SANTA FE – Most public colleges and universities in New Mexico will waive application fees throughout November, eliminating a financial barrier for prospective students during the annual ‘No Fee November’ initiative.
The program is supported by the New Mexico Higher Education Department, New Mexico Public Education Department and New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation.
Since the Opportunity Scholarship Act passed in 2022, college enrollment in New Mexico has increased for four consecutive years. Fall enrollment is up 3.6% this year, with more than 40,000 New Mexicans pursuing career training certificates, associate and bachelor's degrees.
“New Mexico continues to lead the nation in college access and affordability through the Opportunity and Lottery scholarships,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “The ‘No Fee November’ initiative helps eliminate another barrier to applying for college.”
Students are encouraged to apply early to allow time to review admissions requirements, programs of study and financial aid options. Early submission also provides the best chance for admission and scholarship consideration.
“Removing application fees allows more students—especially those from lower-income families—to apply to multiple colleges and universities and find the best fit for their goals,” said Assistant Vice President Grace Tackman, New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation. “When students find the right fit, they are more likely to complete their degrees and contribute to a stronger New Mexico.”
Many New Mexico high schools are hosting application events this month with recruiters from state and regional colleges. The College Application Month campaign also involves counselors, educators and community partners who assist students and families in researching and completing college applications.
“We want every student, regardless of their background or financial situation, to know that college is within reach,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla. “By removing fees during National College Application Month, we’re ensuring cost doesn’t prevent any New Mexico student from applying.”
Educators, families and community members can participate in the campaign by sharing their college stories on social media using #WhyApply and tagging @NMHigherEd. New Mexicans can find links to college applications, scholarship information and resources at ReachHigherNM.com.
Participating Colleges and Universities
Schools waiving application fees in November:
- Diné College
- New Mexico State University – Main Campus runs from July-December 1.
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech)
- UNM – Gallup
- UNM – Taos
- UNM – Valencia
- Western New Mexico University
Schools with no application fees year-round:
- Central New Mexico Community College
- Clovis Community College
- Eastern New Mexico University – Portales
- 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 the Southwest