
1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-2039, USA


University of New Mexico is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards of quality and integrity regarding its academic programs and institutional operations. This accreditation is vital for prospective students as it validates the university's commitment to delivering education that is recognized and respected across other institutions and employers.
The university also holds specialized accreditations for various professional programs, which indicates that those programs meet the specific industry standards and prepare students effectively for their chosen careers. Such programmatic accreditations add an additional layer of assurance regarding the quality of education in fields such as nursing, engineering, education, and business.
Maintaining accreditation involves ongoing evaluation and improvement, demonstrating that the University of New Mexico continuously strives to enhance its academic offerings and student services. For students considering this university, these accreditations confirm that the institution is credible and dedicated to academic excellence.
The University of New Mexico requires prospective undergraduates to have completed a secondary school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential. A secondary school GPA and academic records must be submitted as part of the application, while a high school class rank is recommended but not mandatory. Submission of recommendation letters and demonstration of competencies are suggested to strengthen the application. Although the university does not have an open admission policy, applicants must have completed a college preparatory program before enrollment.
Standardized admission test scores are not universally required; however, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is mandatory for applicants whose native language is not English, and other tests are recommended. The university allows students to earn credits through Advanced Placement (AP) exams but does not currently accept dual credit courses or offer credit for college-level exams.
The admissions process at University of New Mexico is notably selective. The acceptance rate is approximately 95%, placing it in the higher range compared to many institutions. Approximately 12,320 applicants are admitted annually, with an enrollment figure of about 3,612 students, indicating a strong yield rate.
The average ACT score of admitted students is 23, which aligns with the lower middle range of national averages, reflecting moderate academic selectivity. SAT score data for admitted students is not available, which suggests that the university may place less emphasis on SAT scores or that data disclosure is limited.
The University of New Mexico requires prospective students to pay an application fee when submitting their admission forms. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with processing applications and is a standard requirement for most applicants. However, the university offers fee waivers to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder prospective students from applying.
Applicants who demonstrate financial need may qualify for a waiver of the application fee. To obtain this waiver, students typically need to provide documentation or proof of eligibility, such as qualifying for federal assistance programs or other economic hardship indicators. Additionally, fee waivers may be available for participants in certain outreach programs or those attending designated college fairs affiliated with the university.
The availability of fee waivers aims to promote equitable access to higher education by reducing financial barriers. Interested applicants should check the university's official admissions website or contact the admissions office directly for specific instructions on requesting and submitting fee waiver documentation.
The University of New Mexico offers ROTC programs that provide students with military training and leadership development while completing their college education. These programs are designed to prepare participants for careers as commissioned officers in the U. S. military. Specific branches or units of ROTC are available on campus, allowing students to engage directly with military training during their studies.
University of New Mexico welcomes transfer students during the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the academic year to enroll. Prospective transfer students can submit credits earned from various recognized examinations, including CLEP subject and general tests, as well as DANTES, facilitating smoother credit transfer and progression toward degree completion.
While the admission process is considered moderately difficult, the university accepts transfer credits and values recommendations as part of the application. These policies suggest a flexible but selective approach to admission, accommodating students coming from diverse academic backgrounds.
The University of New Mexico offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to provide students with international academic and cultural experiences. These programs include semester- and year-long options, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer sessions. Students can choose from opportunities across multiple continents, allowing them to tailor their experience to fit their academic goals and personal interests.
Many programs are developed in collaboration with partner universities worldwide, ensuring students have access to quality coursework that often counts toward their degree requirements. Language immersion and cultural activities are typically integrated into the programs to enhance the global learning experience.
The university also provides support services for study abroad participants, including pre-departure orientations, advising, and assistance with financial aid and scholarships aimed at reducing the cost burden for students. This support helps ensure that prospective participants are well-prepared for their time overseas and can maximize the benefits of their international education.
Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
8%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
48%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer