SMU Abroad Academic Year 2026-2027
Costs & Financial Information
Studying abroad can be an enriching part of your SMU experience and may be more affordable than you expect. Program tuition, fees, and billing structures vary depending on the program type, length, and location. Students are encouraged to explore options early to understand costs, financial aid eligibility, and how study abroad fits into their academic plan.
Use the SMU Abroad Tuition and Financial Aid Calculator to estimate your tuition costs.
Explore SMU Study Abroad Programs
Tuition
January, May & Summer Terms
For shorter terms, SMU charges tuition based on credit hours taken abroad each session.
Students also pay commitment fees that covers on-site costs (excursions, local logistics, and housing in most programs).
| Credit Load | SMU Tuition Estimate | Notes |
| 3 credit hours | ~$5,430 | Find program costs here. |
| 6 credit hours | ~$10,860 | Find program costs here. |
| 7 credit hours | ~$12,670 | Find program costs here. |
| 8 credit hours | ~$14,480 | Find program costs here. |
| 9 credit hours | ~$16,290 | Find program costs here. |
Commitment and Program Fees
* Commitment fees are non-refundable and confirm a student’s participation in an SMU Abroad program.
* SMU Abroad Commitment Fee: $1,000, due upon acceptance to the program.
* Additional program-specific commitment or deposit amounts may apply and vary by program. Any remaining required deposits will be billed after the initial $1,000 commitment fee.
*Commitment fees and other required deposits are typically not covered by scholarships or financial aid and must be paid directly by the student.
*Program fees may be higher for certain programs, such as internships or programs in high-cost locations.
Semester & Academic Year
For Fall and Spring semesters abroad, students are charged the same flat-rate SMU tuition as an on-campus semester.
Mandatory SMU University fees are also assessed at the student’s usual rate and billed on the standard schedule.
Semester abroad programs do not typically charge a separate SMU “Commitment Fee” in addition to tuition; but housing, excursions, partner institution fees, and local living costs are extra and vary by destination.
Billing & Payments
* Tuition and fees are billed through SMU Enrollment Services according to normal billing cycles.
* Payment can be made through my.SMU portal
Additional Expenses
In addition to SMU tuition and program fees, students are responsible for other expenses not included in the program, such as:
*Airfare and travel to and from the program location.
* Passport and visa fees
* Housing costs not covered by the program
* Meals not included in housing
* Required textbooks, course materials, or supplies
* Local transportation and living expenses
* Independent travel or excursions
* Immunizations needed for travel
* Health insurance or additional coverage required for international travel
* Personal and incidental expenses
Expenses vary by program and location, and students should plan accordingly.
Financial Aid
Most SMU scholarships and federal/state aid can be applied to study abroad (check with Financial Aid for details).
Scholarship Opportunities
Fellowship Opportunities