Cost of Attendance

From tuition and housing to food and books, the Cost of Attendance offers a snapshot of educational expenses for the majority of students at SMU. 

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Estimated Undergraduate Cost of Attendance for 2026-2027

The following information is based on enrollment for the fall and spring terms and registration as a full-time student (12-18 credit hours) for each term.

For part-time students (1-11 credit hours), tuition and fees are listed here

Note: Summer and intersession expenses are not included in this example.

Direct costs On-campus Off-campus With parents
Estimated tuition (12-18 credit hours enrolled) $63,736 $63,736 $63,736
Estimated general student fees $8,080 $8,080 $8,080
Housing and food

$20,834

$11,336 $4,222
Total estimated direct costs $92,650 $83,152 $76,038
Indirect costs


Books, supplies, loan fees $888 $888 $888
Transportation $1,134 $1,134 $1,134
Personal/Miscellaneous expenses $1,600 $1,600 $1,600
Total estimated indirect costs $3,622 $3,622 $3,622

Total estimated undergraduate cost of attendance
for fall 2026-spring 2027

$96,272 $86,774 $79,660

Off-campus living expenses listed above can vary significantly based on factors including the choice of neighborhood, apartment rent, number of roommates, or living with parents. The amount used for each expense category varies by degree plan, study program, enrollment hours, and housing choice.

What are direct costs?

Direct costs are educational expenses billed directly by the University, including tuition, fees, housing and meal plans for students living on-campus.

What are indirect costs?

Indirect costs are educational expenses that are not billed by the University, including rent and utilities for students living off-campus.

How much financial aid can I seek based on cost of attendance?

The combined total of all funding sources cannot exceed the official Cost of Attendance, which is reviewed and approved by University administration.

For 2026-2027, undergraduate Cost of Attendance is $96,272 for students living on-campus, $86,774 for students living off-campus, and $79,660 for students living with parents.

Graduate student costs vary depending on program and term. Find more information here