An international student's average cost of attending a Southern Methodist University undergraduate course is $54,493 USD (equivalent to 40,30,000 INR).

Southern Methodist University takes care of overseas students' travel and lodging in the United States by providing on-campus housing. First-year students have the opportunity to live with their instructors in one of the 11 Residential Commons (RCs). The average cost of living in a two occupancy room with the company's eating plan is around 17,438 USD (equivalent to 12,88,110 INR). If students wish to live off-campus rather than in university student housing in the United States, they can do so in non-SMU housing or flats near the university. These flats or duplexes are priced similarly to other apartments in Dallas.

The university has a total of 11789 students enrolled. According to university statistics, there are 1,596 international students on campus. SMU admissions are more selective, with a 53% acceptance rate.

Keeping academics in mind, the university's on-campus housing focuses on a variety of academic activities such as classes near where students live, technology, teachers, workshops, and study areas. Every year, the university hosts around 500 cultural events. The university arena has four basketball courts, two outdoor sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, a free weight facility, and a cardio area. SMU encourages students of all faiths to integrate. The university provides resources to students who want to follow a spiritual path. Religious activities and worship groups are available for the major religious communities.

Southern Methodist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, masters, doctorate, and professional degrees.

After two years following graduation from Southern Methodist University, 93 percent of graduates are employed. After two years of graduation, the median wages of SMU graduates are roughly 54,300 USD per year. SMU alumni earn an average of $60,700 USD per year after six years of education. Furthermore, according to an American Enterprise Institute research, Dallas-Fort Worth is the top metro area for STEM jobs. The majority of the university's MBA students found work promptly following graduation.