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College Roadmap · Family ROI Report
UNIVERSITY · CDS 2023-2024
Southern Methodist University (SMU)
Prepared for Sample Student · Dallas, TX
Best-case 4-yr offset
$127,040
AP savings + President's Scholarship
Typical 4-yr offset
$172,880
AP + avg merit × 4 · 37% receive merit
Need-based (if eligible)
up to $234,180 / 4 yrs
Admissions Reality
53.0%
Yield 24.0% · Test Optional
Annual Sticker Cost
$96,388
Net after avg aid: $37,843
AP Tuition Saved
$55,224
26 credits · 1.7 semester(s)

Admissions Profile

SAT Total (mid 50%)
1360–1530
ACT Composite
31–34
GPA
Not reported
Decision Plans
RD

Average GPA not reported; 40% in top tenth of high school graduating class, 71% in top quarter, and 91% in top half.

Cost Breakdown

Tuition$63,736
Fees$8,080
Room & board$20,950
Cost of Attendance (sticker)$96,388
Average need-based aid− $58,545
Net price (avg)$37,843

Merit Scholarship Opportunity

President's Scholarship
$71,816 /yr
Nancy Ann and Ray L. Hunt Leadership Scholarship
$53,862 /yr
Provost Scholarship, SMU Distinguished Scholarship, Second Century Scholarship, and the University Scholarship
$63,736 /yr
International Baccalaureate (IB) Scholarship
$7,500 /yr

AP Investment & Return

Based on SMU's AP credit policy (min score 4, capped at 32 credits).

Edit AP profile
Calculus BC
+6 credits · $12,744
Chemistry
+4 credits · $8,496
Biology
+4 credits · $8,496
English Language
+6 credits · $12,744
US History
+6 credits · $12,744
Credits
26
Sem. saved
1.7
Saved
$55,224
College Board Recognition
AP Scholar with Distinction

Average score of 3.5 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3+ on 5 or more exams.

Say to the parent

"SMU offers a unique combination of a strong liberal arts foundation with top-tier professional programs like the Cox School of Business. This means your child will not only get a great education in their chosen field, but also develop the critical thinking and communication skills that are essential for success in any career."

Say to the student

"SMU is a place where you can really forge your own path. Whether you're interested in business, law, the arts, or something else entirely, you'll find a supportive community and a wealth of opportunities to explore your passions and make a real impact."

College Admissions Co-pilot · Sourced from CDS 2023-2024 + official school financial aid & AP credit policy pagesUpdated 2026-04-22