How are exams and assessments structured at SMU? Is class participation really graded?

Yes, class participation is formally graded at SMU, it is one of the defining features of the institution's teaching model. Beyond participation, the structure varies by course and professor. Most courses include a combination of group projects, presentations, a midterm, and a final exam. The weightage breakdown is communicated by the professor at the start of each course.

• Every course has a different grading structure, so students should note the breakdown for each class and plan accordingly.
• Teaching assistants are available in every course, they act as class monitors and can guide students on how to approach coursework and what professors look for.
• Students can also book direct consultations with professors, this support structure exists but you have to make use of it proactively.
• The assessment model is more continuous and presentation-heavy than the end-of-semester exam-only model common in Indian universities, which requires a different kind of preparation.