Is SMU tuition really high per year?

Stressed junior here, helloooo! Anyone have any idea about the yearly tuition at Southern Methodist University? Is it really that high compared to other universities? And how does their financial aid situation look like generally? Feeling anxious, could use some info, thanks!

Hey there, no need to stress! Southern Methodist University (SMU) does have a higher tuition cost compared to the average cost of many other universities. For the 2024-2025 school year, tuition at SMU is around $60,000, which doesn't include room, board, or other fees. If you add those in, the total cost of attending can exceed $80,000 per year. This amount is higher than the national average but it's not uncommon for private universities.

Now, let's touch on the financial aid aspect. Over 70% of undergraduate students receive some kind of financial aid at SMU. SMU offers both need-based and merit-based scholarships. The FAFSA and CSS Profile are required for need-based aid consideration. I highly recommend you use SMU's net price calculator to get a more accurate estimation of what you and your family might be expected to contribute. This allows you to account for your family's financial situation and the potential aid you might receive.

The other part of the financial aid equation is merit-based scholarships. If you have strong grades, test scores, and extracurriculars, you might have a good shot at merit-based scholarships at SMU, which can significantly offset the cost of tuition.

Remember, college is a big investment and it's important to consider what you're comfortable with in terms of cost. If the sticker price seems high, don't be immediately deterred. Financial aid and scholarships can significantly reduce this cost.

Take a deep breath, you've got this! College planning can seem daunting, but taking it step by step can help alleviate the stress.