Reach Higher New Mexico

Not sure where to begin? We can help!

To get started let's answer a few questions. Do any of these apply to you within the last 18 months?

I graduated from high school
I completed a high school equivalency credential
I was honorably discharged from the military

It looks like you are considered a recent high school graduate.

The Lottery Scholarship, New Mexico’s first tuition-free college program, covers 100% of tuition for recent New Mexico high school graduates.

Click here to learn more about scholarship options for you!

Do you plan on enrolling in a for-credit certificate, two-year, or four-year program at a public college or university in New Mexico?

Yes No

New Mexico state scholarship programs can only be used at public colleges or universities in New Mexico.

New Mexico state scholarship programs can only be used toward for-credit certificate and degree programs at one of the 29 participating public colleges and universities in the state.

Click here to view participating schools.

Do any of these apply to you?

I have already earned a bachelor's degree
I have 160 credit hours or more on my transcript from previous college attendance

Yes No

The New Mexico Lottery and Opportunity Scholarships are for students who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree and who have fewer than 160 credit hours on their transcript.

However, we encourage you to explore our loan-for-service and loan repayment plans:

It looks like you are considered a returning adult student.

The Opportunity Scholarship makes it possible for you to pursue a college degree or career training certificate, even if you are starting college for the first time later in life, or going back after many years.

Click here to learn more about scholarship options for you!

Contact Us

The New Mexico Higher Education Department is here to help you! Please contact us directly if you have questions or need help. You can also submit a question by completing the web form below.

New Mexico Higher Education Department

Financial Aid Division
Phone: 1-800-279-9777
Email: fin.aid@hed.nm.gov
Website: www.hed.nm.gov

Reach Higher New Mexico

Reach Higher New Mexico

Contact Us

New Mexico Higher Education Department

Student Testimonials

"I opted to enroll at NMSU where I received both the Opportunity Scholarship and the Lottery. All of my financial needs have been met I eventually hope to get my master’s degree in athletic training and work as an athletic trainer at the NCAA and professional level.”

“With The Opportunity Scholarship and Lottery Scholarship I am able to attend CNM without having to pay out of pocket for fees. After completing my Associate’s in Business at CNM, I plan on transferring to a four-year university and possibly open my own business one day.”

"The Opportunity Scholarship has made my financial situation easier to overcome since I have to pay for gas to drive 80 miles to and from campus. This scholarship means making someone’s dream come true and not having so much anxiety. It’s nice to know that someone cares about my education."

Reach Higher New Mexico