Prospective Students

The President's Scholars Program attracts some of the most academically gifted students in the nation.

Each year SMU invites a small number of the most gifted first-year students in the entering class to receive President’s Scholarships: the highest academic merit awards given by the University. The President’s Scholars Program is so named because it represents the University’s highest commitment to attract and serve high-achieving students. President’s Scholarships provide full-tuition and fees for eight consecutive fall and spring academic semesters or graduation, whichever comes first.

A Community of Leaders and Learners

campus view from above with Dallas skyline in the background

International study

President's Scholars receive travel expenses and tuition for study abroad, choosing from dozens of programs offered around the world. Scholars have the option to study abroad for an intersession, a few weeks over the summer, or even a full semester.

A group of mostly President's Scholars at the top of the Orange Trail at the SMU-in-Taos campus right at sunrise

Highly motivated community

President's Scholars is a tight-knit community of highly motivated students and dedicated faculty and staff mentors. Activities throughout the year include the annual retreat at the SMU-in-Taos campus, dinner discussions at faculty members’ homes, and many scholars interact with corporate and community leaders who underwrite their scholarships and offer mentoring opportunities.

Meeting world leaders

President's Scholars have opportunities to meet world leaders on campus for the Willis M. Tate Distinguished Lecture Series. In its 37 years, the Series has brought to campus three former U.S. presidents, nine foreign heads of state, eight Nobel Laureates, and two Supreme Court Justices.