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52.3%Acceptance
$64,460Tuition
7,106Students
83%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$78,354Earnings
#13 in TexasPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24United Methodist

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$64,460
Out-of-State Tuition
$64,460
Average Net Price
$41,778
Students Receiving Financial Aid
11.9%
Room & Board (On Campus)
$18,230
Room & Board (Off Campus)
$10,808
Books & Supplies
$800
Total Cost of Attendance
$83,490
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,500
Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
$207/mo
Loan Repayment Rate
75.0%
Students Taking Federal Loans
21.7%
Pell Grant Recipients
11.9%

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after grants and scholarships. Source: U.S. Department of Education

Net price by family income bracket
Family Income Average Net Price
$0 – $30,000 $30,165
$30,001 – $48,000 $16,581
$48,001 – $75,000 $24,746
$75,001 – $110,000 $37,145
$110,001+ $57,595

Cost Estimator

Family Income
Residency
Housing

Cost Overview

Families earning under $30,000 pay about $30,165 annually at SMU, while those making over $110,000 face $57,595 per year. The four-year total ranges from $120,660 to $230,380 depending on family income. Only 11.86% of students receive need-based aid, reflecting the wealthy student body this Methodist university attracts.

Graduates carry a median debt of $19,500, translating to monthly payments around $207. With median starting salaries at $67,114, loan payments represent just 3.7% of gross income. The 75% loan repayment rate suggests most alumni handle debt comfortably. Students from middle-income families ($30,000-$48,000) get the best financial deal with net costs of only $16,581 annually. This selective pricing targets families who need significant aid while charging full freight to Dallas's affluent residents who can afford the premium.

Official Net Price Calculator

Get a personalized cost estimate from Southern Methodist University:

Visit Official Net Price Calculator

This links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.