Frequently Asked Questions: PhD Admissions

How much is the application fee?: We do not charge an application fee as we understand this may be a barrier for applicants.
How many letters of recommendation do I need, and by whom should they be written?: Two (2). We suggest that letters be written by academics or individuals who are in a position to assess your likelihood of success in a research-oriented program.
Do I need to send official transcripts to the admissions office?: No, we do not require official transcripts during the application process. Please upload all transcripts and degree certificates to the online application.
Is there a word limit to the Personal Statement/Essay?: We prefer that applicants keep their statements to a maximum of 1500 words. Faculty appreciate applicants who can concisely describe their fitness for our PhD program.
What are the institution codes for the GMAT, GRE, and TOEFL exams?: The GMAC code for the PhD program is: 6GJ-QT-99

The ETS code (GRE) for the PhD program is: 2194
When do GRE/GMAT results expire?: The exam must have been taken within five (5) years of the submission date of the Drexel online application. For example, if you took the exam on December 1, 2017, you would need to complete the Drexel application no later than December 1, 2022.
If I am not from the United States or another English-speaking country, do I need to take an English proficiency exam?: International applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from a university in which English is the medium of instruction can be exempt from this requirement. Otherwise, we accept TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo exams to meet this requirement.
What is the minimum TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo score required?: The minimum TOEFL score is 90 or higher, with 22 or better in Speaking and Listening. For the IELTS, the score should be a 6.5 overall minimum with 6.5 or higher in Speaking and Listening. The Duolingo English Test will be accepted with a recommended minimum of 115.
What is the average GMAT or GRE score for admitted applicants?: Average GRE Quantitative: 161

Average GRE Verbal: 155

Average GRE Writing: 3.25

Average GMAT total: 688
What is the average GPA for admitted applicants?: Average undergraduate: 3.58

Average graduate: 3.77
How many people are usually admitted to the program each year?: The program is highly competitive. We receive upwards of 300 applications each year and the total intake can range from 12-16 students.
Do I need a master’s degree to apply for the PhD program?: A master’s degree is not a requirement to apply for the PhD Program. The LeBow College of Business seeks applicants with exceptional ability and motivation who can succeed in a research-oriented program.
Will I be offered a position as a teacher’s assistant (TA) or research assistant (RA)?: All admitted applicants are offered a five-year TA/RA position which provides a five-year funding package contingent on satisfactory progress in the program.
Should I submit research papers or writing samples?: A writing sample is not required. However, papers that you have written or that have been published are welcomed to support your application.
Can I work while I am in the program?: The Drexel LeBow PhD program is a full-time program and is not geared toward working professionals. We do not have a part-time program option. However, Drexel LeBow does have the Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) degree program which is a part-time executive doctoral program that is geared toward industry professionals.
When will I find out whether I am accepted or denied admission?: You will be informed of a decision via email on or before April 15. Once you have been notified that a decision has been made, you will be advised to access your decision letter via the application portal.

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