Dallas County Mustang Scholars Program

The Dallas County Mustang Scholars Program supports high achieving students from Dallas County by making an SMU education more accessible and providing a strong four-year student experience.

Scholarship

The Mustang Scholarship combines with other aid to ensure tuition, fees, and campus housing are covered for selected students. The program is designed to remove financial barriers and help students fully engage in the SMU experience.

Experience

Mustang Scholars join the Turner Scholars cohort and take part in a four-year experience centered on mentoring, community engagement, leadership development, and personal growth. Scholars are supported as they build community, celebrate their identities, and make an impact on campus and beyond.

Who is eligible?

Students may be considered if they:

• Graduate from a public, private or charter high school in Dallas County
• Are admitted to SMU for the fall semester after high school graduation
• Demonstrate financial need, including Pell eligibility through the FAFSA or equivalent eligibility through the TASFA

How are students considered?

Students who apply for admission to SMU are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, including the Mustang Scholars Program. Selection is based on a holistic review of academic achievement, leadership, involvement, and financial need. 

When are recipients selected?

Recipients are typically selected and notified before May 1.

Why it matters

The Mustang Scholars Program was created to expand access for talented students from Dallas County and connect them to the full SMU experience through scholarship support and a meaningful cohort community.