SMU's Talented and Gifted program (TAG) offers intellectual challenges and exciting learning experiences to academically accelerated students completing the seventh, eighth, or ninth grade.
Students participate in two courses chosen from a selection which includes both noncredit and college credit courses. Students with particularly strong academic profiles, including high SAT or ACT scores, are encouraged to take a college credit course as one of their two choices.
Course topics may include computer science, mathematics, political science, economics, geography, physics, paleontology, law, medical science, ethics, literature, writing, life science, psychology, art history, humanities, and performing arts.
Academic development is carefully balanced with a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
TAG teachers come from a variety of academic sources. Most are either on the faculty of SMU or on the faculties of outstanding public and private secondary schools. Some, however, are professionals (in fields other than education) who have valuable experience and knowledge to contribute to the TAG curricula.
TAG applicants must have completed grade 7, 8, or 9. Candidates must submit an academic transcript of the last grade completed, two recommendations, an SAT or ACT score, and personal essay(s). 2009 cost is $2900. This includes tuition, room and board (including linen service), books, and most supplies. Limited numbers of scholarships are awarded on the basis of need.
The Application Form is available for download in PDF format. Download PDF Application Form now.
The Gifted Students
Institute office is now located at
6060 Central Expressway Suite 642, Dallas, TX 75206.