AdmissionsOS Southern Methodist University vs The University of Texas at Dallas
| Southern Methodist University | The University of Texas at Dallas | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 63% | 65% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,340-1,490 | 1,160-1,410 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 30-34 | 24-32 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $40,892 | $18,267 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $85,606 | $29,807 |
| Graduation rate | 84% | 76% |
| Retention rate | 91% | 90% |
| Undergraduates | 7,277 | 21,751 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 11:1 | 23:1 |
| Setting | Dallas, TX | Richardson, TX |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Application fee | None | $75 |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Southern Methodist University or The University of Texas at Dallas harder to get into?
Southern Methodist University is more selective, with a 63% acceptance rate versus 65% at The University of Texas at Dallas. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Southern Methodist University or The University of Texas at Dallas?
The University of Texas at Dallas has the lower average net price ($18,267 versus $40,892). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.