SANTA FE, N.M. — Enrollment at New Mexico’s public colleges and universities continues to grow, marking a fifth consecutive year of increases, according to preliminary fall 2026 data released by the New Mexico Higher Education Department.
A total of 115,231 students are enrolled at public higher education institutions across the state this fall, representing a 1.2% increase from 2025. Since 2021, statewide enrollment has grown by nearly 15%, adding more than 14,000 students to New Mexico’s higher education system.
State officials say the continued growth coincides with the implementation of the Opportunity Scholarship, which provides tuition assistance for eligible New Mexicans pursuing certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees.
The strongest year-over-year growth was reported among the state’s research universities, where enrollment increased by 2.6%. Branch community colleges also saw gains, with enrollment rising 1.6% compared to last year.
Several campuses reported significant increases this fall, including:
- Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso, up 15.5%
- UNM-Gallup, up 15.1%
- Northern New Mexico College, up 5.1%
- UNM-Taos, up 4.9%
Higher education leaders say the growth reflects continued demand for workforce-focused programs, expanded student support services, and efforts to make college more affordable and accessible throughout the state.
New Mexico’s enrollment gains stand out at a time when many states continue to face challenges with college participation and declining student populations.
