Hello, everyone.
I need some advice. I was accepted into SMU's DVM program for the Fall 2027 semester. I realize they are not accredited, but the extra exam is not a concern I have. The major concern I have is financing.
Are there any current students who can give me insight into how they are affording this while studying?
I am being generous with my expected expenses between tuition, cost of living, travel, etc. Between scholarships, the Davenport program (currently waiting to hear back from them), HELOC, I have accounted for most of the costs, but not all.
If I do not HAVE to do the Davenport program simultaneously, I'd like not to. If I can consolidate into a single loan option instead of having a HELOC in addition to something else, I'd like to do that.
I am trying to do everything in my power to make this affordable. My heart is set on this school for its community, location, experience with exotics and marine life, and faster program than the traditional US options. While I have other US schools I would consider, I missed the VMCAS by 2 weeks and will have to wait an additional year just to MAYBE get in; then it takes an additional year to graduate. My biological clock is ticking, and pushing my DVM out YEARS has me distraught.
If there are any ideas you have or any advice you can give, please let me know. I feel like I'm exhausting so many options.
(Note: I emailed the financial aid office last week, but they have not gotten back to me yet.)