SMU Mentorship Opportunities

SMU Talent Search

Need help with college and don’t know where to start? The SMU Educational Talent Search Program works with students starting in the 9th grade to achieve their college dreams!

The Educational Talent Search Program at SMU provides advising during the school day on academics, careers, and financial topics. The staff serves students throughout high school, post-graduation, and as they transition to college and pursue their degrees. They help students with the process of identifying potential career options, as well as, helping them understand the educational requirements for their intended careers. The program's goal is to help students find their best-fit college. 

Free Services and Workshops

  • ACT & SAT Prep and Fee Waivers
  • High School Success strategies 
  • Career Exploration and Guidance
  • Guidance through College Admissions Process
  • College and University Tours
  • College Success Strategies
  • Financial Literacy Workshops
  • Financial Aid & Scholarship Application Assistance

Eligibility Requirements

Educational Talent Search is designed for students who are low-income or who could be first generation college graduates. Program participants must meet eligibility requirements and will be selected through an application process. Our students must be 9th-12th grade students, U.S. citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens, must be interested or enrolled in AP/Pre-AP/Dual Credit courses, and must demonstrate a commitment to our program requirements. 

To get an online application, fill out our referral form.

Visit SMU's College Access Programs website for more information and download the Educational Talent Search Flyer PDF today.

SMU Upward Bound Program

Upward Bound at SMU helps students transition from high school to their "best fit" college. Our services and weekly support of our staff are provided at no cost to our students and their parents. The Upward Bound Program at Southern Methodist University can accept 25 -30 students from Lakeview Centennial High School (9th-11th grade).

If you are interested in the Upward Bound Program, please fill out the interest form and someone will contact you.

Students must be:

  • Planning to attend a college or university
  • U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • First-generation college student and/or considered low-income 

Students will need to submit the following in order to apply:

  • Signed Upward Bound application
  • 250-word application essay
  • 2 teacher recommendations 
  • Counselor or Principal recommendation
  • High school transcript 
  • STAAR scores
  • Current report card
  • Signed 1040 parent Tax Return
  • Interview with a Program Leader 

Download an Upward Bound Program flyer for more details. 
Upward Bound Program Flyer English PDF
Upward Bound Program Flyer Spanish PDF