New Mexico college enrollment increases for the second consecutive year

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – New Mexico's college enrollment has grown for the second consecutive year, increasing 4.2% from spring 2024 to spring 2025, according to the New Mexico Higher Education Department. With over 5,000 students currently pursuing degrees and certifications at New Mexico's higher education institutions, the department attributes the rising trend to the state's tuition-free college programs, like the Opportunity and Lottery scholarships.
According to the department's estimates, over 34,000 students are receiving financial assistance through the Opportunity Scholarship, and around 10,000 students are receiving the Lottery Scholarship this spring.
21 students honored for graduating from PNM's Power Pros program
'The Opportunity and Lottery scholarships are fulfilling their goal of empowering tens of thousands of New Mexicans to pursue a college education at no cost for tuition and create a more prosperous future for themselves and their families,' said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. 'As we always say, there is no wrong door to higher education in New Mexico, and we are dedicated to supporting programs that broaden opportunities for our state.'
To find out more about the Opportunity and Lottery scholarships, click here.
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