SANTA FE — College enrollment in New Mexico has increased for the fifth consecutive year, according to preliminary fall 2026 census data released by the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
A total of 115,231 students are enrolled at public colleges and universities statewide, a 1.2 percent increase from 2025. The growth sustains the upward trend in enrollment since the enactment of the Opportunity Scholarship in 2021.
Statewide enrollment has grown 14.9 percent over the past five years, adding more than 14,000 additional students across New Mexico’s higher education system. Officials attribute the continued rise in part to the Opportunity Scholarship, which provides tuition‑free access for eligible New Mexicans pursuing certificates, associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees.
“New Mexico’s students continue to take advantage of the educational opportunities available to them,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “Our state’s commitment to affordability and access is making a real, measurable difference for New Mexicans of all ages. Five years of steady growth shows that when we invest in students, they show up.”
The state’s three research universities saw the strongest year‑over‑year increase at 2.6 percent, and branch community colleges continued their upward momentum with 1.6 percent growth. Enrollment at comprehensive universities and independent community colleges remained stable. Overall participation across all sectors continues to rise as adult learners and returning students reengage with higher education.
Several campuses saw significant enrollment gains this fall. Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso grew by 15.5 percent, University of New Mexico-Gallup by 15.1 percent, Northern New Mexico College by 5.1 percent and University of New Mexico-Taos by 4.9 percent, highlighting strong local outreach and workforce‑aligned programming especially in New Mexico’s rural communities.
“These institutions are demonstrating how targeted student support and strong community partnerships can create real momentum,” said Deputy Secretary Patricia Trujillo, Ph.D. “Their success reflects the commitment of faculty and staff who work every day to help students reach their goals.”
New Mexico continues to outpace national trends that show volatility or decline in college participation. The ongoing growth since 2021 underscores the long‑term stability of the state’s higher education system and the effectiveness of policies that reduce financial barriers for students.
For more information about college opportunities and state financial aid programs, visit ReachHigherNM.com.