Southern Methodist University
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Southern Methodist University: Courses, Admission, Cost

  • B++ Shiksha Grade
  • Private University
  • Institute Icon2 Campuses
  • Estd. 1911
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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 5 Nov '24, by Kashish Saini (Study Abroad Expert)

About the Southern Methodist University

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Year of establishment
1911
Also known as
SMU
University website
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Student website
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Total foreign students
1785
Campus size
234 acres
No. of campus
2
Endowment value
USD 1 billion
Scholarships granted
4987
Scholarship amount granted
USD 175 million
Application fees
USD 60
English proficiency test
Required
Accepted exams
SAT/ACT accepted
Optional
Total faculty
831
Faculty/Student ratio
11
UG/PG course ratio
1.52
Total criminal offences
336
Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success
UG Race

Others

71%

Hispanic

14%

Asian

8%

Black

4%

UG Student residence

Out of state

59%

In state

38%

Foreign

2%

UG Age distribution

24 and under

98%

25 and over

1%

UG Applicant Icon

UG Number of Applicant

16150
grad RateIcon

Overall Graduation Rate

0.82
UG Enroll Icon

UG Enrollment

7056
PG Enroll Icon

PG Enrollment

4997
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
On Highlights

Q:   Why indian students choose to study at Southern methodist University?

A: 

Some of the factors that attract Indian students to SMU are:
Diversity: SMU is known for its diverse student body, with students coming from all 50 states in the U.S. and nearly 100 countries. The university has a significant number of international students, including a considerable number of Indians.

Scholarship Opportunities: SMU provides generous academic merit scholarships for all students, regardless of citizenship. 

Internship Opportunities: SMU has a strong presence in the Dallas-Fortune 500 area, with internships available at numerous companies.

Q:   Is it hard to get into Southern Methodist University?

A: 

The Southern Methodist University acceptance rate is 52% and for early application, the acceptance rate is 73%. This indicates the university follows moderate to easy selection criteria during SMU admissions. Students from hundreds of countries apply to the university due to its core values which include Excellence, Integrity, Open Dialogue, Diversity and Inclusion, and Intellectual Freedom. The university follows a lenient approach to selecting students and judging them based on previous school/ university academic records, standardized test scores, English proficiency scores, GPA, personal essays, teacher and counselor recommendations, and more.

Q:   Is getting part-time jobs easy while studying at Southern methodist University?

A: 

Yes, SMU offers a variety of on-campus jobs, internships, and local part-time, and post-graduation career opportunities. The Student Employment Office (SEO) partners with the Hegi Family Career Center, and faculty, the community, and University departments to create employment opportunities for students. Over 1,400 students work on campus at SMU throughout each year, in positions all across campus such as office clerks, library clerks, dining hall and coffee shop help, research assistants for faculty members, website designers, intramurals referees, graders, lifeguards, and more. 

Q:   What is Southern Methodist University acceptance rate?

A: 

According to US News and World Report 2024, the Southern Methodist University acceptance rate is 52%, which means out of every 100 applications only 52 are selected, which makes it fairly competitive to get selected into the university.

The university gives preference to students having higher grades or have exceptional academic or research experience. Hence, having higher grades increases your chance of getting selected at Southern Methodist University.

Here is the list of eligibility requirements to get into US Universities.

Q:   Where is Southern Methodist University located?

A: 

Southern Methodist University is located in the city of Dallas, Texas. It is a private university, established in 1911.

Southern Methodist University Scholarships 2024

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Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships

Q:   What are the top Scholarships for Indian Students at Southern methodist University and how to avail them?

A: 

Some of the top scholarships for Indian students at SMU are:
President’s Scholar Award: This scholarship covers the full tuition fee and is offered to students based on their merit
SMU Distinguished Scholarship: This scholarship awards USD 100,000 for eight semesters (USD 12,500 per semester) to students who have secured outstanding academic scores
Second Century Scholars: This scholarship provides full tuition and fees as well as study abroad opportunities to students who have shown exemplary academic and leadership skills
National Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who have been receiving up to $5,000 annually. To qualify, students must designate SMU as their first choice school with the National Merit Corporation
Education Future International Scholarship: This scholarship is offered to international students, including Indian students, who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate programs in the United States. The scholarship amount varies from $5,000 to $30,000
 Indian students can apply through the university's online application system or common application platforms. 

Q:   What scores do I need to have to get a scholarship at Southern methodist University?

A: 

Following are the scores required for the scholarships at Southern Methodist University:
SMU Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.44, an SAT score of 1340, or an ACT score of 30
Presidential Scholarship: Applicants must meet the Presidential Scholarship criteria, which include a minimum GPA of 3.10 and a minimum New SAT/Old SAT/ACT score of 1100/1020/22
Transfer Presidential Scholarships: Students transferring from other accredited institutions must have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 by the end of the spring semester to be eligible for these scholarships
Methodist Junior College Transfer Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students transferring to SMU from Methodist Junior College. A minimum GPA of 3.50 is required.

Q:   Does Southern Methodist University give full scholarships to international students?

A: 

Southern Methodist University offers various scholarships to international students. These scholarships are based on academic excellence, financial need, and merit of international students. The scholarships offered by the university are listed as follows:

  • President’s Scholar Award – A scholarship covering the full tuition fee is offered to students with a cumulative GPA of 3.30 in each semester. This scholarship is based on students’ merit.
  • SMU Distinguished Scholarship – A scholarship of USD 100,000 is awarded for eight semesters (USD 12,500 per year) to students who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 in their chosen program. Students are required to secure outstanding academic scores.
  • Provost Scholarship – A scholarship of USD 120,000 is awarded for eight semesters (USD 30,000 per year) to students who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 in their chosen program. This scholarship is based on academic excellence and merit.
  • National Merit Scholarship – A scholarship of USD 5,000 is offered to students annually based on merit and academic qualifications. Students are required to maintain a GPA of 3.00 in all years at the university.

Other scholarships include Transfer Scholarships, International Baccalaureate Scholars, United Methodist Scholarship, Athletic Scholarships, etc. For more information, students can refer to the university’s website.

Note: Scholarship deadlines and amounts may vary with progressive years. Students must check the exact deadlines and minimum requirements with their respective departments and apply for the desirable awards on time to make their profiles considerable.

Southern Methodist University Admission Dates 2024

  • Application fees :No Fees
  • Type of deadline :Depends on course
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNeeded for few courses
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNeeded for few courses
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
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Calendar IconImportant dates
Intake seasonDeadline
Fall2ⁿᵈ May 2023 - 15ᵗʰ Jul 2024
Spring15ᵗʰ Nov 2024
Summer15ᵗʰ May 2024
Admission details of all coursesRight Arrow Icon
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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions

Q:   How long does it take to hear back from Southern Methodist University?

A: 

According to the Southern Methodist University admissions department, the decisions regarding the admission and selection of candidates are communicated within 4 weeks of receiving of duly completed application form.

Q:   Are there many students from other countries studying at Southern methodist University?

A: 

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is known for its diverse student body, with students coming from all 50 states in the U.S. and nearly 100 countries. The university offers a variety of programs and opportunities for international students, including study-abroad programs and partnerships with international universities. International students require a visa to live and study in the United States, including non-immigrant visas such as L2, H2, or E2 visas. 

Q:   Can an average indian student join Southern methodist University?

A: 

Yes, an average Indian student can join Southern Methodist University (SMU). SMU is known for its diverse student body, with students coming from various countries and backgrounds. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including Arts, Business, Engineering, Science, and Humanity. Indian students can apply for these programs, and if they meet the eligibility criteria and English language requirements (TOEFL or IELTS), they can join the university.

Q:   What are the deadlines to submit applications for indian students at Southern methodist University?

A: 

The deadlines for submitting applications for Indian students at Southern Methodist University (SMU) are as follows:
Early Action (non-binding): November 1
Early Decision I (binding): November 1
Regular Decision (non-binding): January 15
Early Decision II (binding): January 15

International students applying to SMU should apply through the SMU Office of International and Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). 

Q:   What are the documents required in the visa process for indian students at Southern methodist University, USA?

A: 

To obtain an F-1 visa to study at Southern Methodist University in the USA, Indian students need to submit the following documents. To obtain an SMU I-20: the International Student Financial Statement form, a copy of the picture page from their passport, and original financial verification from a bank or financial institution, on bank letterhead, from the student or their sponsor, dated within six months of the time of I-20 issuance. Account balance (s) must be shown in an amount greater than or equal to the total estimated costs. Additionally, students must provide proof of their ability to study in the USA.

Southern Methodist University Tuition Fees, Duration & Eligibility 2024

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Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MBA/PGDM(5 courses)
INR 36 L
Duration9-21 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 68 & Above
MS(1 course)
INR 17 L
Duration18-24 months
Exam AcceptedGRE, IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above
MIM(3 courses)
INR 36 L
Duration9-10 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE
BBA(1 course)
INR 54 L
Duration4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above
Read more
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Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility

Q:   What is the Southern Methodist University tuition fees for international students?

A: 

Southern Methodist University tuition fees for international students is given in the table below:

Courses1st Year Tuition Fees
MBA/PGDM (2 courses)
INR 49 L - 65 L
MS (1 course)
INR 17 L
MBA/PGDM5 (1 course)
INR 50 L
MIM (3 courses)
INR 36 L - 44 L

Q:   How expensive is it to live at Southern methodist University?

A: 

Living at Southern Methodist University (SMU) is expensive. The on-campus living expenses at SMU total $20,838, which is higher than the national average of $15,282. The estimated cost of attendance for undergraduate academic programs for the 2018-2019 academic year is $54,492 for tuition and fees, and $17,438 for housing and dining costs. The total cost of attendance, including room and board, books and supplies, and transportation and personal expenses, is $83,130, while the net price after aid and scholarship funds are discounted is $42,155 for the average student receiving need-based aid. 

Q:   Is a score of 85 in TOEFL good for Southern methodist University?

A: 

Yes, a score of 85 in TOEFL is considered good for Southern Methodist University (SMU) for undergraduate admission. The minimum TOEFL score for application review is 80 for the Internet-based test only. The minimum IELTS score required for admission to SMU is an overall band score of 6.5 on the academic version of the test. 

SMU also accepts the following English proficiency tests:

Duolingo English Test (DET): The minimum score accepted is 115
Pearson Test of English (PTE): The minimum score accepted is 60

Q:   How much money is required in Indian rupees to study at Southern methodist University?

A: 

For a 12-18 credit hour semester, the tuition fee is approximately INR 795 per credit hour, totaling INR 9,545 to INR 14,695. Additionally, there are other fees such as general student fees, university fees, books and supplies, student health insurance, and housing. The total cost for the academic year 2023-2024 is estimated to be INR 49,148 per year. 

The fees for the first year of the following courses are:

BBA (1 course)- INR 50 Lakhs

MS (1 course)- INR 17 Lakhs

MIM (3 courses)- INR 36 Lakhs - 44 Lakhs

MBA/PGDM (2 courses)I- NR 49 Lakhs - 65 Lakhs

Q:   Is Southern Methodist University expensive?

A: 

The Southern Methodist University is quite expensive for international students. The tuition cost is between INR 36L and INR 65L for PG and around INR 54L for UG. Along with tuition, students must pay housing costs; food; book, and supply costs; insurance, and more. The below table suggests the estimated cost of living at SMU:

Direct Costs

On-Campus

Off-Campus

Estimated Tuition (12-18 credit hours enrolled)

USD 59,500 (INR 49L)

USD 59,500 (INR 49L)

Estimated General Student Fees 

USD 7,538 (INR 6.2L)

USD 7,538 (INR 6.2L)

Housing and Food

USD 19,064 (INR 15L)

USD 11,314 (INR 9.4L)

 Total Estimated Direct Costs

USD 86,102 (INR 71L)

USD 78,352 (INR 65L)

Indirect Costs

 

 

Books, Supplies, Loan Fees

USD 876 (INR 73K)

USD 876 (INR 73K)

Transportation

USD 1,098 (INR 91K)

USD 1,098 (INR 91K)

Personal/Miscellaneous Expenses

USD 1,600 (INR 1.3L)

USD 1,600 (INR 1.3L)

Total Estimated Indirect Costs 

USD 3,574 (INR 2.9L)

USD 3,574 (INR 2.9L)

Total Estimated Undergraduate Cost of Attendance
for Fall 2024 - Spring 2025

USD 89,676 (INR 74L)

USD 81,926 (INR 74L)

(USD 1= INR 83.54 on 17 June 2024)

SMU
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.6/5
Verified Icon1 Verified ReviewInfo Icon
Vibe of Campus
  • Friendly
  • Sporty
  • Academically oriented
Student Views
  • 100% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships4
Part time work4
Post study jobs3
Quality of faculty4
Student Life4
Value for money3
Public transportation4
Safety3
Indian Food4
Permanent Immigration3
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MS Computer Science - Batch of 2025
3.6
College was a fun rollercoaster ride filled with emotions
Tips: The culture is SMU is pretty good, although the course can be a bit hectic as Bachelors and Masters are two different things. But it is something that you will adapt to soon. The college promotes mental health and tries to make it less hectic for students.
Likes (Indian Food): The Indian food here is very expensive and it is better to bring home the ingredients and cook the food as everything you eat at a restaurant is 10 times more expensive than what would you cook in the house. Overall the groceries in Dallas are not that expensive.
Dislikes (Safety): The problem is that there are some homeless people problem in Dallas, but the campus security is tight and there is no room for error. But it is generally advised to stay at your home at night as there could be instances of name calling or harassment which you should stay away from.
Reviewed on 17 Nov 2023Read more
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Southern Methodist University Job Outcomes

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Commonly asked questions
On Placements

Q:   What is Southern Methodist University MBA graduate starting salary?

A: 

According to Employment Report for Class of 2022 released by the Southern Methodist University, the average salary of Master’s graduates is INR 1 Cr per annum.

Q:   What are the popular sectors that indian students prefer for doing part-time jobs at Southern methodist University?

A: 

At Southern Methodist University, it is common for international students, including those from India, to seek part-time employment in sectors such as retail, food service, tutoring, and administrative support. These sectors often provide flexible work hours and opportunities to gain experience while studying. Additionally, SMU's location in Dallas, Texas, may offer various part-time job opportunities in the local area, including internships in the business and technology sectors. 

Q:   What are the job opportunities after doing MBA from Southern Methodist University, USA?

A: 

Some of the key job opportunities and industries for SMU MBA graduates include:
Financial Services: 26% of MBA graduates found jobs in this industry, with an average salary of USD 120,000
Consulting: 20% of MBA graduates secured jobs in consulting, with an average salary of USD 165,000
Real Estate: 15% of MBA graduates found employment in real estate, with an average salary of USD 95,000
Transportation/Logistics: 11% of MBA graduates secured jobs in transportation and logistics, with an average salary of USD 120,000. 
Other industries: Graduates also found jobs in various other industries, such as accounting/finance, general management, human resources, marketing/sales, information technology, and operations/logistics. 

 

Q:   What was the overall salary provided to the MBA graduates of Southern Methodist University?

A: 

The overall salary for the MBA graduates of Southern Methodist University was USD 120,000 (median salary) and the mean salary was USD 122,001. The average median signing bonus was USD 25,000 and the mean signing bonus was USD 27,920.

Q:   Does Southern Methodist University provide any career/placement related service to its students?

A: 

Yes, The Cox Career Management Center offers vast, dedicated resources for students and employers. Students can engage with career coaches as soon as their programme and courses begin. From personal branding and coaching to internship or job searches.







Southern Methodist University Rankings 2024

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Commonly asked questions
On Rankings

Q:   What is the Southern Methodist University's ranking?

A: 

In 2024, Southern Methodist University QS ranking under Global Universities Ranking is 1001-1200., As per US News and World Report, Southern Methodist University National Ranking is ranked at 163 among National Universities- USA.

 

Q:   What is the rank of Southern methodist University in the world?

A: 

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is ranked #89 out of 439 National Universities by U.S. News. This ranking is based on a combination of factors, including academic performance, student outcomes, and student-faculty ratio. SMU is a private institution with a total undergraduate enrollment of 7,056 students (fall 2022). The university's tuition and fees are $64,460.  In the state of Texas, SMU is ranked #4 overall among all public and private universities, following Rice University, the University of Texas at Austin, and Texas A&M University. 

SMU
College comparison

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Compare SMU with other similar colleges

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MS
MIM
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SMU

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SMU
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20 hours per week
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12 months
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Southern Methodist University Notable Alumni

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SMU 
FAQs

Q:   What is Southern Methodist University famous for?

A: 

The Southern Methodist University is a private university established in 1911, in the city of Dallas, Texas. The university is known for its state-of-the-art research facility and high-quality education to its students.

  • Variety of Courses: The university offers more than 100 courses at undergraduate and graduate level.
  • High Job Outcomes: According to Employment Report for Class of 2022 released by the Southern Methodist University, more than 90% of its graduates were found to be either employed or pursuing higher education.
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: As per enrollment data for Fall 2023 released by the Southern Methodist University, the student to faculty ratio is 11:1, which provides a quality and interactive classroom experience to its students.

 

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SMU

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 5 months ago

Southern Methodist University owns four apartments in the university park, near campus for currently enrolled UG or PG students. They provide 12-month contract housing to the students. The four apartment housing details for international students are given below:

Apartments

Type

Cost/ month

Fourplex

1 bedroom/ 1 Bathroom

USD 979 (INR 81K)

Hillcrest Manor

A. 1 bedroom/ 1 Bathroom

B. 2 bedroom/ 1 Bathroom

A. USD 979 (INR 81K)

B. USD 1051 (INR 87K)

Hilltop Heights

A. 2 Bedroom/2.5 Bathroom

B. 3 Bedroom/2.5 Bathroom

A. USD 3178 (INR 2.6L)

B. USD 4116 (INR 3.4L)

Red Door

1 bedroom/ 1 Bathroom

USD 926 (INR 77K)

(USD 1= INR 83.54 on 17 June 2024)

 

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 months ago

The Cox School of Business department at SMU offers MBA programs for international students. SMU provides a 21-month Full-Time MBA programme with tuition fees of around INR 48L. International students must fulfill the eligibility to become a part of this curriculum including the official transcripts

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 months ago

To gain admission to Southern Methodist University, international students must follow the steps outlined below:

  • Step 1: Select a program: International students can select a programme from a variety of major and minor programs in specializations such as Business, Management, Social Sciences, Communi

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 months ago

GRE is required for postgraduate programs such as Ph.D. The minimum score required at SMU in GRE is 160 on the scale of 600 and 3.5 on the GRE analytic test with a minimum GPA of 3.5. There is no set expectation for the Ph.D programs, although the university demands a quantitative test. If look at t

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 5 months ago

Southern Methodist University is one of the reputed universities in Texas. Students find it difficult to enter due to its acceptance rate of 52%, however, the university compelled students to take part in its programs and explore campus life. Other than this, there are many reasons to attend SMU whi

...more

A

Akansha katariya

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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Kashish Saini

Study Abroad Expert

With over six years of experience, Kashish Saini has built his expertise in the field researching on the latest trends in the study abroad vertical. Patient and sincere in his work, he is also highly adaptive in nature. A valued member of the team, h...Read Full Bio
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SMU
Location

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University CityDallas, Texas, USA

SMU
Campuses

Departments Icon2   Campuses
Southern Methodist University CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

6425 Boaz Lane Dallas TX 75205 US

Visit official site External Link Icon

SMU
Contact Information

Address

6185 Airline Road Suite 310b,Dallas, Texas 75205
Dallas ( Texas)

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