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subjectMatters1
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Admissions

My 11th grader applied to the SMU x STARS Fly-In program and was waitlisted. Does being waitlisted usually mean there’s a real chance of getting in, or is it typically a soft rejection? Also, does submitting the waitlist form early or reaching out with questions help at all? Any insight appreciated

If your 11th grader has been waitlisted for the SMU x STARS Fly-In program, it is important to understand that this status reflects a competitive application. While spots are currently unavailable, the admissions committee recognizes potential in the application, and students are often admitted from the waitlist if confirmed attendees decline their spots.

Chances of Admission

  • Waitlisted students are not rejected; they may still gain admission if spots open up. Historical acceptance rates from the waitlist at SMU have varied, with rates ranging from 0.2% to 17.1% in recent years.
  • The waitlist is not ranked, meaning all students who submit the waitlist response form are considered equally when spots become available.
Submitting the Waitlist Form
  • It is mandatory to submit the Waitlist Response Form to remain in consideration. While submitting early is encouraged, it does not guarantee a first-come advantage since the list is not ranked.
Reaching Out
  • Demonstrating continued interest by contacting your SMU Admission Counselor can be beneficial. You may also provide updates on any significant achievements or changes since your original application, such as new awards or improved grades, which can enhance your application’s competitiveness. Asking thoughtful questions about the program can also show engagement and interest.
For more details, you can refer to the official SMU waitlist page here.

Recent questions at Southern Methodist University

Gale
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Admissions

Does SMU do a incoming student event for incoming freshman before summer?

Southern Methodist University (SMU) offers a series of events known as Destination SMU, specifically designed for admitted incoming freshmen prior to their summer or fall enrollment. These events provide a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in campus life, connect with fellow Mustangs, and gain insights into housing and campus traditions.

Key Dates

The Destination SMU events for the upcoming 2026 academic year are scheduled as follows:

  • Monday, February 23
  • Friday, March 6
  • Friday, March 27
  • Monday, April 13
  • Monday, April 27
Additional Opportunities

In addition to Destination SMU, other spring events include:

  • Admitted Student Days: Featuring academic breakout sessions with deans and professors.
  • SpringFest: An introductory event for high school students and their families, taking place on February 16, 2026.
For registration and more information, students can visit the Admitted Student Portal or the SMU Admitted Student Events page for a comprehensive list of both virtual and in-person options Source.
twise39
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Housing

How does my student complete a mutual roommate request in the SMU Housing Portal

Students at Southern Methodist University can complete a mutual roommate request through the SMU Housing Portal by following a straightforward process.

Request Process

  1. Search for Roommate: In the "Roommates" section of the housing application, students should enter the SMU ID number of their preferred roommate.
  2. Send Request: After locating the desired roommate, the student sends a request via the portal. The requested roommate will receive an email notification regarding this request.
  3. Confirm Mutual Request: For the request to be considered mutual, the second student must log into the portal and accept the request. Only when both students have accepted each other will the request be recorded in the system.
Important Deadlines
  • Returning Students: Requests must be completed by March 1.
  • Incoming First-Year Students: Requests typically open on April 1 and must be finalized by June 1.
Key Requirements
  • Both students must have a completed housing application on file.
  • Students are limited to one mutual roommate request.
  • Returning residents cannot request incoming students as roommates, except for siblings.
For further details, students can refer to the Housing Reapplication Guide or the SMU Housing FAQ page.
Anonymous
•This response has been verified in line with school guidance.
Admissions

How can we book a tour for an incoming freshman? Also is there an overnight orientation for freshmen?

Booking a campus tour and understanding orientation options at Southern Methodist University (SMU) is essential for incoming freshmen.

Booking a Campus Tour

To schedule a campus tour, incoming freshmen can choose from several options:

  • Admitted Student Visits: These include a 30-minute information session followed by a 75-minute campus tour led by a current student. Reservations can be made through the Admitted Student Visit Portal.
  • Daily Visits: Standard tours are available Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Registration is required via the SMU Daily Visit form.
  • Virtual Tours: For those unable to visit in person, SMU offers a Virtual Campus Experience with interactive highlights and live sessions.
Freshman Orientation Options

SMU provides a multi-step orientation process:

  • Mustang StartUp: This mandatory virtual orientation helps students navigate class registration and campus resources before arrival.
  • RoundUp: An optional extended orientation lasting 3 days and 2 nights, designed to foster community through excursions and small-group activities. More details can be found on the SMU Orientation and Transitions website.
  • Stampede: An in-person welcome event held just before the semester begins.
For further information on dates and registration, please visit the respective portals mentioned above.
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