Southern Methodist University is waiving its application fee for first-year and transfer students, making it easier for students to apply.
The private university in Dallas made an announcement for prospective students explaining what led the institution to this decision.
“Lots of exciting things are happening at SMU,” said Elena D. Hicks, assistant vice provost and dean of admission. “One of the biggest things happening on campus this summer was our entry as an official member into the Atlantic Coast Conference. The admission office wanted to get in on the fun so we have decided to waive the application fee for admission for first-year and transfer students this year.”
“So, when Fall 2025 applications open for SMU on Aug. 1, 2024, you will see that the normal application fee of $60 has been waived,” Hicks said. “This will make it easier for all students to apply.”
SMU announced its move to join the Atlantic Coast Conference in September and has since fundraised $159 million for its athletic programs, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
Additional measures are in place at SMU to make the process easier for students applying to the university.
SMU is fully test-optional, meaning that SAT and ACT scores are not required to apply, and “no preference is given to applicants who submit or do not submit test scores,” the university said.
Private universities within the state typically require application fees, which can vary by institution. Texas Christian University charges $50, and Rice University charges $75, per CBS News Texas. However, Baylor University in Waco does not charge an application fee, according to its website.
Public universities across the Lone Star State, including Texas A&M, University of North Texas, and University of Texas at Austin, typically charge a $75 application fee, CBS reported.