International Applicants

SMU Cox is extremely proud of our diverse student body.

Within the two-year full-time MBA program, approximately 15-20% of current students are of international origin. Students from around the world bring fresh perspectives, unique experiences and diversity in the classroom discussions. They enable cultural understanding and international business flavor in MBA life.

SMU Cox has a strong international alumni network with presence in 30+ countries across the globe and over 40,000 members.

International students can expect our commitment to support them even before the first day of the class. We provide continued support throughout the MBA journey to our international students to make their MBA experience truly amazing, enabling each student to reach their goals.

Once admitted, the Cox School of Business makes every effort to ensure a smooth transition for incoming international students. This support continues throughout your time at SMU. A few examples:

  • International Student and Scholar Services: assistance with your visa application, workshops on relevant topics and special events for all international students attending all programs at SMU.
  • International Student Orientation: In August for our incoming international students in addition to the general student orientation.

Academic Background & Transcripts

The completion of at least a 3-year Bachelor's degree with evidence of strong and consistent academic performance is required.

Required Documentation

Your transcripts must contain the following information: name of degree-granting university, date degree was granted, course of study, and a listing of all courses taken and grades/marks earned in them. Please make sure that your submitted documents reflect this required information. If your academic transcripts are not in English, you must submit a notarized, official English translation. Notarized copies may be sent instead of the original transcripts.

Financial Certification & Student Visa

All international students must submit a Financial Certification Form (FCF) prior to receiving their I-20 visa paperwork from SMU. The FCF requires students to demonstrate proof of ability to pay for the first year of the program. The sooner we receive a completed FCF and all other visa paperwork from you, the quicker we are able to send you the I-20 so you can continue through the visa process.

FCF Forms are provided to international students at the time of an offer of admission; information is neither required nor requested prior to that time. An I-20 is issued only after you have been admitted to the Cox MBA Program, provided the $2000 tuition deposit and have verification of adequate financial support. Submitting the FCF before the date due, completed according to the guidelines outlined, will significantly expedite issuance of the I-20 Form. 

English Proficiency Requirement

TOEFL/IELTS Requirement

Students whose native language is not English can take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)*. TOEFL scores are valid for two years. Our TOEFL institution code is 6660.

The IELTS may be taken in place of TOEFL. If your score report is more than two years old, it is no longer valid. We do not accept any other score reports.

*For upcoming entry terms, SMU Cox will continue a test-optional policy for all MBA and Specialized Masters programs. For the benefits of taking a test, click here to learn more.*