Polyelectrolyte-based draw solution(PBDS) exhibit high osmotic pressure, and low reverse solute leakage, which are highly demanded in forward osmosis process. Additionally, various separation methods such as nanofiltration, ultrafiltration and thermal treatment can be utilized for its recycle, rendering PBDS an ideal substitute for the traditional inorganic draw solution such as sodium chloride. In the past two decades, research works concerning PBDS have been intensively reported. Because PBDS has distinctive properties in comparison with inorganic draw solution, thus, it is necessary to review these developments in PBDS and present an outline. This paper aims to review the recent developments in PBDS in consideration of their chemical structures, which are categorized into carboxylate type, sulfonate type, amine type and amide type. In the beginning, the general considerations for an ideal PBDS are introduced. Subsequently, the molecular weight of the polyelectrolytes, the osmotic pressure and viscosity of the draw solutions, the water flux and reverse solute leakage in forward osmosis process are introduced in detail. The corresponding mechanisms of forward osmosis are also described. Finally, the characteristics, advantages and drawbacks of the PBDS are summarized, and the opportunities and challenges are discussed.