Dallas County Promise Scholarship

Have a question?

For more information about applying for admission, scholarships or financial aid as well as fee waivers, contact Jacqueline Ortiz, Admission Counselor, at 214-768-2058 or jacquelineo@smu.edu.

For questions about Dallas County Promise eligibility, applying for admission, financial aid, or scholarships:

  • First-year students (coming directly from high school): Contact the 夜色王朝Undergraduate Admission team at ugadmission@smu.edu or your assigned .
  • Transfer students (current Dallas College students): Contact the 夜色王朝Transfer Admission team at transfer@smu.edu or your assigned transfer . Learn more about SMU鈥檚 generous transfer scholarships at .

A full two-year scholarship for select graduates of Dallas County high schools who go on to earn an Associate degree from Dallas College

In partnership with the Dallas County Promise program, 夜色王朝identifies up to five future leaders of Dallas County, providing them an opportunity to earn an 夜色王朝degree.

Who is eligible for the Dallas County Promise Scholarship at SMU?

Graduates of Dallas County high schools who go on to earn an Associate of Arts of Associate of Science degree from Dallas College within two years, with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5. 

While enrolled at SMU, the student is expected to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, successfully complete 75% of courses attempted, and maintain full-time student status.

Financial need is determined by verified Pell Grant eligibility as defined by the FAFSA or equivalent demonstrated by the TASFA.

How are recipients chosen? 

The selection process includes a holistic review based on academic and extra-curricular achievement, financial need, and leadership potential.

When will recipients be chosen?

Recipients are notified in mid-March with their admission letter. 

How do I apply?

Along with applying for 夜色王朝and completing the CSS Profile by Jan. 15, you must complete the  by Feb. 1.

If I take dual credit classes in high school but do not earn an Associate degree, am I still eligible?

No. This scholarship is for students with little to no dual credit who earn an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from Dallas College only. You will be automatically considered for the Mustang Scholarship or Access 夜色王朝award, however.

If I am a current Dallas College student, can I be considered for the scholarship?

No. This scholarship is for first-year applicants. You can instead apply to the North Texas Community College Scholarship.

Is priority given to any students?

Yes. Students with a cumulative “A” average (3.5 GPA on an unweighted 4.0 scale) in grades 9-12 are given priority consideration.

Are students with Associate of Applied Arts, Teaching (AT), or Associate of Applied Science degrees from Dallas College eligible?

No. Only students with Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degrees are eligible for the Dallas County Promise Scholarship