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ACCESS SMU: EMPOWERING WORLD CHANGERS FOR TEXAS

A new initiative to help exceptional students from Texas who receive federal Pell Grants and SMU merit scholarships pursue their college dreams.

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Go for big dreams

SMU has launched Access SMU – additional merit scholarships – beginning with Texas students to meet full need for high-achieving scholars who receive federal Pell Grants and SMU merit scholarships. Regardless of financial background, the dream of pursuing an exceptional college education at SMU is fully within reach. At SMU, we welcome your ideas, passion and drive that help make our community strong. Our rigorous academics with distinguished faculty, incredible campus experiences and lifelong connections will launch your successful future.

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Arath Dominguez

“I aim to help students develop the confidence to speak up and make themselves heard when seeking financial assistance. By sharing my experiences, I hope to inspire and support them along their journey.”

Arath Dominguez ’25 had a clear vision for his future as he approached his final year at Garland High School. Coming from a large, tight-knit family, he knew maintaining strong familial bonds was essential. Determined to find a college that allowed him to pursue his education without sacrificing his connection to his loved ones, he decided to attend SMU. By prioritizing his family values, Dominguez could ensure he would have the necessary support and encouragement to succeed inside and outside the classroom.

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Students eligible for Access SMU:
  • • Enter SMU as a full-time, first-year student directly from high school.
  • • Qualify for and receive a federal Pell Grant. 1, 2
  • • Receive a Founders', Second Century, Distinguished or Provost academic scholarship from SMU.
  • • Have a permanent home address in Texas. 2
  • • Submit the FAFSA and CSS: Profile. 2

1. Students and families with a negative Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) are not eligible for this program.
2. Additional qualifications and verification may be required.

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We’re here to answer your financial aid questions.

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SMU community

  • No. 1

    SMU is the highest-ranking national university in Dallas-Fort Worth
    (U.S. News & World Report 2025)

  • Top 1%

    of the country for liberal arts/sciences/humanities students pursuing a bachelor’s degree
    (College Factual 2025)

  • Highest paid graduates

    SMU alumni are among the highest-paid graduates across a range of fields (College Factual 2025)

  • 12,116 student enrollment

    7,285 undergraduate/4,831 graduate (Fall 2024)

  • 37% students of color

    (Fall 2024 undergraduate and graduate)

  • 140,000 alumni worldwide,

    64,000+ alumni in Dallas-Fort Worth

  • 95%

    of Cox BBA Class of 2024 have accepted a full-time position or enrolled in grad school within six months of graduating, with an average starting salary of $82,000 per year

  • 34%

    of Lyle School engineering students are women.

  • 100+

    SMU Simmons School Sport Management students participate each year in over 100 experiential learning internships and work experiences at major sport franchises, leagues and conferences.

  • Nearly 90%

    of SMU graduates have jobs or are in grad school six months after graduation.

  • Access top employers

    Multiple career centers help with pursuing internships or landing a job.

  • 200+ student organizations

    where you can lead, serve and grow.