Free applications pair with tuition-free college as statewide enrollment grows for a fifth straight year
SANTA FE — Throughout November, New Mexicans can apply for free to 24 colleges and universities across the state as part of the annual “No Fee November” initiative.
Three schools (Diné College, New Mexico State University and New Mexico Tech) are waiving application fees for the month. Another 21 colleges, including Central New Mexico Community College, San Juan College and Eastern New Mexico University, charge no application fee at any time of year.
Students who apply during “No Fee November” can take advantage of New Mexico's nation-leading financial aid programs, including the Opportunity and Lottery scholarships, which provides tuition-free college for eligible students attending public colleges and universities across the state.
The approach is working. Fall 2026 enrollment at New Mexico’s public colleges and universities reached 115,231 students, according to preliminary data from the New Mexico Higher Education Department. That is up 1.2 percent from last year and marks the fifth consecutive year of growth. Since 2021, enrollment has risen 14.9 percent, adding more than 14,000 students.
The initiative is supported by the New Mexico Higher Education Department, New Mexico Public Education Department and New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation.
By removing application costs, the campaign encourages individuals to explore higher education options and apply to New Mexico colleges and universities that fit their educational and career goals while growing the state’s workforce.
“New Mexico is leading the nation in making higher education accessible and affordable for everyone,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “Through ‘No Fee November’ and the Opportunity Scholarship, we are removing financial barriers at every stage of the college journey, from applying to enrolling and earning a degree or credential. Together, these initiatives open doors to new careers, economic mobility, and brighter futures for New Mexicans in every corner of our state.”
Students are encouraged to begin their applications early to give themselves time to review admissions requirements, compare programs of study and explore financial aid options. Applying early can also help students meet institutional deadlines for admission and scholarship consideration.
“Applying to college is an exciting step, and students should have the opportunity to explore multiple paths without worrying about application costs,” said Tracy Rowe, CFO and VP of Finance of the New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation. “This initiative encourages students to consider their options, find the schools and programs that fit their goals and take the first step toward their future.”
“We want every New Mexico student to graduate knowing that higher education is within reach,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla. “No Fee November invites students to turn that possibility into reality by exploring their college options and applying at no cost.”
Participating Colleges and Universities
Schools waiving application fees in November:
- Diné College
- New Mexico State University-Main until December 1.
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Schools with no application fees year-round:
- Central New Mexico Community College
- Clovis Community College
- Eastern New Mexico University-Main
- ENMU-Roswell
- ENMU-Ruidoso
- Luna Community College
- Mesalands Community College
- New Mexico Junior College
- New Mexico Military Institute
- NMSU-Alamogordo
- NMSU-Doña Ana
- NMSU-Grants
- Northern New Mexico College
- San Juan College
- Santa Fe Community College
- Southeast New Mexico College
- University of New Mexico-Los Alamos
- University of New Mexico-Gallup
- University of New Mexico-Taos
- University of New Mexico-Valencia
- University of the Southwest
Learn more about tuition-free programs and eligible college’s and universities across the state at ReachHigherNM.com.