SANTA FE — New Mexico achieved one of the largest year-over-year FAFSA completion increases in the country this year, joining just three other states to hit a 20% gain as national completion rates reached an all-time high.
The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) reported that 54.7% of high school seniors nationwide completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as of May 1-- nearly two months ahead of the June 30 benchmark. New Mexico stands out as one of only four states, alongside Alaska, Arizona and Florida, to record at least a 20% increase over last year, a reflection of the state’s sustained push to make college affordable and accessible.
“New Mexico’s students continue to show what is possible when a state invests in its people,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “This year’s extraordinary gains in FAFSA completion reflect the dedication of our educators, families, and communities statewide. Combined with our tuition‑free college program, these efforts ensure that every New Mexican — no matter their background — has a clear, affordable path to pursue their goals.”
This achievement builds on New Mexico’s broader momentum in higher education. Nearly 118,000 New Mexicans are pursuing credit-bearing certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees and graduate programs, part of a 13.6% enrollment increase since 2021. New Mexico remains one of only two states in the nation to see consistent enrollment growth over the past four years.
Together, these programs have propelled the state to 20th in the nation for higher education and continue to draw national praise for innovation, accessibility, and student success.
The state’s strong FAFSA numbers align with broader trends in higher education success.
As New Mexico looks toward the year ahead, state leaders remain focused on expanding access, supporting adult learners and ensuring every student has the resources and guidance needed to pursue higher education with loan repayment programs, access to adult education at little to no cost and providing tuition-free college.
For more information about the New Mexico Higher Education Department and its programs, visit hed.nm.gov. To learn more about tuition‑free college opportunities through the Opportunity and Lottery scholarships, visit ReachHigherNM.com or call the Financial Aid Help Line at 1 (800) 279‑9777.