Drew University

Drew University is a private liberal arts university located in Madison, New Jersey, United States. Often called “The Forest” because of its wooded campus, Drew combines a close-knit university environment with access to New York City, which is about a 50-minute train ride away.

The university comprises the College of Liberal Arts, Caspersen School of Graduate Studies, and Drew Theological School. Drew reports a total enrollment of 2,224 students, including 1,626 undergraduates and 598 graduate students.

For international students planning to study in USA, Drew offers liberal arts, STEM, business, social sciences, humanities, education, and theological programs. Students considering a Bachelor’s can choose from more than 40 BA and BS majors, while those looking for a Master’s can explore graduate options such as Data Science, Finance, Education, Teaching, Medical Humanities, and Arts & Letters.

The undergraduate programs at Drew University follow a liberal arts model supported by Drew’s signature Launch experience, which connects academics with mentorship, career preparation, internships, and other experiential opportunities. The postgraduate programs at Drew University place a similar emphasis on faculty mentorship, practical experience, and professional development.

Why Study at Drew University in USA?

Students planning to study at Drew University in USA can benefit from its relatively small academic community, proximity to New York City, broad selection of programs, and career-oriented learning model.

Located in Madison, New Jersey, around 50 minutes from New York City by train.
More than 40 undergraduate BA and BS majors, alongside graduate and professional programs.
Drew’s Launch program integrates academics, mentorship, professional preparation, and experiential learning.
First-year merit scholarships currently range from $15,000 to $27,000 annually.
More than 90 student-run clubs and organizations provide opportunities to get involved outside the classroom.

Highlights

Drew offers the personal academic environment associated with a smaller liberal arts university while giving students access to professional and cultural opportunities in the New York metropolitan area. These highlights are useful for international students comparing universities to study in USA.

Acceptance Rate: Around 68%
Total Enrollment: 2,224 students
Countries Represented: 54
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1

Drew University Ranking

Drew University rankings highlight the university’s standing among liberal arts institutions in the United States, particularly for social mobility, value, and student outcomes. For international students planning a Bachelor’s or Master’s in USA, rankings can be one factor to consider alongside program quality, tuition fees, scholarships, location, and career opportunities.

Ranking Agency	Rank
U.S. News & World Report 2026	84 in National Liberal Arts Colleges 72 in Best Value Schools 7 in Top Performers on Social Mobility
The Princeton Review	Best Colleges List

Drew University Intakes

Drew University intakes vary according to study level and program. Fall is a major entry period, while Spring and Summer options are available for selected programs, particularly at graduate level.

Fall Intake: Available across undergraduate study and many graduate programs.
Spring Intake: Available for undergraduate applicants and graduate programs including Data Science, Finance, Education, Medical Humanities, and several theological degrees.
Summer Intake: Available for selected graduate programs such as Arts & Letters, Education, and Teaching, as well as certain certificate and doctoral programs.

Note: Students searching for how to apply to Drew University should begin by selecting a program and checking the relevant academic and English-language requirements. Undergraduate students can submit an application through the Common Application or applicable admissions platform. Drew uses a holistic and test-optional undergraduate admissions process.

Drew University Courses

Drew provides programs across arts, sciences, business, technology, social sciences, humanities, education, and theology. Students searching for top courses at Drew University can consider options ranging from undergraduate Computer Science and Business to professionally focused graduate degrees in Finance and Data Science.

Some notable undergraduate areas include Business, Biology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Economics, Finance, International Relations, Marketing, Neuroscience, Psychology, Public Health, and Statistics. Drew currently lists more than 40 BA and BS majors.

Some of the popular programs at Drew University are as follows:

Program	Duration	Total Tuition Fees
MS Data Science	1 Year (2 Years Part-time)	$45,300
Master of Education	2 Years	$29,250
MS in Finance	1 Year	$45,300
MA in Theology & Ministry	2 Years	$34,230
MA in Medical Humanities, Health & Society	2 – 5 Years	$45,300
Master of Sacred Theology (STM)	1 Year	$45,300
MA in Teaching	1 Year	$29,250

Cost of Studying at Drew University

The cost of studying includes tuition, university fees, accommodation, meals, books, transportation, health-related expenses, and personal spending. International students planning the wider cost of education in USA should budget beyond tuition because housing and everyday expenses can significantly affect total annual costs.

Expense Type	Estimated Cost
UG Tuition Fees	$49,550 per year
PG Tuition Fees	$30,000 – $45,000 per year
Accommodation	$930 – $1,000 per month
Food	$400 – $700 per month
Travel	$100 – $200 per month
General Expenses	$150 – $300 per month

Note: Students researching tuition fees at Drew University should check the fee schedule for their exact program because total tuition depends on the number of credits, degree type, housing choice, and other applicable charges.

Drew University Scholarships

Drew University offers scholarships and financial assistance to help make education more affordable for eligible students. International applicants with strong academic records may qualify for merit-based awards, while limited need-based support is also available.

Scholarship	Value	Details
Drew University Academic Scholarships	$15,000 to $27,000 per year	Awarded to students pursuing UG degree at university
Drew Action Scholars	$10,000 ($2,500/year)	Awarded to students pursuing UG degree at university
Drew Scholarship in the Arts	$1,500 ($6,000 over four years)	Awarded to students with demonstrated talent for Arts

International students are considered for Drew’s primary academic merit scholarships during the admission process, so a separate application is generally not required for these awards. Students looking for a scholarship to study in USA should also explore external funding opportunities alongside university-based assistance.

Scholarship amounts, eligibility criteria, and availability may change by academic year, so applicants should confirm current details on Drew University’s official website.

Drew University Admissions

Drew University admissions requirements depend on whether a student is applying for undergraduate or postgraduate study. International applicants should review their individual program because certain graduate degrees may have additional prerequisites or supporting-document requirements.

The admission requirements for Drew University generally cover academic qualifications, transcripts, supporting documents, and proof of English proficiency where applicable.

Masters

International students must have a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent for admission to a Master’s program.

Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL (iBT) – 80
IELTS – 6.5
Duolingo – 105

Additional Requirements:

You must submit your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, reference, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

International students must have a high school diploma or its equivalent for admission to a Bachelor’s in USA.

Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL (iBT) – 80
IELTS – 6.5
Duolingo – 90

Additional Requirements:

You must submit your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, reference, CV, and English language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at Drew University

Housing at Drew University provides students with a residential campus experience in Madison. Residence Life manages different housing styles, including traditional residence halls, suites, theme houses, and specialized living communities.

On-Campus Housing: Drew University offers several residential options within its Madison campus. Undergraduate residence halls include Brown Hall, Welch Hall, Tolley Hall, McClintock Hall, Foster Hall, Haselton Hall, and Riker Hall, with options ranging from traditional rooms to suites. Asbury Hall is home to Drew’s International House (i-House), a living-learning community where international and domestic students can participate in intercultural programs and activities.
Off-Campus Housing: Students who receive approval to live outside university housing can look for private apartments and shared accommodation in Madison and nearby New Jersey communities. Drew’s location near downtown Madison gives students access to local shops, restaurants and the Madison NJ Transit station, which provides direct rail connections toward New York City.

Drew University Placements

Drew University students typically pursue internships, employment, graduate study, and other professional opportunities through the university’s career-development ecosystem.

Career support at Drew University is provided through the Center for Career Development and the wider Launch experience. Students have access to career advising, Handshake, internship and job opportunities, résumé development, career exploration tools, employer networking, interview preparation, and graduate-school guidance.

Drew’s proximity to New York City also allows students to pursue internships and professional networking in one of the largest employment markets in the United States. Graduate students, including those in Finance, can access industry-oriented experiences and connections with New York-area organizations.

The alumni network at Drew University can also support career exploration. Drew Connect helps students engage with alumni for professional insights, résumé advice, industry exploration, interview skills, and networking.

Some of the top recruiters at Drew are as follows:

JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Goldman Sachs
Deloitte
PwC
KPMG
EY
Johnson & Johnson
Merck
Pfizer
Amazon
Google
Prudential Financial
Bank of America
New York-Presbyterian
State of New Jersey

Student Essential Services

Drew provides academic, personal, health, international, residential, and career resources designed to support students throughout university life. International student support at Drew University is particularly important for students adjusting to the academic, cultural, and immigration requirements of studying in the United States.

International Student & Scholar Services: Provides orientation, immigration-related guidance, individual advising, cultural programming, guidance on US student visa, and assistance adjusting to life in the United States.
Academic Support: Students can access academic resources through services such as the Center for Academic Excellence, library, writing and tutoring resources.
Career Development: Handshake, internships, job-search resources, résumé assistance, career exploration, networking, and graduate-school preparation are available through the Center for Career Development.
Counselling & Wellbeing: Counseling and Psychological Services offers group programs and short-term individual counseling to Drew students.
Health Services: Students have access to primary healthcare and health education through Drew University Health Service.
Clubs & Organizations: More than 90 student-run clubs and organizations allow students to explore academic, cultural, social, recreational, and leadership interests.
Housing Support: Residence Life supports students living on campus through professional staff, Community Advisors, programming, and residential resources.
Student Employment: On-campus opportunities include regular student employment and Federal Work-Study for eligible students. International students should confirm F-1 employment rules before accepting work.

Location of Drew University

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Drew University offer STEM-designated programs for international students?

Yes. Drew offers STEM-designated graduate options, including the MS in Finance and MS in Data Science. International students should confirm the current STEM designation of their chosen program before applying.

What is the average class size at Drew University?

Drew is known for relatively small classes and has an undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. The smaller academic environment can provide students with greater opportunities to interact with professors and participate in class discussions.

Can Drew University students complete internships in New York City?

Yes. Drew’s proximity to New York City makes internships in the city a practical option for some students. The university’s career services and Launch experience also help students explore internships, professional connections, and experiential learning opportunities.

What is the Launch program at Drew University?

Launch is Drew’s approach to connecting classroom learning with career preparation and real-world experiences. Students can work with mentors, explore career interests, participate in internships, and develop professional skills alongside their degree.

Are first-year students required to live on campus at Drew University?

Drew has residency requirements for many undergraduate students, although exemptions may apply in certain circumstances. Students should check the university’s current Residence Life policies before making housing arrangements.

What facilities are available for international students on campus?

International students can access academic advising, career services, health and counselling resources, student organizations, residential facilities, and support from International Student & Scholar Services. Drew also has an International House (i-House) that promotes interaction between international and domestic students.

What can students do in Madison outside the Drew University campus?

Downtown Madison offers restaurants, cafés, shops, parks, and local services close to the university. Students can also use the nearby rail connection to explore New York City, giving Drew students a combination of a smaller college-town setting and access to a major metropolitan area.

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