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Drake Online Frequently Asked Questions

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General FAQ  |  Admission FAQ  |  Tuition FAQ


General FAQ

At Drake University, our goal is to ensure that our students have everything they need to succeed and make the most of their experience. If you are considering a Drake online program and have questions that are not answered by the resources provided below, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can email us directly at drakeonline@drake.edu. Additionally, you can call the general Drake phone line at 1-800-44-DRAKE. 

Where is the campus located?

Drake University is located at 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311. You can find out more information about Drake the Des Moines area here.

Is the diploma different for online students?

It is not. The diploma is the same for all graduates, whether their program was completed online or at our campus location.

What is the University’s Accreditation?

You can learn about Drake University’s accreditations here.

Does Drake have a Live Mascot?

We sure do! Learn more about Griff II over on his website.


Admissions FAQ

Do you provide credits for work experience?

Although work experience is not accepted as course credit, students may apply transfer credits from prior coursework toward their program of interest. Be sure to talk with an admissions advisor about whether you can transfer credits toward your program and, if so, how to move forward.

Do you accept transfer credits?

For graduate programs, we accept transfer credits for coursework with appropriate accreditation that students completed within the last five years. This option helps reduce your total tuition and the time you spend earning the degree. To learn more, review the details of the program you want to enroll in.

Who can I speak with about specific admissions questions?

Our enrollment team is available to answer any questions you may have specific to admissions. Email us at drakeonline@drake.edu for assistance. 

How do I apply?

You can easily start your online application now.

Do I need all aspects of my application completed before applying?

You are not required to have all documents ready when you start your application. However, to be considered for admission, you will need to have all items submitted.

What if I have problems while completing the application?

If you have issues with our online application system, email us at drakeonline@drake.edu

How long does the application process usually take?

Obtaining transcripts, securing letters of recommendation, writing personal statements and the like have variable lengths of time associated with them, so you should start them as soon as possible. Once your application file is complete, it typically takes 3–5 days to review and answer whether you’ve been accepted to the program. 

What are your start dates?

Our programs follow an accelerated schedule that allow you to start at almost any point in the year that works for you, meaning you don't have to wait to get started. You can find the general calendar of start dates, application deadlines, and registration deadlines below. Please note that the exception is our Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology which only has a fall start date. 

 Semester Start Date Application Deadline Registration Deadline
Spring Term 1 01/26/26 01/19/26 01/22/26
Spring Term 2 03/23/26 03/16/26 03/19/26
Summer Term 1 05/18/26 05/11/26 05/14/26

Tuition and Fees FAQ

What is the cost of tuition & fees? 

Tuition and fees can be found here.

How do I pay for college?

Financial aid is available for students who qualify and we encourage you to learn more about completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.

Drake also participates in various federal and state programs offering educational benefits for military service. For more information, visit Drake’s Veterans’ Affairs webpage.

Additional payment options including payment plans, tuition waivers for Drake employees, and employer deferment can be found by visiting the payment options webpage.

Who can I speak to about financial aid options?

Drake University’s experienced financial aid staff will help you identify the financial options available to you to help make investing in your future possible and can be reached at financialaid@drake.edu or 1-800-44-DRAKE (Option 3).