SMU Rewards Excellence
SMU Merit-Based Scholarships have been named among the best in the United States by
The Student Guide to America’s Best College Scholarships. We view our scholarship programs not simply as monetary awards, but as partnerships with students in developing the next generation of leaders. Listed below are some of our top University wide scholarships and programs. There also are other merit-based scholarships based within specific academic disciplines. Best of all, if you apply to SMU by
January 15, you will be considered for most of the merit-based scholarships SMU offers. No separate scholarship applications are required.
The President’s Scholars Program
Awarded to approximately 25 in coming first-year students who have shown exemplary academic and leadership skills. The award is full tuition and fees and is renewable through four years with a minimum 3.300 SMU GPA. President’s Scholars also receive full tuition and transportation for a summer, fall, or spring term, or a full year abroad on one of SMU’s study abroad programs. Recipients have special opportunities to meet distinguished scholars, dignitaries, and artists and to attend major cultural events and lectures. Eligibility criteria include an SAT score of at least 1350 (700 critical reading, 650 math) or a composite ACT score of 31 or higher. Candidates should rank in the top 10 percent of their graduating class, have completed a challenging high school curriculum, and show a demonstrated commitment to school and/or community activities. For more information, contact the Office of the Provost at 214-768-3726 or
presidents_scholars@smu.edu.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Scholars
A unique, culturally enriching program for qualifying graduates of the International Baccalaureate Organization’s Diploma Programme. Some IB Scholars are eligible for financial rewards, ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 annually as well as other merit scholarships, or up to the cost of tuition and fees. Financial rewards are based on scholars’ IB diploma exam scores. Program membership is renewable through four years with a minimum 3.000 SMU GPA at the end of each spring semester.
SMU Distinguished Scholars
SMU Distinguished Scholars receive a maximum of $30,000, up to $7,500 per year through four years. Recipients must possess a strong academic background and a well-rounded extracurricular profile. The scholarship is renewable with a minimum 3.000 SMU GPA and full-time enrollment.
University Scholars
University Scholars receive a maximum of $12,000, up to $3,000 per year through four years. Recipients must possess a strong academic background and a well-rounded extracurricular profile. The scholarship is renewable with a minimum 3.000 SMU GPA and full-time enrollment.
Departmental Scholarships
In addition to merit scholarships, SMU offers departmental scholarships from Dedman College, Cox School of Business, Meadows School of the Arts, and the School of Engineering. Departmental scholarships are awarded based on the student’s first choice major.
Financial Aid
If you are a U.S. Citizen, you are eligible to apply for federal financial aid by submitting:
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