University of New Mexico-Main Campus campus
University of New Mexico-Main Campus logo

University of New Mexico-Main Campus

Albuquerque, NM · Public · 17,244 students

A campus nestled on a plateau beneath the Sandia Mountains.

Acceptance rate

95.2%

SAT (mid 50%)

890–1170

Avg net price

$15,489

after aid

Next deadline

Jun 1

RD

Testing

Optional

2026 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the University of New Mexico-Main Campus admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

University of New Mexico-Main Campus admitted 95.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 890–1170 on the SAT and 19–26 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what University of New Mexico-Main Campus actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Explore, Decide, Discover Your Path

Not sure about a major? You’re not alone... Start taking foundational courses, and start exploring right away.

The curriculum encourages students to begin with foundational courses while exploring various fields before committing to a major.

  • 220+ Degree and Certificate Programs90+ baccalaureate, 80+ masters, 49 doctoral, 27 certificate
  • Fourteen Colleges and SchoolsArts & Sciences, Education & Human Sciences, Fine Arts, Nursing, Pharmacy, Popul

Verified from unm.edu and admissions.unm.edu and admissions.unm.edu and unm.edu and unm.edu and news.unm.edu and unmevents.unm.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineJune 1, 2027 (RD)
  • Regular decisionJune 1, 2027
  • TestingOptional (2026 cycle)

Verified from unm.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Why are you interested in joining the Honors College? How do you think Honors will contribute to your experience at UNM?

    Up to 250 words

  • 50 years from now, your picture is hanging somewhere, and someone is looking at it. Where is it, what is it doing there, and who is looking at it?

    Up to 250 words

  • Community is an important value in the Honors College. Tell us about a community you have contributed to and why it is important to you.

    Up to 250 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from unm.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $21,259. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $15,489.

Information is available to help students finance their education.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $44,792.

Verified from unm.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations13% of degrees
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing13% of degrees
  • Psychology, General11% of degrees
  • Biology, General6% of degrees
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities5% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods3% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Live the LOBO Life, where art is everywhere, shaping identity and stirring minds.”

Albuquerque offers a cosmopolitan yet soulful atmosphere, situated on an expansive mesa bisected by historic Route 66 and the Rio Grande, with the monumental Sandia Mountains providing a stunning back

Outdoor-centricHistoricUrban-Rural Blend

Quick answers

What do people ask about University of New Mexico-Main Campus?

Is University of New Mexico-Main Campus test-optional?
For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at University of New Mexico-Main Campus is optional.
How hard is it to get into University of New Mexico-Main Campus?
Very hard. University of New Mexico-Main Campus admits 95.2% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 890 to 1170 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the University of New Mexico-Main Campus application deadline?
The next deadline is June 1, 2027 (RD). Regular Decision closes June 1, 2027.
How much does University of New Mexico-Main Campus cost?
The list price is about $21,259. After aid, families pay $15,489 on average.
Is University of New Mexico-Main Campus worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $44,792 ten years after enrolling. 54% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about University of New Mexico-Main Campus.

Spike answers from University of New Mexico-Main Campus’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.