Application Requirements and Deadlines

Acceptance for graduate study requires a four-year bachelor's degree in physics or a related field from an accredited institution in the United States or an equivalent international institution. Strong undergraduate preparation in the core areas of physics (classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical physics and quantum mechanics) is a prerequisite. Acceptance typically requires a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (B) for the last two years of undergraduate work. The average for any graduate work must be at least 3.0.

Experience and interest in doing research is highly valued, although we understand that not all undergraduate institutions offer such opportunities. It is important that the research interests of the applicant are well matched to the research areas of our faculty.

General GRE scores are not required. The GRE physics exam is recommended but not required. No minimum score is used in evaluations.

We will start reviewing the applications on December 15 but will give full consideration for both admission and financial support to applications that are complete by January 15. Outstanding applicants may be considered for additional fellowships. The department accepts applications for admission for the fall quarter only. Please note, an application fee of $65 U.S. is required. For more information about fee waiver options, please contact the program director, Brigita Urbanc, atbu25@drexel.edu.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first or native language is not English and who do not hold a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution are required to submit English proficiency test scores as part of their application. We recognize the internet-based test (iBT) of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Minimum TOEFL scores of foreign applicants are usually 600 (PBT), 250 (CBPT), 100 (IBT) or higher. The listening part of the test is particularly important. If you are taking the TOEFL, request the scores to be sent directly to Drexel University; the institutional code for ETS is 2194. TOEFL scores must be less than two years old to be considered. IELTS scores may be submitted in lieu of TOEFL scores (minimum overall band score 7.0).

Financial Support

We award highly-qualified PhD students with financial support in the form of teaching or research fellowships. Both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens are eligible and must be enrolled as full-time graduate students. Fellowship support includes both full tuition and an annual stipend. We will give full consideration for both admission and financial support to applications that are complete by January 15. Outstanding applicants may be considered for additional fellowships.

Teaching Fellowship (TF) duties vary widely and may involve assisting a faculty member in a course or as instructor in an introductory course. A Research Fellowship (RF) supports a student doing research in a specific research group. Funding for RF’s usually comes from federal, foundation or industrial support awarded to a faculty member or to a laboratory. These appointments are generally for the full academic year. Renewal of teaching and research fellowships is subject to the students remaining in good standing and making satisfactory progress toward their degree.

Students are strongly encouraged to apply for external grants and competitive scholarships. Faculty will assist students in developing funding proposals. Be sure to take note of funding application deadlines and allow sufficient time to discuss funding proposals with your adviser.

For other financial options, visit drexel.edu/grad/financing.

How to Apply

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all materials required for the evaluation of the application are received by the Office of Admissions before the deadline. If your application is incomplete by the deadline date, it may not be evaluated for the term requested. The complete list of materials can be found on the Drexel University Graduate Admissions website.