First Time Freshman Admissions Guidelines
The University of New Mexico is committed to providing access to higher education through direct admission to UNM's main campus or by the Gateway pathway
Admissions Checklist
Submit the following to the Admissions Office:
- Completed application form. The application can be completed and submitted either by hard copy or online.
- Official High School transcript(s); or official GED scores.
- Official transcripts from all accredited colleges and university attended (if applicable).
- Official ACT or SAT scores.
- A non-refundable $20 application fee.
- Domestic students with international coursework please follow the instructions in the section titled Submitting Academic Documents.
Traditional applicants are entering freshmen (and transfer applicants with fewer than 24 transferable credits) who are graduates of a regionally accredited high school or a school accredited by the state department of education. The Office of Admissions considers an applicant’s total high school record including grades, curriculum and standardized test scores.
High School Curriculum – Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete a college preparatory curriculum (English, mathematics, social science, physical science and foreign language) of 16 units or more. Please review the recommended curriculum under High School Planning.
Grade Point Average – A weighted academic unit grade point average emphasizing college preparatory courses is an important component of the admission decision. A GPA will be calculated using courses in the 5 core academic subject areas. Consideration is given for courses such as Honors and Pre-Advanced Placement. More weight is given for Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Dual Enrollment courses.
Standardized Test Scores – Applicants must submit an official score from either the ACT or SAT as part of the admission application. Applicants are encouraged to take both tests, no preference is given to either score type. The highest of the available ACT Composite scores, or the highest SAT Total scores (Critical Reading and SAT Mathematics sub-scores), are used for admission purposes.
Applicants are considered for admission using the grade point average and curriculum or GPA and standardized test scores. Applicants who are not offered admission and believe they would be successful at UNM are encouraged to request additional consideration. Typically, a student with a solid college preparatory curriculum and a 2.50 grade point average will be offered admission. The average academic profile of admitted freshmen is a 3.2 GPA, 22 ACT or 1080 SAT (Critical Reading and Mathematics only).
Home-School or Non-Accredited Schools
The University provides options for admission for those applicants (minimum age 16) who have been home-schooled or attended non-accredited high schools. All applicants must submit official ACT or SAT scores. Although not required, applicants who have attended a non-accredited high school or home-school are encouraged to submit GED scores.
Non-Traditional Curriculum Applicants
GED applicants should submit the following:
- Completed application.
- $20 non-refundable application fee.
- Official GED scores.
- Official ACT or SAT scores.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the admissions process or would like information on admission consideration for students who do not meet the above criteria, you may reach the UNM Admissions Office at: 1-800-CALL UNM (1-800-225-5866) Extension 1.
We may also be reached by e-mail at apply@unm.edu
