Program Features

Welcome to SMU College Access Programs. Our staff is committed to providing a nurturing and caring environment to ensure that each student is provided with a quality opportunity in education, regardless of race or ethnic background. It is our goal to help disadvantaged students overcome academic and financial barriers in higher education by providing:

  • Academic planning for successful high school completion and college transition
  • Tutoring for high school courses
  • ACT and SAT preparation
  • Writing, reading, and study skills, mathematics, science, and other subjects instruction
  • Career exploration and guidance
  • College and university visits
  • Educational and cultural enrichment events
  • Financial aid and scholarship application assistance
  • Financial literacy education
*Services and activities will vary by program

Upon entering our program, all students are assisted in setting achievement goals that will help their dreams become reality. We empower our students to become successful college graduates working in businesses, government, medicine, law, education, research, finance, politics, computer science, technology, engineering and other areas.

Educational Talent Search

Education Talent Search (ETS) assists high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds and who have the potential to succeed in higher education. Students receive academic mentoring and coaching from SMU Education Talent Search staff. The program includes a Summer Academic Component, College Tours and College Transition Planning.

McNair Scholars

The Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program at Southern Methodist University combines faculty mentoring, undergraduate research, and academic support services to prepare and engage SMU students academically and encourage them to purse postgraduate studies.

Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math Science

Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math Science are pre-collegiate programs that work with students throughout high school and into their freshmen year of college. Upward Bound assists students by offering academic support services that ensure the successful transition from high school to college. Upward Bound students have weekly contact with the Southern Methodist University Upward Bound Staff. With a 98% success rate, SMU Upward Bound is committed to helping students discover their Best Fit College. Upward Bound is FREE and designed to help high school students be successful.