There’s an option just for you
We recognize that each family’s financial situation is unique. That’s why SMU offers a variety of payment and loan options to meet your needs. These include state and federal sources of financial assistance as well as SMU financing plans depending on financial need.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Your first step is to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Our financial aid advisors will compare the estimated family contribution in your FAFSA report to the cost of attending SMU. They will put together a package of federal, state, and institutional money including grants, loans, and work-study options to balance the difference depending on your family's financial circumstances.

College Scholarship Service CSS/PROFILE
You also need to file a CSS/PROFILE through the College Board. This profile will give our financial aid advisors more information to further assess your need based financial aid.

Grants and loans
Grants and loans that may be a part of your SMU financial package include:
• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
• TEXAS Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG)
• Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan
• Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
• Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan

Student employment
National studies show that college students who work part time benefit financially, sharpen their time management skills, and are more likely to remain in school. SMU student employees are paid biweekly, and earnings are not applied to University invoice costs.

Work options at SMU include:
• Federal Work-Study Program employment
• On-campus employment

More information about student employment.

More information about financial aid.