The University of New Mexico is once again offering The Lobo First-Year Promise for Fall 2021. Qualified first-time freshmen who have graduated from a New Mexico high school and have an annual family income of $50,000—roughly the state’s median family income—or less will have base tuition and fees for full-time enrollment covered for the 2021-22 academic year.

“We offered The Lobo First-Year Promise for the first time this fall and the response from students and families was extraordinary,” said Dan García, UNM’s vice president for enrollment management. In Fall 2020, a full third of UNM’s incoming freshman class from New Mexico benefited.

García says that the University of New Mexico wants to reassure lower-income and academically-talented students and their families in New Mexico that a university education is possible during 2021-22. The Lobo First-Year Promise provides that guarantee. 

"UNM is thrilled to be able to offer this Lobo First-Year Promise to incoming New Mexican students entering in Fall of 2021," said Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs James Holloway. "We want all New Mexicans to know that they have options, and that attending the state's flagship university is well within reach. This program will allow more students to have a choice, and to select a higher education option based on their needs and aspirations, rather than cost."

The priority date has been extended to Feb. 1 for prospective students. Qualified students who apply for admission to UNM and submit a financial aid application (FAFSA) will be awarded. 

Full eligibility details are below:

  • Be a New Mexico resident and a graduate of a New Mexico high school within the past sixteen (16) months.
  • Be admitted to UNM for Fall 2021 and attend as a first-time, full-time freshman.
  • Enroll full-time in and complete a minimum of fifteen (15) credit hours in both fall and spring during the 2021-22 academic year and earn a 2.50 or greater GPA.
  • Have a family income of $50,000 or less.
  • Submit the 2021-22 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and all required official admissions documentation (application for admission, transcripts, test scores) by Feb. 1.

For more information about full eligibility requirements, visit promise.unm.edu.