Online MBA Application Process

Let Us Assist You

We have created a convenient checklist to make taking the next step towards your MBA and applying to an SMU Cox online program, as streamlined as possible. However, if you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through the Request Info button, by emailing us at cox.mbaonline@smu.edu or by calling us at 214-768-1214. We can answer any questions you have and even put you in touch with current Mustangs so you can get a true sense of the culture and community that make the Cox experience truly unique.

Key Dates and Deadlines

All applicants will be evaluated for merit-based scholarships.

Spring 2025

Activity Date
Early Review $2,500 Scholarship August 12, 2024
Round I $2,000 Scholarship September 16, 2024
Round II October 28, 2024
Final Submit Deadline November 22, 2024

We are now accepting rolling admissions for our Online MBA program. All applicants are considered for merit scholarships.

Apply now

Summer 2025

Activity Date
Early Review $2,500 Scholarship December 9, 2024
Round I $2,000 Scholarship January 27, 2025
Round II February 24, 2025
Final Submit Deadline March 24, 2025

Fall 2025

Activity Date
Early Review $2,500 Scholarship April 7, 2025
Round I $2,000 Scholarship May 5, 2025
Round II June 9, 2025
Final Submit Deadline June 30, 2025







Spring 2025

Activity Date
Early Review $2,500 Scholarship August 12, 2024
Round I $2,000 Scholarship September 16, 2024
Round II October 28, 2024
Final Submit Deadline November 22, 2024

We are now accepting rolling admissions for our Early Career Track Online MBA: MBA Direct. All applicants are considered for merit scholarships.

Apply now

Fall 2025

Activity Date
Early Review $2,500 Scholarship December 9, 2024
Round I $2,000 Scholarship February 10, 2025
Round II April 14, 2025
Final Submit Deadline June 9, 2025

MBA Application Checklist

Do you want to get your MBA from one of the most respected programs in the nation? Would you like to learn from world-renowned faculty that bring academic research and industry experience into the classroom? Are you interested in gaining dynamic, hands-on experience and instruction that can be immediately applied at work? It’s time to invest in yourself and become a leader in your field.

  • Schedule an in-depth application walkthrough with a member of our admissions team to go over requirements, best practices, and your timeline to application submission
  • Gather the following materials and apply here
    • Required and Optional Essays Follow and submit your answers to the essay prompts in the application
    • Unofficial Transcripts Upload with your application; or send electronically to cox.mbaonline@smu.edu
    • Standardized Test Scores SMU Cox is test optional
    • Two Professional References Names and contact information of two people who can speak to your character and professional background (Note: Not letters of recommendation)
    • Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

  • Apply for financial aid

  • Submit your $2000 Enrollment Deposit to reserve your seat for the upcoming cohort
  • Submit official final transcripts to cox.mbaonline@smu.edu
  • Connect with Success Coach to prepare a work/life balance plan
  • Review prerequisite course materials prior to the start of the semester
  • Make sure you have internet service that can handle video calls and a designated study space
  • Download Zoom on your computer
  • Connect with your professors, network with your peers, and take your first class!

Printable Checklist

Download your own copy of the Online MBA & MBA Direct Application Checklist.

We are continuing our test-optional policy.

Start your application today!

Our Initiatives Toward Diverse & Inclusive Candidates

SMU proudly honors the service and sacrifice of our Military. Named among the top MBA Schools for Veterans, SMU Cox offers benefits programs and clubs available exclusively to Military members and their families:

The Yellow Ribbon Program

Applicants who are 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill eligible automatically qualify for the Yellow Ribbon Program. At SMU Cox, this means that 100% of tuition costs as an Online MBA Student are covered.

Niemi Center Fellowship Program

Under the auspices of the Niemi Center, paid fellowships offer select members of the military the opportunity to participate in impactful and world-changing research. Fellowships typically begin following the completion of the first semester of study. The Niemi Center collaborates with the George W. Bush Presidential Center for fellowship opportunities, some of which are with the Bush Institute Military Service Initiative.

The Veterans in Business Club

To members of the Military, the Veterans in Business Club provides unique networking opportunities. It grants you access to professional and personal support and introduces you to military friendly companies. We also hold regular events, exclusive to the military. Past events include: Carry the Load, Veterans Day Tailgates, Deloitte CORE Leadership Program, Veteran Clothing drives, and happy hours.

Prep Courses for Military Candidates

If you’re concern about the transition to academia, SMU Cox offers summer preparatory mini-courses in the more challenging core subjects of finance and statistics.

  • SMU Cox is proud of the diverse group of students we have representing dozens of countries around the world across our MBA programs. The Online MBA offers the flexibility for students to live anywhere in the world and still attend classes. The program currently has several students living and working abroad.
  • SMU Cox has a strong international alumni network with presence in 30+ countries across globe and over 42,000 members strong.

Our affiliation with the Forté Foundation offers all MBA women at Cox a jumpstart on their career search, a broad national network and scholarships for attending business school.

Women represent 45% of those currently enrolled in the Online MBA.