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

What are the best scholarships? Anything else we can do to lower tuition? Appreciate a list of the best options for smu

To manage the tuition costs at Southern Methodist University (approximately $69,722), students can explore various scholarships and financial aid options.

Top Merit-Based Scholarships

  • President’s Scholars: Covers full tuition and fees, plus a study abroad experience.
  • Nancy Ann and Ray L. Hunt Leadership Scholars: Approximately 75% of tuition and fees for students with exceptional leadership and academic achievements.
  • Provost Scholarship: Up to $120,000 ($30,000 per year) for students with outstanding academic credentials.
  • SMU Distinguished Scholarship: Up to $100,000 ($25,000 per year) based on a holistic review of the admissions application.
  • Second Century Scholarship: Up to $80,000 ($20,000 per year) for academically successful students.
Additional Financial Aid Options
  • Need-Based Aid: Submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile by January 15, 2026, to be considered for federal, state, and SMU-funded aid.
  • Grants: Eligible students may receive the Federal Pell Grant or Texas Tuition Equalization Grant.
  • Dallas County Mustang Scholarship: Full tuition for high-achieving Dallas County residents.
  • ROTC Scholarships: Full-tuition scholarships through Army or Air Force ROTC partnerships.
Application Deadlines

Most scholarships require submission of the SMU admission application by January 15, 2026, with additional requirements for specific scholarships like essays or video statements for the Hunt Leadership Scholarship.

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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