Drexel University Nursing Acceptance Rate And Requirements (2025)

Posted on Author Brian Philips

If you’re considering applying to Drexel University’s College of Nursing and Health Professions, one of the most important questions you may have is: what are my chances of getting in, and what do I need to qualify? Nursing programs are among the most competitive majors at U.S. universities, and Drexel is no exception.

This guide covers Drexel University’s nursing acceptance rate, program requirements, curriculum details, NCLEX pass rates, and tips for applicants. Whether you’re a first-year student, a transfer, or an international applicant, this blogpost will give you everything you need to know before applying.

Drexel University Nursing Acceptance Rate

Drexel University is considered a moderately selective institution. As of recently, the overall undergraduate acceptance rate was about 77.5%. This figure reflects the university as a whole, across all majors.

However, nursing is traditionally more competitive than the university’s average because of limited clinical placements, high demand, and strict state accreditation requirements.

Nursing-Specific Acceptance Rate

Drexel does not publicly release a separate “nursing acceptance rate.” Still, available information gives us a picture:

  • Student forums report that Drexel admits broadly at the university level, but attrition rates are high during the nursing program due to strict GPA and science requirements.
  • Applicants with GPAs in the 3.2–3.8 range appear to have the strongest chances.
  • For transfers into nursing, Drexel requires a minimum GPA of 2.75 and “C” or better in science prerequisites.

Taking these factors into account, experts estimate Drexel’s nursing acceptance rate falls between 60% and 80% — slightly lower than the overall university rate, but higher than extremely selective programs like Penn Nursing or NYU.

Bottom line: Admission to Drexel Nursing is achievable, but you’ll need solid academics, especially in sciences, and strong preparation to stay competitive.

Drexel University Nursing Requirements

Admission into Drexel’s nursing programs requires meeting both the general university admission standards and program-specific prerequisites. Let’s break it down.

1. General Admission Requirements

All applicants to Drexel must submit:

  • Official high school transcript or equivalent
  • GPA (competitive applicants often have 3.2 or higher)
  • SAT/ACT scores (optional; Drexel is test-optional but good scores can strengthen your profile)
  • Letters of recommendation (ideally from teachers in science or math)
  • Personal essay highlighting interest in nursing
  • Extracurriculars (volunteering, healthcare-related activities, leadership)
  • English proficiency tests for international students (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)

2. Nursing Prerequisites (BSN)

Students entering the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program must complete:

  • Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs)
  • General Chemistry (I & II)
  • Microbiology (with lab)
  • College Algebra or Statistics
  • English Composition I & II
  • General/Developmental Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Nutrition
  • Humanities and electives

Important: Science prerequisites must usually be completed within five years of admission.

3. Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) Program

The ACE BSN program is an 11-month intensive option for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree. Requirements include:

  • Completion of all nursing prerequisites before enrollment
  • Minimum GPA of ~3.0 for competitive consideration
  • TOEFL iBT score of 79 (speaking 26+) or IELTS 6.5 (speaking 7.5+) for international students
  • Strong academic performance in science prerequisites

4. RN to BSN Program

For licensed nurses looking to complete a bachelor’s degree:

  • Must hold a valid RN license
  • Minimum GPA requirement (usually 2.0+) from previous college work
  • At least 60 transferable credits
  • Program is offered online or hybrid for working nurses

5. Internal Progression Standards

Once admitted, Drexel nursing students must:

  • Maintain minimum overall and science GPAs
  • Earn at least a “C” in all nursing courses
  • Pass clearance requirements (background checks, immunizations, drug screenings)
  • Meet eligibility to continue into clinical rotations

Failure to meet these benchmarks can delay graduation or result in dismissal from the program.

Drexel Nursing Program Options

Drexel offers multiple pathways for future nurses:

  1. BSN (4-Year, Co-op Option) – Includes classroom work, clinicals, and a paid six-month co-op in the third year.
  2. BSN (5-Year, 3 Co-op Option) – Extended pathway with more hands-on experiences.
  3. Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) BSN – For bachelor’s degree holders who want to transition into nursing in just 11 months.
  4. RN to BSN Online Program – Designed for working registered nurses seeking a bachelor’s degree.

Curriculum and Program Structure

Drexel’s nursing curriculum combines science foundations, nursing theory, and clinical experience.

Credit Load & Coursework

  • BSN requires about 181 credits.
  • Courses include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, health assessment, community health, pediatrics, psychiatric nursing, and leadership.

Co-op & Clinical Training

  • Drexel’s co-op model allows students to gain paid clinical experience before graduation.
  • Clinical rotations are offered in top hospitals across Philadelphia and surrounding areas.
  • Simulation labs prepare students for real-world patient care.

NCLEX Pass Rates

Drexel has strong outcomes:

  • NCLEX pass rate: 98.73% (traditional BSN)
  • ACE program pass rate: 96.63%

These figures are above national averages, showing Drexel’s nursing program prepares students effectively for licensure.

Challenges of Drexel Nursing

While Drexel has a solid reputation, prospective students should be aware of challenges:

  • Rigorous coursework: Many students struggle with science-heavy classes in the first two years.
  • High attrition: Some students leave the program if they fail to maintain GPA requirements.
  • Intense clinical schedules: Nursing rotations demand long hours, sometimes conflicting with personal obligations.
  • Competitive progression: Even after admission, students must pass internal “gates” to move into upper-level nursing.

Tips for Strengthening Your Application

  1. Excel in Science Courses – Strong grades in biology, chemistry, and anatomy show readiness.
  2. Maintain a Competitive GPA – Aim for 3.5+ if possible; the higher your GPA, the better.
  3. Get Healthcare Experience – Volunteering at hospitals or clinics strengthens your personal statement.
  4. Write a Compelling Essay – Share your passion for nursing and resilience in challenges.
  5. Plan Ahead – Complete prerequisites early and meet deadlines (Oct 15 & Apr 15 for ACE).
  6. Submit Test Scores if Strong – Even though optional, solid SAT/ACT scores may give you an edge.
  7. Have a Backup Plan – Apply to multiple nursing programs to keep options open.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What GPA do I need for Drexel Nursing?
A: A GPA of at least 3.2 makes you competitive. For transfers, the minimum is 2.75.

Q: Is Drexel test-optional?
A: Yes, but submitting SAT/ACT scores can strengthen your application.

Q: How long is the ACE program?
A: The accelerated BSN is 11 months, one of the fastest in the country.

Q: Can international students apply?
A: Yes. English proficiency tests are required unless you studied in English.

Q: What is Drexel’s NCLEX pass rate?
A: Nearly 99% for BSN and 96% for ACE (2023 figures).

Conclusion

Drexel University’s nursing program offers a unique blend of rigorous academics, hands-on co-op training, and strong outcomes on the NCLEX exam. With an estimated acceptance rate between 60% and 80%, the program is accessible to well-prepared students but still competitive.

If you’re passionate about nursing, Drexel provides a career-launching platform — but you’ll need excellent academic preparation, strong time management, and dedication to thrive.

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