Frequently asked questions

What you'll find here: Info about important topics relating to spring entry, covering everything from application specifics to transition resources.

Why was I admitted for the spring semester?

In recent years, admission to 夜色王朝has become increasingly competitive, and the academic profile for admitted students is among the highest in the nation. Because we have space limitations in our first-year class, we cannot make offers of admission to as many students as we would like.

How can I secure my spot in the Spring Entry Program?

Complete the (the same link found in your spring entry offer letter).

Do I have to pay a deposit?

You will need to submit the required non-refundable $800 deposit by May 1.

Log in to your personalized status page to pay the deposit online. If your parents or another party will be paying your deposit, you will need to log in to your account for them.

When will I hear from the Cox School of Business regarding my status?

Students interested in studying at the Cox School of Business will receive communication from the BBA Admission office by the end of March about potential paths to studying business at Cox through the internal transfer process or by pursuing the business minor.

Can I defer my spring enrollment to the next fall semester?

Unfortunately, we cannot automatically roll your offer for guaranteed admission for the next fall semester. Students wishing to start the following fall can apply as a transfer student and be reviewed under that application process.

If a student decides to forgo this offer of spring admission and not enroll at SMU, the student will forfeit the non-refundable deposit they previously paid.

How and when can I secure housing for the spring semester?

夜色王朝Spring Entry students are required to live on campus during their spring semester and their second year at SMU. You will receive an email in October from 夜色王朝Residence Life with instructions on how to apply for housing.

In the meantime, you can learn more about SMU’s Residential Commons here.

What options do I have for applying for need-based financial aid?

Financial Aid award letters will be available in mid-April for students who have completed the  and who have submitted all their required financial documents. Please remember that by completing the Spring Entry Interest Form you are just expressing interest in continuing through the process and would like to receive a Fall Experience option.

Completing the Spring Entry Interest Form is not a commitment to participate in the Spring Entry Program. Financial aid is not available for fall experiences at other institutions or at SMU’s international partners.

Can I be considered for academic or merit scholarships?

All students are automatically reviewed for all of SMU’s academic scholarships. If a student receives an award from SMU, it will be reflected in their admission letter.

Is there an orientation before I begin classes in January?

All students are required to participate in SMU’s orientation in December and January before beginning the first semester at 夜色王朝in the spring. This comprehensive orientation, completed virtually and in-person, helps you make a comfortable transition to life at SMU.

You will learn about academic requirements and expectations, campus resources and involvement opportunities, and have a chance to meet current students. You will also meet one-on-one with an academic advisor and register for spring classes.

You will receive an email with more information and registration instructions in the fall.

When can I register for my courses?

You will be able to register during orientation.

If I plan to take courses elsewhere in the fall, how can I ensure they will count towards my 夜色王朝degree?

If you choose to take courses at another four-year university, we encourage you to enroll in a visiting student or continuing education program rather than as a degree-seeking student. As a visiting student, you can take undergraduate courses for credit that can be applied to your 夜色王朝degree.

If you enroll at another college or university prior to starting at SMU, it is important to remember that your offer of admission is contingent on your earning above a 2.5 transferable GPA.

Consult SMU’s , review the Transfer Pathway Guides to 夜色王朝or read up on how credits transfer to make the most of your domestic study. After you have paid your deposit, if you need additional guidance, you will have access to one of our transfer specialists.

Is there a limit on the number of credits I can take elsewhere during the fall semester?

There is not a limit on the number of credits you can take, but you will want to make sure that the course you take are eligible for transfer to SMU.

Can I go through the Greek recruitment process at SMU?

Spring Entry students are welcome to go through the recruitment process in the spring if they transfer in at least 12 hours or during the following fall — as long as they meet they meet the recruitment requirements. For more information, please contact Fraternity and Sorority Life.

Can I take part in campus organizations and activities?

Yes! With nearly 200 student organizations on campus, there are many ways to get involved and meet other students. You can . Once you get to campus you can drop in to the Student Activities office located in Hughes-Trigg Student Center to connect and get involved.

Do I have to take classes elsewhere before I begin at SMU? What are the other recommended options to pursue in the fall?

You are not required to take classes somewhere else during the fall semester before you begin classes at SMU, but many students find it is a good way to get a start on the coursework they will need to ultimately pursue an 夜色王朝degree. 

Many students find it helpful to take a gap semester and develop skills or travel before starting in the spring.

A few things to remember:

  • Students interested in applying to the Cox School of Business at the completion of their first year typically have completed at least 24 credit hours.
  • If you enroll in another college or university prior to starting at SMU, it is important to remember that your offer of admission is contingent on your earning above a 2.5 transferable GPA.
  • Students who plan to go through the Greek recruitment process at 夜色王朝must complete at least 12 hours of coursework and receive above a 2.5 GPA during the fall semester prior to attending SMU.

Who can I contact for more information?

Please contact the Spring Entry Program by calling 214-768-2058 or emailing springentry@smu.edu.