Overview
Drake University is a less selective private four-year institution in Des Moines, Iowa. The school accepts 67.2% of applicants and enrolls 2,669 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 67.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,225
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,110–1,340
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 28
- Total Enrollment
- 2,669
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Drake University operates on rolling admissions, so submit your application early in the fall to maximize your chances and scholarship opportunities. The admissions committee reviews applications as they arrive, making decisions within weeks rather than months.
Your application should highlight community involvement and leadership experience. Drake places considerable weight on how you've contributed to your high school or local community, so detail specific roles where you took ownership of projects or initiatives. The university's culture centers around active participation, from student government to Greek life to service organizations.
Business and pharmacy programs draw many applicants, but Drake's journalism school offers strong hands-on experience with the campus newspaper and radio station. If you're interested in these competitive programs, mention specific faculty research or facilities like the Cowles Library's media resources in your supplemental essays. The Honors Program requires a separate application with additional essays, but provides small seminar classes and priority registration.
Drake's Des Moines location creates unique internship and networking opportunities, particularly for business, journalism, and political science students. Many students work at local corporations, government offices, or media outlets during the school year. Your essays should connect your academic interests to these real-world applications available in Iowa's capital city.
Campus culture skews preprofessional and involved. Greek life influences social actives significantly, though non-Greek students find their place through residence halls, academic clubs, and Drake's strong athletic programs. Students tend to be ambitious and career-focused while maintaining Midwestern friendliness.
Submit test scores if they strengthen your application, as Drake is test-optional. Your transcript matters most, but course selection counts too. Take challenging classes in your intended major area, especially for competitive programs like pharmacy or business.
Write your supplemental essays with specificity about Drake's programs rather than generic statements about college life. Research particular professors, study abroad options, or campus organizations that align with your goals. Admissions officers can spot recycled essays immediately.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $30,042/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $49,944
- Students Receiving Aid
- 21%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 77.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $71,901/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Drake University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Drake University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Drake University?
Drake University has a rolling admissions policy with a priority deadline of March 1. Applications submitted by this date receive priority consideration for admission and merit scholarships.
Does Drake University offer Early Decision or Early Action programs?
Drake University does not offer Early Decision or Early Action programs. All applications are reviewed through their rolling admissions process.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Drake University?
Drake University accepts up to 64 credit hours from two-year colleges and up to 94 credit hours from four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete at least 32 credit hours at Drake to earn their degree.