Admissions

Applying for the Cox MSA

Application Resources

Please reach out to us with your questions, try to visit us on campus so we can meet in person, and consider attending an admissions event or class. Studying at SMU Cox is an intimate experience and connections matter — starting now.

M.S. Accounting Background Course Requirements

We welcome applicants from all majors to apply. To be prepared for the MSA program, candidates must have completed Fundamentals of Accounting I/Financial Accounting and Fundamentals of Accounting II/Managerial Accounting earning a B or higher before completing the application.

The MSA Program also requires background courses in Intermediate Accounting I, Intermediate Accounting II, Financial Income Tax, and Audit earning a B or higher. However, if you have not taken these background courses, or have only taken some, you can still be admitted to MSA. You will be required to take the courses you need in the summer before the program begins in the fall to prepare you fully for entry. Summer prerequisite courses are offered at SMU Cox.

If you have specific questions regarding your academic background or coursework you have completed, please email gradadmissions@smu.edu.

What You Need to Apply

All Applicants students will need these items to complete an online application:

• Current resume
• Written essays
• Unofficial transcripts or degree progress reports
  • Degree progress reports must show cumulative GPA and grades for each course taken
  • Official transcripts from bachelors degree institution, institutions where 12 or more credit hours were taken, and graduate degrees are required for candidates offered admission.
• Two references
  • Name and contact information only
  • Recommendation letters are not required nor are they requested from references
• Optional: Unofficial GMAT or GRE score report
  • Exam must have been taken within five years of the date of application
  • Official score report is required after a student is offered admission
  • GMAT School Code: HWG-KN-59
  • GRE School Code: 6660
  • Click here to learn more about the benefits of submitting test scores

International Students have the additional option to submit a TOEFL/IELTS score as a part of their application. This testing component is not a requirement. For applicants without a test score, we will assess the application based on a holistic review process that takes all your application components into consideration.

• Exams must have been taken within two years of the date of application
• TOEFL School Code: 6660
• Click here to learn more about the benefits of submitting test scores

Application Deadlines

The SMU Cox Master of Science in Accounting deadline dates are below. If you are ready to submit your application, please do not wait for a specific deadline. We will process your application when it is submitted.

*Priority deadline for scholarships and fellowships

Financing the SMU Cox MSA

A graduate education is one of the most important investments you will ever make.  The returns can be measured in enhanced job opportunities, self-confidence and post-MSA success.  This is why you should seek an accounting program that prepares you for your career rather than just the CPA Exam.  It is not surprising that SMU Cox MSA students are highly sought after by national and regional accounting firms.

Merit-Based Scholarship

SMU Cox is able to offer merit-based scholarships to students exhibiting high academic potential. All candidates will be automatically considered for a merit scholarship through their application for admission. Track of choice and the applicant's citizenship are not considered in awarding of scholarships.

Additional Resources

Other sources of financial assistance are available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents which may help defray the cost of your education and living expenses including student loans.  Information on some of these sources can be obtained at: http://www.smu.edu/EnrollmentServices/FinancialAid/TypesOfAid.  Applicants may also seek out outside scholarships including those offered through the AICPA, state CPA societies and other outside accounting groups.

Scholarships offered through the program are available to students without regard to citizenship.

31 Credit Hours Estimated Annual Tuition & Fees:

Estimated Living Expenses*:

40 Credit Hours Estimated Annual Tuition & Fees:

Estimated Living Expenses*:

"*This fee may not apply to all students and depends on international student status.

**This estimated total is based on a 9-month school year for the 2025-26 academic year. The cost may be more or less depending on the student's lifestyle, whether the student lives on-campus or off-campus and whether any family members accompany the student. If family members accompany the student, add $9,000 if 1 dependent (spouse or child) and $4,500 for each dependent after 1.

FAQs

Click here to find answers to frequently asked questions