Scholarships

Scholarship Resources for New Mexicos Students

In addition to grants, many students qualify for scholarship programs. While many scholarships are dependent upon financial need, most also do require the student to maintain good academic standing to renew the scholarship. Scholarships with high academic merit requirements will usually pay more to students than those available to all students. Please note that while many scholarships can be renewed each semester, if you fail to maintain the necessary GPA or other requirements you may not reapply.

$500 FAFSA Scholarship

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Grants & Work Study

Grants & Work Study

NEW MEXICO OPPORTUNITY SCHOLARSHIP

What is the Opportunity Scholarship?

The Opportunity Scholarship can be used to cover up to 100% of tuition and required fees at any New Mexico public college or university. The Opportunity Scholarship requires no application and automatically applies to students who are eligible. The main focus of this scholarship is to give funding to return learners who are coming back or starting higher education after at least two years after your last semester.

What is Tuition-Free College?
  • Full tuition and fees are covered at New Mexico public colleges and universities
  • Includes part-time and full-time students
  • For students pursuing credit-bearing career training certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees
  • Available to all New Mexico residents per residency standards set by the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
Additional Questions?

You may call NMHED at 1-800-279-9777 or email fin.aid@state.nm.us

NM LOTTERY SCHOLARSHIP

How much is the lottery scholarship and what does it cover?

The Lottery Scholarship covers up to 100% of tuition including books, food, transportation, and room and board. Learn more about the Lottery Scholarship here. 

When does the lottery scholarship start?

The scholarship starts the 2nd semester a student is enrolled. A scholarship is typically available for first-time freshmen who are in the process of qualifying for the Legislative Lottery Scholarship. This scholarship, known as the Bridge or other name depending on the institution, and is offered to help cover tuition charges and registration fees for the Lottery Qualifying Term. The Qualifying Term is the first term of attendance after earning a New Mexico diploma, New Mexico GED, or state approved credential. Check with your prospective school for details about the scholarships available to help cover the first term of attendance.

What are the enrollment requirements?

Students must be a New Mexico resident, graduated from a New Mexico high school (public or accredited private) or earn high school equivalency, enroll full time at New Mexico public college or university within 16 months of graduating high school, establish and maintain a 2.5 GPA beginning your first semester while pursuing an associate, or bachelor’s degree.

How do I apply?

There is no application for the Lottery Scholarship. Contact your prospective school’s financial aid office for details.

How do I keep the Lottery Scholarship?

Students must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA and stay enrolled at least 12 credit hours for 2-year schools and 15 credit hours for 4-year schools.

What if I have more questions?

See information at Maximizing Opportunities as a Recent High School Graduate – Reach Higher New Mexico (reachhighernm.com)

Call the NMHED, Financial Aid Division at 1-800-279-9777
Email: fin.aid@state.nm.us

SCHOLARSHIP LINKS

NM Scholarship Resources

The following organizations have resources and lists to find and apply for scholarships and grants for New Mexico organizations, colleges, and universities:

 

New Mexico College & University Scholarships Resources

Other NM & National Scholarships & Grants Links

Avoid Scholarship Scams

Here are the top red flags and tricks of scholarship scams.

#1

Application or Search Fees

Avoid scholarships that charge an application fee, the vast majority of scholarships do not cost money.

#2

Disbursement or Redemption Fees

Scholarships should not ask you to pay a fee before you receive the funds.

#3

Guaranteed Scholarships

Beware of scholarship matching services that guarantee you’ll win a scholarship and require a fee for the search.

#4

Credit Card or Bank Account Number

Never give out this information to apply for or hold the scholarship.

#5

Unclaimed Scholarships

Very few actual scholarships go unclaimed and the majority of all financial aid comes from the federal government and colleges.