🎓 University of New Mexico Scholarships (2025–2026)
← Back to the Public University Scholarships hub • See New Mexico state aid
- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~97% (CDS 2024–25)
- Middle 50% ACT: 19–26
- Middle 50% SAT: 900–1160
- Average HS GPA: 3.45
Source: University of New Mexico Common Data Set 2024–25 and Undergraduate Admissions.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
University of New Mexico at a Glance
Last verified: November 6, 2025
The University of New Mexico (UNM) offers some of the most generous automatic scholarships in the West—especially for strong GPA students. Combined with state-funded programs like the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship, many residents pay little to no tuition or fees.
Out-of-state families also benefit: through a mix of WUE discounts and automatic merit, UNM often brings costs close to in-state levels elsewhere—making it one of the most affordable R1 research universities in the region.
FAQ
Does UNM award automatic merit? Yes — automatic merit scholarships are based on GPA and test scores, with no separate application required.
What’s the best scholarship for New Mexico residents? The Opportunity Scholarship (covers full tuition and fees) and the Regents Scholarship (full ride for top NM students).
Can out-of-state students get reduced tuition? Yes — through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) or merit awards, often cutting costs by more than half.
What’s the average net price? Around $11,555 after grants and scholarships (College Scorecard 2025).
https://oia.unm.edu/resources/cds_24-25_pdf.pdf
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?187985-University-of-New-Mexico-Main-Campus
https://hed.nm.gov/news/new-mexicos-opportunity-scholarship-receives-national-recognition-for-free-college-tuition-policy
https://hed.nm.gov/financial-aid/residency-requirements
https://go.unm.edu/scholarships/wue.html
https://www.collegetuitioncompare.com/edu/187985/university-of-new-mexico-main-campus/tuition/
https://global.nmsu.edu/blog/general/new-mexico-opportunity-scholarship-frequently-asked-questions/
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/regents-scholarship/5947/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C_jTAOySMOP/?hl=en
https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/University-of-New-Mexico-sat-scores-GPA
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of New Mexico (2025–2026)
The University of New Mexico’s direct costs include tuition, mandatory fees, and typical on-campus housing and meals for a full-time undergraduate in Albuquerque. These figures reflect official 2025–2026 estimates.
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees | $11,519 | $35,126 |
| Housing & Meals (on-campus) | $11,993 | $11,993 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $23,512 | $47,119 |
Note: These amounts reflect only direct costs billed by UNM. Indirect expenses such as books, transportation, and personal costs may add an additional $4,500–$5,000 per year, depending on major and living arrangements.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
According to federal data, the average net price at UNM is about $11,555 per year after scholarships and grants. Typical in-state students pay around $7,000–$7,500 after aid, while out-of-state students receiving merit or WUE discounts often pay $13,000–$17,000. For a personalized estimate, use UNM’s Net Price Calculator or our Net Price & SAI Guide.
- Opportunity Scholarship (In-State): Covers full tuition and mandatory fees for most NM residents who maintain a 2.5 GPA and enroll full-time.
- Amigo Scholarship: Nonresidents with a 3.0 GPA + 23 ACT (1130 SAT) qualify to pay the in-state rate — saving about $17,000/year.
- Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE): Students from participating western states pay 150% of in-state tuition. Minimum eligibility: 2.8 GPA or ACT 18 (SAT 960).
Details and GPA/test thresholds may vary annually — check the Automatic Merit Scholarships section or our WUE Guide for updates.
👉 New Mexico State Grants & Scholarships
https://admissions.unm.edu/costs-financial-aid/
https://bursar.unm.edu/tuition-and-fees/tuition-and-fee-rates.html
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?187985-University-of-New-Mexico-Main-Campus
https://collegereadyparent.org/university-of-new-mexico-scholarships/
https://hed.nm.gov/free-college-for-new-mexico
https://www.meetyourclass.com/unm/cost
https://www.cnm.edu/depts/financial-aid/scholarships/new-mexico-opportunity-scholarship
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/amigo-scholarship/5950/
https://go.unm.edu/scholarships/wue.html
https://universityofnewmexico.campusdish.com/en/mealplans/
Automatic Merit Scholarships — University of New Mexico
UNM awards several admission-based scholarships automatically—no extra forms required. Awards are based on GPA and test scores and can stack with the state-funded New Mexico Lottery Scholarship (after the first term). Western students may also qualify for WUE or WUE Plus tuition discounts. Learn more in our WUE Guide.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amigo Scholarship | Out-of-state tuition offset (≈$17,000 / year) | 3.0 GPA + 23 ACT (1130 SAT); mark UNM as First Choice | No | Yes (4 years) | Out-of-state admits who meet GPA / test minimum and indicate UNM First Choice | Feb 1 Priority |
| Lobo Pride Scholarship | $3,000 – $8,000 per year | 3.0 + GPA; higher ACT/SAT yields larger award | No | Yes (4 years) | Solid B + / A – students; amount scales with stronger test scores | Feb 1 Priority |
| New Mexico Lottery Scholarship | Covers base tuition (after 1st semester) | In-state; 15 + credits in first term with 2.5 GPA | No | Yes (through graduation) | Most in-state students who stay full-time and meet grade requirements | FAFSA/TASFA by June 1 |
| WUE ( Western Undergraduate Exchange ) | Pays 150 % of in-state tuition | 2.8 GPA or ACT 18 (SAT 960); residency in WUE state | No (admission-based) | Yes (see terms) | Western-state students meeting minimum academics; strong value if Amigo isn’t secured | Feb 1 Priority |
| WUE Plus | Pays New Mexico resident rate | 3.0 GPA or ACT 20 (SAT 1030); residency in WUE state | No (admission-based) | Yes (see terms) | Higher-achieving Western students meeting stronger GPA/test mark | Feb 1 Priority |
What does “First Choice” mean for the Amigo Scholarship? Students should mark UNM as their first-choice institution on the Common App or UNM application. This signals intent and ensures consideration for the Amigo tuition offset.
Note: GPA and test ranges reflect UNM’s published guidelines and recent awards. Actual thresholds may shift each year based on funding and applicant pool.
Automatic Scholarship FAQs
Do I need to apply separately?
No. All these awards are automatic upon admission to UNM.
Can students qualify test-optional?
Yes, GPA-only admission can earn consideration, but ACT/SAT scores often increase award levels.
Can the Lottery Scholarship stack with Amigo, WUE, or Lobo Pride?
Yes. UNM permits stacking; the Lottery Scholarship kicks in after the first semester for eligible in-state students.
https://scholarships.unm.edu/Resources/scholarship-criteria.html
https://scholarships.unm.edu/Resources/lottery-scholarships.html
https://go.unm.edu/scholarships/wue.html
https://www.collegeraptor.com/scholarships/University-of-New-Mexico-Main-Campus-NM–187985/Lobo-Undergraduate-Exchange-Programs-LUE-LUE-Plus–179417/
https://hed.nm.gov/financial-aid/scholarships/competitive
https://scholarships.unm.edu/Resources/non-lottery-scholarships.html
https://www.fastweb.com/college-scholarships/scholarships/3748-amigo-scholarship
https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/amigo-scholarship/5950/
https://international.unm.edu/undergraduate/scholarship-and-cost-of-attendance.html
https://ibisworld.com/university/university-of-new-mexico-5750/scholarships/
Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships)
These scholarships require a separate application or review process. Most are awarded to incoming freshmen through UNM’s Special Scholarships Application or via academic departments.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regents’ Scholarship | Full tuition + annual stipend | ACT 32+ (SAT ≈1450) and 4.0 GPA; demonstrated leadership and service | Yes | Yes (4 years) | Only a few students each year; typically the top 1–2% academically with exceptional extracurriculars | Dec 1 |
| Presidential Scholarship | Full tuition + partial fees | ACT 30+ (SAT ≈1360) and 3.8+ GPA | Yes | Yes (4 years) | High-achieving students with strong academics and leadership/service experience | Feb 1 |
| UNM Scholars Scholarship | $2,000–$5,000 per year | ACT 27+ (SAT ≈1280) and GPA 3.5–3.8 | Yes | Yes | Strong students just below Presidential level—competitive but attainable | Feb 1 |
Note: GPA and test score criteria are based on UNM’s official requirements and prior award data. Actual cutoffs and amounts vary each year depending on applicant pool and funding.
Competitive Scholarship FAQ
What are the main deadlines?
The Regents’ Scholarship deadline is typically December 1.
The Presidential and UNM Scholars applications are usually due by February 1.
Confirm the current year’s dates on the official UNM site.
Do these require essays or recommendations?
Yes. Most competitive awards include at least one essay, a résumé, and recommendation letters.
Can students apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes. The Special Scholarships Application allows students to be considered for several awards simultaneously, though some departmental or donor scholarships may require separate steps.
Can competitive awards stack with automatic merit?
In most cases, yes. Regents’ and Presidential scholarships can combine with automatic awards like the Lobo Pride or Amigo, as long as total aid doesn’t exceed cost of attendance.
How selective are these scholarships?
Extremely selective. Regents’ winners are typically 32+ ACT, 4.0 GPA students with significant leadership or service; Presidential recipients often have 30+ ACT and near-perfect GPAs.
https://scholarships.unm.edu/
https://collegereadyparent.org/university-of-new-mexico-scholarships/
https://collegexpress.com/scholarships/regents-scholarship/5947/
https://scholarship.unm.edu/common/documents/regents-scholarship-handbook.pdf
https://financialaid.unm.edu/apply/applying.html
https://finaid.unm.edu/assets/common/documents/getting-started-undergrad.pdf
https://scholarship.unm.edu/Resources/scholarship-criteria.html
https://scholaroo.com/scholarship/presidential-scholarship-new-mexico-scholarship/
https://www.scholarships.com/scholarships/university-of-new-mexico-presidential-scholarship
https://scholarships.com/scholarships/unm-scholars-111_276905.aspx
https://artsci.unm.edu/for-students/scholarships/resources.html
https://scholarships.unm.edu/Resources/non-lottery-scholarships.html
https://scholarships.unm.edu/Resources/tips.html
Honors College at the University of New Mexico
The University of New Mexico Honors College offers a small-college experience within a major research university. Students enjoy smaller classes, one-on-one faculty mentoring, research and travel funding, and priority registration. Admission is competitive but designed for curious, motivated learners — not just those with perfect GPAs.
- High school GPA: 3.7–4.0 (competitive starts around 3.5+)
- ACT: 27+ / SAT: 1280+ (if submitted; test optional)
- Active in leadership, service, music, or research
- Interested in smaller, discussion-based courses and mentoring
Honors College Scholarships
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Honors Scholarship | $500–$1,000 | Current Honors students in good standing | Yes | No (one-year award) | Students active in Honors courses and community events | March 15 |
| Donor-Named Awards (e.g., Keleher Scholarship) | Varies ($500–$3,000 typical) | Outstanding Honors students; may consider financial need | Yes | Some renewable | High-performing Honors students with leadership or research involvement | March 15 |
Note: These awards are available after students are admitted to the Honors College. Applications typically open each spring.
Honors College FAQs (University of New Mexico)
Do Honors students live together?
Many choose the Honors Residential Community—a designated housing option that promotes study groups and peer connections.
What are the main benefits?
Smaller classes, personalized advising, early registration, research funding, and preparation for graduate school or national scholarships.
Are Honors classes harder?
They’re more discussion- and writing-focused—not about extra work. Students often say Honors courses are more engaging, not more stressful.
When should we apply?
Ideally during fall or early spring of senior year. Early acceptance helps with housing and scholarship eligibility.
https://honors.unm.edu/admissions-housing/index.html
https://honors.unm.edu/academics/annual-honors-scholarships.html
https://honors.unm.edu/admissions-housing/scholars-wing.html
https://honors.unm.edu/academics/honors-scholarships.html
https://honors.unm.edu/academics/research-opportunities.html
https://housing.unm.edu/residence-halls/src.html
https://prepscholar.com/sat/s/colleges/University-of-New-Mexico-admission-requirements
https://testbook.com/en-us/college/university-of-new-mexico-admissions
https://honors.unm.edu/academics/annual-honors-scholarships.html
https://unmhonorscollege.submittable.com
http://news.unm.edu/news/s-cap-provides-travel-grants-to-students-attending-academic-professional-conferences
Specialty Programs & National Strengths
UNM is a flagship R1 research university, meaning it’s among the campuses in the highest tier of doctoral research productivity — students get access to cutting-edge labs, real-world problem-solving, and opportunities. The Lobos shine in both health sciences and engineering, and the university brings talent and innovation to New Mexico’s classrooms, clinics, and communities.
Nationally Known For: UNM’s Nursing Midwifery graduate program ranks **#10 in the U.S.**, among the very best in the nation. (Yes—it’s an R1 institution.)
- Engineering (graduate overall): Ranked among the top 100 nationally — the only New Mexico program to do so.
- Earth Sciences: Ranked #46 in national doctorate programs.
- History (grad doctorate): Ranked #48 nationally.
- Behavioural & Social Sciences: Sociology #70, Political Science #81, English #89, Economics #100.
- Online bachelor’s programs: Psychology #18; Business #41.
- School of Law: Only law school in NM; ranked #94 (tie).
- Medicine (Primary Care): #4 in the nation; Family Medicine #11; top for serving underserved/rural areas.