Grants

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FEDERAL AND STATE GRANTS (GIFT-AID)

Grants are typically awarded based on demonstrated financial need. The partners who invest in your education include SMU, the federal government and the state of Texas (for legal residents as specified by the state program). Grant aid may vary each year depending upon the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and CSS/PROFILE® applications. Both applications, (FAFSA and CSS/PROFILE®) must be filed each academic year. Applications are typically available in October for the academic year beginning the following August. 

SMU OPPORTUNITY GRANT

• Awards: Vary annually based on a family’s finances as demonstrated by the CSS/PROFILE®.
• Funding Partner: SMU.
• Eligibility: Awarded on the basis of financial need demonstrated by the CSS/PROFILE® as part of an aid “package” after self-help and other gift aid are determined.

FEDERAL PELL GRANT

• Awards: Vary in amount up to $5,920 in 2017–2018 academic year.
• Funding Partner: Federal government.
• Eligibility: Determined by the U.S. Department of Education based on analysis of a student’s completed FAFSA; given only to the neediest students.

FEDERAL SUPPLEMENTAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY GRANT AWARD

• Awards: Up to $4,000; vary in number depending on allocation to SMU. Funds are very limited.
• Funding Partner: Federal government.
• Eligibility: Priority given to Pell Grant recipients; awarded as part of aid “package” to those who meet federal and SMU criteria.

TUITION EQUALIZATION GRANT (TEG)

• Awards: Vary in amount; award amount may vary depending on allocation to SMU and date of application. Maximum amount is $3,364.
• Funding Partner: State of Texas.
• Eligibility: Must demonstrate financial need and meet the residency rules of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and maintain three-quarter time enrollment. Awards are based on the availability of funds as determined by the Coordinating Board.
• Renewal Requirements: Must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and complete at least 75 percent of hours attempted (minimum 24 hours) with a minimum 2.500 cumulative GPA.

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