Southern Methodist University
SMU
Dallas, Texas 75275-0221
Data last updated: May 29, 2026
Campus Vibe
Strong graduate outcomes — known for business
Southern Methodist University is a private suburban institution in Dallas, Texas. The school is accessible to a wide range of students, with an average SAT of 1424.
A mid-sized campus of 7.1K undergraduates with a 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
83% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $78,354 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $41,778.
Plan Your Visit
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1424
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
78.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,311
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
51
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Programs (228)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
90%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History The university was chartered on April 17, 1911, by the southern denomination of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
- •Constructed in 1915, Dallas Hall remains the centerpiece of the campus.
- •At the 1914 meeting of the General Conference, Southern Methodist University was designated the connectional institution for all conferences west of the Mississippi River.
- •SMU named its first building Dallas Hall in gratitude for the support of Dallas leaders and local citizens, who had pledged $300,000 to secure the university's location.
Source: Wikipedia
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from TX state average + suburban adjustment