Paying for college can be a complicated equation. At SMU, we’re interested in finding solutions. Our financial aid advisers offer personal attention to payment plans. With all these options, finding the right answer might not be as hard as you think.

How to Apply for Financial Aid

• Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), listing SMU (school code 003613) to receive the results. The FAFSA application process can be completed electronically if both the student and the family secure personal identification numbers from www.pin.ed.gov before completing the FAFSA. Otherwise, you must remember to print, sign, and mail the signature page.
   
• Submit the College Scholarship Service (CSS/PROFILE®) to be considered for institutional need-based aid. The CSS/Profile can be found online at profileonline.collegeboard.com. The school code for SMU is 6660.
   
• Respond promptly to notices of missing information and/or requests for additional documentation.
   
• Pay admission deposit by May 1 because institutional financial aid is subject to change after that date.
   
• The CSS/PROFILE® and FAFSA must be filed each year for continued financial aid consideration.
   
• Award notifications will be sent to entering first-year students between March 15 and April 15. Transfer students will receive notifications after admission decisions are made, typically in early summer. Students’ files completed after posted deadlines will be handled on a rolling basis.
   
• For more detailed information on the various types of financial aid that may be available, visit the Financial Aid Web site or contact your Financial Aid Adviser.
   
• Award notifications will include further instructions as appropriate for the awards contained.

The SMU Monthly Payment Plan enables families to pay annual expenses in 10 interest-free installments beginning in June. This includes any tuition, fees, and room and board charges not covered by financial aid. The only cost for this service is a nonrefundable $50 application fee. Call Academic Management Services (AMS) at 1-800-635-0120 for an application. Questions? Call SMU Student Account Services at 1-800-323-0672 or visit us online.