Southern Methodist University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At SMU, the 63% admit rate means your target should be more than admission: with tuition over $67,000 and average merit awards around $27,000, test scores can matter for scholarship positioning. Aim for the 1340 to 1480 SAT range, or 30 to 34 ACT, to clear benchmarks like Hunt Leadership Scholars’ 1330 SAT or 29 ACT.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Southern Methodist University facts and stats
Southern Methodist University enrolls about 7,285 undergraduates in a suburban campus setting. SMU has a 91% freshman retention rate, well above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 84%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1.
Dallas, TX
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Key Southern Methodist University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
July 31
Early Action
November 1
Early Decision
November 1
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
February 15
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional SMU, take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then reserve the summer before senior year and the fall for retakes that could improve your score or superscore. For SMU’s November 1 Early Decision and Early Action deadline, plan on the October SAT or ACT as your last fall retake likely to arrive in time, especially if you are aiming for the Hunt Leadership Scholars Program’s 1330+ SAT or 29+ ACT benchmark.
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What you'll actually pay
SMU’s tuition and fees are $67,040, with 33% of students receiving aid. The average merit award is $27,376, offering a meaningful scholarship opportunity for eligible students. Submit the FAFSA by the February 15 priority deadline to be considered for financial aid.
SMU’s listed cost of attendance is about $86,184, including $67,040 in tuition and fees and $19,144 for room and board. About 33% of students receive aid, with an average aid package of $62,094. Merit awards average $27,376, and some scholarships list thresholds such as SAT 1330+, ACT 29+, or GPA 2.50+. Average debt at graduation is $37,758.
Student life at Southern Methodist University
50% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 38% of men join fraternities, and 44% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TXAcceptance rate: 66%
SAT: 1000–1230
ACT: 19–27
Amberton University
Garland, TXAcceptance rate: 63.9%
Alvin Community College
Alvin, TXAcceptance rate: 100%
Amarillo College
Amarillo, TXAcceptance rate: 100%
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