |
|---|---|
| National Alumni Scholarship (NAS) | 3,000-10,000 USD |
| Presidential Scholarship | 21,000-25,000 USD |
| Legacy Awards | 2,500 USD |
| Roger K. Brooks Actuarial Science Scholarship | 3,500 USD |
- 98% Drake students receive $54 million+ as financial aid every year.
- Students of the university can avail the tuition exchange or waiver facilities.
Drake University Alumni
- Drake University has more than 10 alumni communities. Some of the benefits of being a part of one are listed below:
- Explore the world with the alumni community and socialise through events
- Be a part of the Legacy Programme, Ray Society and Liberty Mutual Insurance.
- Notable alumni include:
- Terry Branstad- U.S. Ambassador to China
- Lewis Lloyd- Basketball player
- Abby Finkenauer- U.S. Representative
- Steve Allen- Television personality
- Bonnie Campbell- Former Iowa Attorney General
Drake University Placements
- Drake University’s Professional and Career Development Services assist students in finding internships, drafting resumes, applications and career related guidance.
- The department organizes career workshops, seminars, fairs, networking events, interview days, etc and has what is known as a career library.
- Accomplishment rates for UG degree recipients was the highest for the College of Business and Public Administration and School of Journalism and Mass Communication (98.8%).
- The same colleges had the highest accomplishment rates for graduate degree recipients as well (100%).
- 98.1% of Drake grads find financial success within 6 months of graduation. The national average is 87.7%.
Top Drake University Graduate Salary-By Degree:
| Degree Programs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| MBA | 1,25000 USD |
| BA | 1,16000 USD |
| BSc | 92,000 USD |
FAQs
Ques. Where does Drake University stand in the U.S?
According to the US News and World Report rankings 2023, Drake University was placed at #124th place among the Best National Universities.
Ques. What is the acceptance rate at Drake University?
The acceptance rate of Drake University is 68% which makes it a moderately selective University.
Ques. What is the average tuition fee for undergraduate courses at Drake University?
The average tuition fee for undergraduate courses is around 43,000 USD and for graduate courses, it is 11,568 USD.
Ques. Does Drake University offer scholarships to international students?
Yes, international students can apply for an International Student Grant scholarship.
Ques. What are the most popular programs at Drake University?
The most popular majors at Drake University include Business, Management, Marketing, Communication, Journalism, Biological and Biomedical Sciences; Education; and Social Sciences.
Ques. Which degree at Drake University is the highest paying degree?
As per Emolument, MBA is the highest paying degree at Drake University.
Ques. How many students are enrolled at Drake University?
More than 2,800 undergraduates and 1,800 graduate students from 45 states and more than 52 countries are enrolled in the university with international students constituting around 3% of the student body.
Ques. What is the average annual salary of a Drake graduate?
According to Emolument, the average salary of a Drake graduate ranges from 92,000 USD to 125,000 USD.
Ques. Is an On-campus accommodation facility available at Drake University?
Yes, Drake University has 8 residence halls with a well-furnished room, air conditioning, cable and wireless internet, TV, common areas for hanging out with friends, etc.
Ques. What is the graduate employability Rate of Drake University?
The graduate employability rate of Drake University is 98%.
Courses & Fees
Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way
Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.
Courses
40
Fee from
₹48,16,701.72
Exams
IELTS · TOEFL
Showing 5 of 40 bachelors
Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 48.2 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 51,444 /Yr
Admission Guide
Admission Process
Drake University, a mid-sized institution is home to more than 5,000 students including international students coming from over 40 countries to study in the USA. Students planning to enroll in any of the courses can apply for its fall, spring, and summer semesters through the Drake University Application or the Common Application.
The priority deadline for international undergraduate admission is December 1 while the final deadline is March 1. Graduate applicants have varying deadlines depending on the choice of program and are encouraged to apply at least eight weeks prior to the scheduled semester start date. Some important factors influencing admission decisions include secondary school average GPA of 3.68 on 4.0, high school records, and score of the exam to study in the USA.
The university accepts SAT score of 500 and ACT score of 19 for UG degree admissions by test score pathway. Essay and interview rounds are required for admission via a test-optional pathway. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above is required for admission to graduate degree programs. Work experience is recommended for admission to a PG degree and acts as a valuable addition to the application.
Find Out: Top Rankings Universities and Colleges in the USA
Highlights
| Application Portal | Drake University Application or Common Application |
| Application Fee | No application fee |
| Academic Calendar | Semester-based |
| Intake Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer |
| Acceptance Rate | 68% |
| Accepted Test Scores | IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE/ Duolingo |
| Work Experience | Recommended for graduate programs |
| Financial Aid | Scholarships |
| Official Website | https://www.drake.edu/ |
Drake University Admission Deadlines
Applications for graduate programs are accepted for the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms. The deadlines for graduate applicants vary from program to program. International applicants are encouraged to complete applications at least 3 months before the semester start date.
Applications for online graduate programs are accepted on a rolling basis. However, candidates are recommended to apply at least 8 weeks prior to the admission deadlines of the USA Universities. However, International undergraduate applicants must ensure preparing and submitting the application and supporting documents by the deadlines mentioned below:
| Application Type | Deadlines |
|---|---|
| Early Action Priority Deadline | December 1 |
| Regular Decision | March 1 |
Drake University International Admissions
Drake University hosts more than 300 international students annually. The university has a similar application process for domestic as well as international students. In addition to the general admission requirements, international students are required to submit proof of English language proficiency. Documents from international institutions may also require English translation.
Basic Admission Requirements: International applicants must attach the following documents along with the application for admission.
- Original or certified copies of academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency- IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo
- Personal essay (optional)
- Letter of recommendation (optional but recommended)
- There are two pathways to apply to Drake University that are discussed below:
- Test score pathway - Admission by submitting SAT or ACT scores
- Test-optional pathway - Admission by submitting an essay or appearing for an admission interview.
All documents must be in English or translated exactly according to the original document.
English Proficiency Test Score for International Students
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit acceptable proof of English language proficiency to the Office of Admission. The accepted test scores and minimum requirements are specified in the table below:
| Tests | UG | PG |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL (iBT) | 71 | 79-80 |
| IELTS | 6.0 | 6.5 |
| SAT | 500 | - |
| Duolingo | 95 | - |
| ACT | 19 | - |
| PTE | 48 | - |
| IB | A score of 5-7 or a grade of A or B | - |
Applicants who wish to improve their English language skills must apply for the Intensive English Program. International applicants who fail to meet the English language proficiency requirements may be offered conditional admission with the exception of pre-pharmacy program applicants.
Visa Process for International Students
International students must be accepted by Drake University for the issuance of Form I-20 which is the main document required to apply for a visa to study in the U.S. For the issuance of an I-20, students are required to submit the following documents:
- Copy of identification page of passport
- Certificate of Finances
- After verification of the above documents, the students will be issued the I-20.
- After receiving the I-20, students must pay the SEVIS fee on the student’s SEVIS ID printed on I-20.
- A copy of the online fee payment receipt must be carried to the interview as well as while traveling to the U.S.
- International applicants can apply for an F-1 or J-1 type visa and schedule an interview by visiting the U.S. Embassy website in the applicant’s home country.
- The following documents must be carried at the time of the interview:
- Copy of Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months)
- Original Form I-20
- Acceptance letter from Drake University
- Receipt of SEVIS fee payment
- Proof of sufficient funding
- Evidence of return to your home country after completing the program
- It is advised that students must keep their passports and I-20 valid at all times.
Drake University Undergraduate Admissions
Drake University offers more than 100 majors, minors, and concentrations at the undergraduate level. Applications are assessed on the basis of GPA, test score, and curriculum. Among the admitted students, 68% graduated in the top 25% of their class and nearly 90% of the students graduated in the top 50% of their class. Below are the details of the admission process and requirements for a UG degree at Drake University.
Where to Apply: Drake University Application or Common Application
Application Fee: NA
Admission Requirements:
- Official high school transcripts are to be sent directly from the applicant’s previous institution.
- Apply through the test score pathway or test-optional pathway.
- ACT/ SAT scores if applying through the test score pathway
- Average SAT score: 1120-1370
- Average ACT score: 24-31
- Personal essay (optional)
- A letter of recommendation from a teacher or high school counselor.
- Audition (for Music or Theatre course)
- Interview
- Essay
Drake University Graduate Admissions
Drake University offers 23 master’s, doctoral and professional degree programs. International applicants are welcomed to apply for full-time PG programs at Drake University. There are certain course-specific requirements for a master’s degree that one needs to check thoroughly before applying.
Where to Apply: Online Application for Admission
Application Fee: NA
Admission Requirements: The general requirements for admission to graduate programs are as follows:
- Official transcripts from college/ university previously attended
- International applicants must submit an official course-by-course evaluation through World Education Services (WES) from each international institution attended.
- ELP score
- Resume
- Work experience
- One-page typed essay or statement of interest
- Letters of recommendation
The following table represents program-specific requirements for admission to graduate programs at Drake University:
| Requirements | MBA | Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis | Master of Science in Business Analytics (Online) | Master of Arts in Teaching (Online) | Master of Science in Health Informatics and Analytics (Online) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadline | Summer 2023 (Term 2): June 28, 2023 Fall 2023: August 23 | Priority deadline: January 15; Final deadline: July 31 | Rolling* | Rolling* | Rolling* |
| Transcripts | Required | Required, minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 | Required | Required | Required |
| GMAT/ GRE scores | Waived off for admission in 2023 | GRE scores | Not required though Summer 2023 | Not required | Not required though Summer 2023 |
| Letters of Recommendation | Two | Three | Two | Two | Two |
| Essay | One page typed essay | Statement of interest and goals in 1,000 words | One page typed essay | Statement of interest within 500-1000 words | One page typed essay |
| Resume/ CV | Required | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| Work Experience | Recommended | Recommended | Recommended | Recommended | Recommended |
| Interview | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required |
Also Check: Top Universities/ Colleges for MS in the USA
For online programs, applications are accepted on a rolling basis. However, applicants are encouraged to apply at least 8 weeks before the intended term start date.
The university has a moderately selective admission policy that takes into consideration the applicant’s academic profile. There is no rigid standard that can guarantee admission to the university. Each applicant’s profile is given due consideration for admission. Candidates who require to complete a preparatory program before progressing into the degree are offered conditional admission. However, international students are not considered for conditional admission. Students are sent final admission decisions via email. The application processing time is generally 2-5 weeks.
FAQs
Ques. What GPA is required for admission to Drake University?
An average high school GPA of 3.68 on 4.0 is required for admission to Drake University.
Ques. Is it hard to get into Drake University?
Drake University has a moderately selective admission policy. In fall 2023, it had an acceptance rate of 68%. The university considers all applications equally and importance is given to GPA, test score, and years of course taken.
Ques. What SAT/ ACT scores are required for admission to Drake University?
An average SAT score between 1120 and 1370 or an ACT score between 24 and 31 is required for admission to Drake University.
Ques. Is Drake University test-optional?
Drake University offers its students 2 pathways for admission. Students can either submit test scores and apply through the test score pathway or choose to not submit scores for admission.
Ques. What happens if I apply through the test-optional pathway?
Applicants who take the test-optional pathway will either have to submit an essay or complete an interview. Candidates can submit an essay provided in the Drake Application or Common Application. Those who choose to complete an interview will be contacted by their admission counselor to schedule an interview.
Ques. Are GMAT/ GRE scores required for admission to Drake University?
Drake University does not require GMAT/ GRE scores for admission to graduate programs in Spring 2023, Summer 2023, and Fall 2023.
Ques. Is work experience required for admission to the MBA program at Drake University?
Work experience is not required but recommended for admission to graduate programs such as MBA. Candidates with prior work experience can get an edge over the others.
Ques. What if I do not meet the English language proficiency requirements for admission to Drake University?
Students who do not meet the English language proficiency requirements for admission but qualify for admission to the university by fulfilling the academic requirements will have to apply for the Intensive English Program before beginning their studies at the university. This option does not apply to pre-pharmacy program applicants.
Ques. What are the graduation and retention rates at Drake University?
Drake University had a retention rate of 84% for full-time students and a 100% retention rate for part-time students. The university had an overall graduation rate of 78%.
Ques. How can I contact Drake University in case of queries?
Students can contact their admission counselor or the Office of Admission at Drake University at any point in the application process.
Placements & Recruiters
Drake University Placement Details
Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, United States placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.
Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.
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Rankings over the years
Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.
2019
Highlights
2019
2019
- Best overall country rank: #171
- Overall: #171 in country
- Top source: FORBES
- 1 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall
- 1 ranking record in 2019
2023
Highlights
2023
2023
- Law: #47 in country
- Top source: US News
- 2 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Law, Education
- 1 ranking record in 2023
2024
Highlights
2024
2024
- Best overall country rank: #50
- Law: #30 in country
- Top source: US News
- 3 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Law
- 1 ranking record in 2024
2025
Highlights
2025
2025
- Law: #31 in country
- Top source: US News
- 2 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Law, Education
- 1 ranking record in 2025
Contact Information
Student Reviews & Ratings
Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary
Overall score
6.9/10
Top Rated
Based on 2 ratings
Rating Breakdown
Visual summary of rating distribution and categories
Live Summary
Academic
7.5/10
Faculty
8.5/10
Infrastructure
6.5/10
Accommodation
7.5/10
Placement
8.0/10
Extracurricular
7.0/10