New Mexico Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of New Mexico Scholarships & Grants

New Mexico offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in New Mexico more affordable.

New Mexico Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships make many programs tuition-free.

How to Get a Grant for College in New Mexico?

To secure a grant for college in New Mexico, follow these steps:

• Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for most federal and state grants. Submit it as early as possible to maximize your chances.
• Apply for State-Specific Grants: Programs like the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship and the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship are available to residents.
• Contact Your Institution: Many colleges and universities in New Mexico offer additional institutional grants and scholarships.

Reach out to the New Mexico Higher Education Department for more information about state-funded programs.

What Is the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship?

The New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship is a need-based program that covers tuition and fees for New Mexico residents attending two- or four-year public colleges in the state. To qualify, students must:

• Be New Mexico residents.
• Enroll in at least six credit hours per semester at a participating institution.
• Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

This program is designed to make higher education more accessible for all New Mexico residents, including adult learners and part-time students.

What Is the New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship?

The New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship provides tuition assistance to New Mexico residents attending public colleges or universities. Eligibility includes:

• Graduating from a New Mexico high school or earning a New Mexico GED.
• Enrolling full-time at a participating institution within 16 months of high school graduation.
• Maintaining a 2.5 GPA or higher.

The scholarship covers a portion of tuition costs and is renewable for up to seven semesters.

Does New Mexico Offer Full-Ride Scholarships?

Yes, New Mexico offers several full-ride scholarships. These include:

• New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship: Covers a significant portion of tuition for high-achieving students.
• New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship: Covers full tuition and fees for eligible students.
• Institution-Specific Scholarships: Schools like the University of New Mexico (UNM) and New Mexico State University (NMSU) offer full-ride scholarships for exceptional students.

These programs require strong academic performance and may have additional criteria.

Scholarships in New Mexico for High School Seniors

High school seniors in New Mexico can apply for scholarships such as:

• New Mexico Legislative Lottery Scholarship: Available to recent high school graduates with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
• Roadrunner Scholarship: Merit-based award for students attending UNM.
• Local Community Scholarships: Many local organizations offer scholarships to graduating seniors in New Mexico.

Work with your school counselor to explore additional opportunities specific to your community.

Scholarships in New Mexico for Adults

Adult learners in New Mexico can access programs like:

• New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship: Designed for both part-time and full-time students, including adults returning to school.
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Grants: Provide funding for career-focused education and training programs.

These scholarships and grants aim to support non-traditional students pursuing higher education or career advancement.

University of New Mexico (UNM) Scholarships

The University of New Mexico offers several scholarships for students, including:

• Regents’ Scholarship: A full-ride scholarship for top-performing students.
• Amigo Scholarship: Reduces tuition costs for out-of-state students.
• Bridge to Success Scholarship: Provides one year of tuition assistance for incoming freshmen.

Students are encouraged to visit the UNM scholarship portal for details and application deadlines.

New Mexico State University (NMSU) Scholarships

New Mexico State University offers scholarships such as:

• Presidential Scholarship: Full tuition for high-achieving students.
• Crimson Scholars Program: Awards for students with exceptional academic performance.
• Transfer Student Scholarships: Funding for students transferring from community colleges.

NMSU’s financial aid office can provide more details about these opportunities.

What Is the New Mexico Scholars Program?

The New Mexico Scholars Program provides tuition and fee assistance to students from families with low to moderate income. Eligibility includes:

• Graduating in the top 5% of your high school class or scoring 25 or higher on the ACT.
• Demonstrating financial need through the FAFSA.
• Attending a public or private college in New Mexico full-time.

This program ensures that high-achieving students can pursue higher education without financial barriers.

Grants for College in New Mexico

New Mexico offers several grants to support college students, including:

• New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship: Covers tuition and fees for eligible residents.
• Federal Pell Grant: A need-based grant available to students who complete the FAFSA.
• College Affordability Grant: Provides financial assistance to students who demonstrate significant financial need.

These grants ensure access to higher education for students across New Mexico.

How to Apply for New Mexico Scholarships and Grants

To apply for scholarships and grants in New Mexico:

• Complete the FAFSA: This is the first step for most state and federal aid programs.
• Research State-Specific Programs: Explore opportunities like the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship and Legislative Lottery Scholarship.
• Check Institution-Specific Scholarships: Contact your college’s financial aid office for additional funding opportunities.

Apply early and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements to maximize your financial aid opportunities.