Top 12 New Mexico Scholarships & Grants for 2026 - 2027

New Mexico Scholarship & Financial Aid Snapshot

This quick snapshot is built from CollegeWhale’s scholarship database and state-level resources. It shows how many scholarships we currently list for New Mexico, the total dollars represented, and a short overview of key state aid programs.

We currently have 112 scholarships in our database tagged for New Mexico. This includes statewide programs, school-specific awards, and private or foundation-based scholarships.

Across our Top 12 New Mexico Scholarship & Grant listings, the total advertised award value comes to roughly $44,500. Some programs are renewable or stackable, so your real lifetime value could be even higher depending on how long you remain eligible.

New Mexico students benefit from two powerful tuition programs: the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship and the Opportunity Scholarship, which together make many programs tuition-free at public institutions. Adults returning to school or part-time students often qualify for Opportunity Scholarship funding as well. Rural students can access supplemental support through regional foundations. High-demand fields, especially in healthcare and education, receive additional incentives. New Mexico students should file the FAFSA early, consider starting at a community college, and stack local scholarships on top of state tuition programs for minimal cost.

Top 12 New Mexico Scholarships (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best New Mexico scholarships — fast. Filter by award amount, deadline month, and estimated time to apply, then instantly download your personalized list. No sign-ups, no personal info, no spam — just real, verified scholarships.

1

New Mexico 4-H Foundation Scholarship

The New Mexico 4‑H Youth Development Foundation offers the Academic Scholarship program to support past or current members of New Mexico 4‑H Program who plan to pursue post-secondary education at two-year or four-year colleges or universities in the U.S. The

Award: Varies Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
2

New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc. Scholarship

The scholarship offered by New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc. supports students with a background in wool, mohair, sheep or ranching operations in New Mexico, who plan to enroll in a post-secondary program. Applicants should show a commitment to the state’s

Award: $500 Deadline: April Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
3

New Mexico CowBelles Scholarship

The New Mexico CowBelles’ Pat Nowlin Memorial Scholarship is offered annually in honor of founding member and first state president Pat Nowlin. The program supports deserving CowBelle members (or their children or grandchildren) who are either high-school seniors entering college

Award: $500 Deadline: April Est. Time: Low (~28 min)
4

New Mexico Press Association Scholarship

The scholarship program offered by the New Mexico Press Association supports aspiring journalists and communication students who demonstrate dedication to news reporting, writing, multimedia journalism or broadcast journalism—especially with connections to newspapers, community media or journalism in New Mexico. Applicants

Award: Varies Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
5

New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry Scholarship

The New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry (NM ACI) Scholarship provides financial support for New Mexico high-school seniors or current undergraduates who plan to pursue college degrees and contribute to the economic development of New Mexico. These awards are

Award: Varies Deadline: April Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
6

New Mexico Petroleum Marketers Association Scholarship

The scholarship program offered by the New Mexico Petroleum Marketers Association (NMPMA) – in partnership with the regional Western Petroleum Marketers Association (WPMA) – supports children or dependents of petroleum marketer member companies who are entering their first year of

Award: $10,000 Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~58 min)
7

New Mexico Mining Association Scholarship

The scholarship program of the New Mexico Mining Association supports students who are residents of New Mexico and are pursuing studies in mining, mineral resources, geological sciences, mining engineering, environmental reclamation related to mining, or other mineral‐industry disciplines. This award

Award: Varies Deadline: March Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
8

New Mexico Credit Union Foundation Scholarship

The New Mexico Credit Union Education Foundation (NMCUEF) awards annual scholarships to New Mexico residents who plan to pursue post-secondary education in the state. These scholarships are aimed at supporting students attending vocational/technical schools, community colleges, or four-year universities—and applicants

Award: $500 Deadline: February Est. Time: Med (~48 min)
9

New Mexico Restaurant Association Education Foundation Scholarship

The scholarship program of the New Mexico Restaurant Association (NMRA) Education Foundation supports students who plan to pursue post-secondary education or training in the restaurant, food service, hospitality, or culinary arts sectors. The aim is to help build the hospitality

Award: $250 Deadline: June Est. Time: Med (~78 min)
10

Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund

The Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund, a partnership between LNESC and Macy’s, provides immediate financial assistance to full-time college students facing unexpected economic hardship that could prevent them from completing classes or their degree program. Funds are intended for tuition and

Award: $500 Deadline: Rolling Est. Time: Med (~58 min)
11

Daniels Scholarship Program

The Daniels Scholarship Program, created by cable television pioneer Bill Daniels, provides deserving high school seniors from Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming with the opportunity to pursue their college dreams. This comprehensive scholarship not only covers tuition, fees, and

Award: $25,000 Deadline: October Est. Time: Low (~10 min)
12

NACA Northern Plains Regional Student Leadership Scholarship

The NACA Northern Plains Regional Student Leadership Scholarship is offered by the NACA Foundation to recognize undergraduate students in the Northern Plains region who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and made significant contributions to their campus communities. Eligibility criteria include: Academic

Award: $500 Deadline: November Est. Time: Med (~48 min)

New Mexico Scholarships, Grants & Financial Aid Overview

Article Read Time Is 4 Mins

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.

College Scholarships By Category

Quickly navigate to some of our most popular scholarships, such as state-specific scholarships, major-specific scholarships, and other popular categories. Please search our Scholarship Database to get matched with many more scholarships specific to your personal criteria.