Selection of degree-seeking students at SMU is based on several criteria: the high school curriculum, academic performance in the classroom, grade pattern, rank in class (if available), SAT and/or ACT scores*, counselor and teacher recommendations, essay, resume, behavioral record and extracurricular activities. Although no specific cutoff is applied to any single measure, generally a student who has both accomplished a strong academic record and exhibited a variety of noteworthy and personal achievements will contribute and benefit most from the SMU experience. Matriculation to the University is contingent upon continuing academic achievement and completion of the high school diploma.
High school curricula, including curricular rigor, academic performance in the classroom, elective choices and senior-year course load, are considered in the admission review. Applicants should submit high school records with a minimum of 15 or more academic units. The recommended distribution for a minimum program is as follows: four units of English, three units of mathematics (algebra 1, plane geometry, algebra 2), three units of science (including two units of laboratory science), three units of social science and two units of a second language (a two-year sequence).
Students whose native language is not English and whose entire secondary education has not been in an English-medium school are required to present evidence of their ability to perform academic work and contribute to a classroom in English. Such students should submit one of the following:

an official total score of at least 90 on the TOEFL English language proficiency exam with recommended subscores of at least: 20 Reading, 20 Listening, 24 Speaking, 24 Writing. Because SMU values class participation and a writing-intensive curriculum, particular emphasis is placed on speaking and writing skills. Students who score less than 90 are generally not offered admission* to SMU, or
an official score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS Academic English competency test with recommended subscores of at least: 6.5 Reading, 6.5 Listening, 7 Speaking, 7 Writing. Because SMU values class participation and a writing-intensive curriculum, particular emphasis is placed on speaking and writing skills. Students who score less than 6.5 are generally not offered admission* to SMU, or
an official score of at least 60 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic).
Official high school transcript.
Official SAT/ACT scores (SAT/ACT optional for any student who graduates high school abroad.)
Copy of Passport.