Financial information
The US Immigration and Naturalization Service requires that all foreign passport holders show evidence of having at least $48,300 (less scholarship awards) available without restrictions to cover the costs of studying at SMU for an academic year.  Foreign passport holders will not be granted a student visa if such funding cannot be guaranteed.

Estimated Expenses for 2008-2009

Additional costs that international students may expect include room and board during school holidays, travel expenses, books and supplies. 

Scholarships
Need-based financial aid is not available for international students. However, first-year international students will be considered for all available merit based scholarships if their application is complete by the January 15 deadline. Transfer international students will be considered for all available academic transfer scholarships if their application is completed by June 1 (fall entry) or November 1 (spring entry). If an international student has foreign transcripts it is recommended that their application is completed at least one month PRIOR to these deadlines.

When an international student has been admitted, paid the required deposits, and provided an adequate Certificate of Financial Responsibility or bank letter, the International Office will issue Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility. The student will be required to produce the I-20, the Letter of Acceptance, and proof of finances when applying at the U.S. embassy or consulate for a student visa.