Hilltop Scholars Program

Students who have demonstrated high academic achievement and an interest in service and leadership on their applications to SMU may be invited to join the Hilltop Scholars Program.

Welcome to the Hilltop Scholars Program, SMU's premier first-year honors community.

The Hilltop Scholars Program (HSP) offers an opportunity for high-achieving incoming students to excel academically and develop leadership skills during their first year at SMU. Admission to the program is based on students' academic achievements and interest in service and leadership. Hilltop Scholars take specific courses together to build a strong academic foundation and participate in various social, cultural, and educational events to enhance their campus experience. Additionally, HSP provides opportunities for community service projects and philanthropies in the Dallas area, allowing students to make a positive impact in their community

Lead. Give. Learn.

Featured Hilltop Scholars

Learn about the HSP community from former Scholars:

  • Tiffany Lam is an Asian American woman with long black hair past her shoulders. She wears a yellow dress with white flowers

    Tiffany Lam

    "Every individual in the program is extremely driven and passionate about making an impact in the community, so it's thrilling to know that I'm surrounded by people who are going to make the world a better place."

  • Nicholas Fontela is a white male with short brown hair. He is wearig glasses, a red and blue plaid button up, and a navy blue blazer. He has his hand up in the "Pony Up" hand sign.

    Nicholas J. Fontela

    "The Hilltop Scholars Program was an incredible way to start my academic, service, and leadership career at SMU!"

13 Students are gathered around a Scholars' Den study table writing in cards made from construction paper. On the table are Valentines-themed snacks such as cookies and strawberries.

Welcome first-year students

HSP gives some of our best and brightest incoming students the chance to shine early in their college careers and shapes them into campus leaders.

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8 students are outside with a large horse barn in the background. 4 students lead miniature horses towards the barn while the other 4 students stand by for support.

Maximize your campus experience

The Hilltop Scholars Program is a unique honors program for first-year students.

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A group of 200+ students are seated around round tables. They are engaged in various activities for a school supply drive, such as putting together packets of activities and putting art supplies in an individual bag.

Starting off on the right foot

HSP offers select courses that students can take together to form a strong academic foundation, and we host exclusive social and cultural events.

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