The University of New Mexico

Admissions

The University of New Mexico admits all eligible applicants from New Mexico, other states and foreign countries. Because of the great diversity of the University of New Mexico’s students, special application and admission procedures have been created to meet the needs of the different populations the University of New Mexico serves—recent high school graduates, transfer students, non-degree students, returning and non-traditional students, and international students.

Admission procedures and requirements vary in each of the four categories listed below (any applicant under the age of 16 must be reviewed by a special admissions committee).

  1. Beginning Freshmen (first time in college after high school).
  2. Transfer Students (last attended another institution).
  3. Readmit students (students who stopped attending for three or more sessions).
  4. Non-Degree Students (presently not seeking a degree).

For all categories, the University requires full academic disclosure on the application forms. Any student found guilty of non-disclosure or misrepresentation on an application is subject to disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from the University.

Transcripts and test scores submitted to the University of New Mexico for admission become the property of the University and will not be sent elsewhere or returned to the student.

All applicants must include information regarding conduct history from another Higher Education institution which resulted in prior or pending suspension or expulsion. Applicants associated with the aforementioned disciplinary history shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Use of Social Security Numbers

The Social Security Number (SSN) will not be the student's primary University identification number. It will not appear on the UNM LoboCard (identification card). UNM is required to collect the SSN in order to provide full access to services such as financial aid, to ensure an accurate academic record, and for record-keeping purposes. The University will protect the confidentiality of the SSN as required by law. If students are unable to provide a Social Security Number, the University will assign an alternative number. This will not impact the admission decision.

UNM Testing Center

The UNM Testing Center provides students, faculty, staff and community members with information and access to standardized testing, and also administers national, state, and local standardized examinations. The UNM Testing Center may be reached by phone at (505) 277-5346 or by email at testctr@unm.edu.

Beginning Freshmen

How to Apply

1.  Complete and return an application for admission and a non-refundable application fee to the Office of Admissions. An online application may also be submitted.

2.  Applicants should request an official high school transcript be sent directly to the Office of Admissions. If the applicant has not yet graduated from high school, the transcripts should include all courses completed, as well as those in progress. UNM’s admission process is "Test Optional" - ACT or SAT scores are not required but can be considered if submitted.

3.  In most cases, admissibility can be based upon a sixth-semester partial transcript, subject only to graduation from high school. Following graduation, applicants must submit a final transcript verifying high school graduation. If the applicant does not graduate or does not submit the final transcript prior to the specified date, the University will cancel their enrollment for any pre-registered classes.

When to Apply

Students are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. For priority consideration, apply by the following dates: Fall Semester–May 1; Spring Semester–November 15; Summer Session–June 1. Students are accepted for admission to most undergraduate colleges of the University for the fall semester and spring semester and the summer session. If a student does not register for the semester requested on his/her application, and wishes to postpone enrollment to a subsequent semester, he/she must notify the Office of Admissions. Applications and application fees are applicable for four consecutive sessions only. If the student does not take advantage of admission and enroll within that period, a new application and application fee are required. A number of colleges and specialized programs with limited enrollments have different deadlines and requirements. Applicants for these programs should see the appropriate sections of this Catalog for specific deadlines and requirements.

College Entrance Examinations

UNM does not require standardized test scores for admission as a freshman, although scores may be required for some scholarships. If an applicant intends to provide scores, the University recommends that the ACT or SAT be taken on a summer testing date following the junior year in high school and have the testing provider send scores to the University directly. UNM’s ACT code is 2650 and SAT code is 4845.

Admission Requirements for Fall 2021

(subject to change)

Freshmen applicants may be offered admission by meeting one of the following criteria:

Criterion I: Completion of the following 16 specific high school college preparatory units (two semesters of class work equals one year-long unit) or completion of curricular graduation requirements in the applicant’s home state, with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

  • Four units of English with at least one unit earned in the 11th or 12th grade in composition;*
  • Three units of social science (one of which must be U.S. History);
  • Four units of mathematics from the following list: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, or higher mathematics;
  • Three units of natural science (two of which must be a laboratory science in Biology, Chemistry or Physics); and
  • Two units of a single language other than English.**

* To meet the composition requirement, any English course taken during the junior or senior year of high school in which 50% or more of the curriculum emphasized correct and clear composition will be accepted. Speech courses will not satisfy the composition requirement; however, up to two semesters of speech will be accepted in the remaining requisite English courses. While considered good augmentation to classic, liberal arts English, courses such as drama, journalism and yearbook will not be counted toward the four unit English requirement.

** Exemption from the freshmen admission requirement for two years of a language other than English will be approved under these conditions:

Applicants who speak a language other than English that is offered by the University of New Mexico will have the opportunity to test out on the basis of performance on a native speakers examination administered on campus by the University of New Mexico language department. This examination will be available on an ongoing basis during early registration periods to accommodate the University’s continuous admission policy.

Applicants who speak a language other than English will be eligible for exemption on the basis of certification of fluency in their native languages by an appropriate school or tribal official. Students must request consideration on the basis of testing or exemption by arranging to have certification of proficiency sent directly to the Office of Admissions.

Criterion II: A formula based on a composite ACT or a combined score using SAT Critical Reading/Verbal and Mathematics sub-scores in combination with a high school grade point average. In general, the higher the standardized test score, the lower the required grade point average.

Criterion III: (A limited “Special Admissions” category) Students who do not qualify for admission under Criterion I or II may request “special consideration” through an appeal. A combination of quantitative and subjective factors is used in making these admissions decisions.

Other Admission Opportunities

Home-School or Non-Accredited Schools

The University provides three options for admission for those students (minimum age 16) who have been home-schooled or attended non-accredited high schools. All applicants must submit official ACT or SAT scores.

Option I: Minimum 2.5 high school cumulative grade point average (on a 4.00 scale), as calculated by the Admissions Office, in previous academic high school work, plus completion of the 16 specific high school college preparatory units with a minimum 2.5 GPA (see Criterion I under beginning Freshman Admission Requirements).

Option II: Completion of the General Educational Development (GED) Test or New Mexico HiSET examination (see the "Admission by Examination" section of this page).

Option III: Submission of three SAT II subject tests, including one in English, one in Mathematics and the third in either Social Studies, Natural Science or Foreign Language. A scale, similar to the one used for the GED, will be incorporated using combined percentile rank of the three SAT II scores and ACT or SAT composite scores.

Admission by Examination

Applicants (minimum age 16) who have not graduated from high school may be considered for admission on the basis of the high school-level General Educational Development (GED) tests or the HiSET tests. Scores below are for applicants providing results from the GED 2002 or 2014 versions of the examination. Applicants providing results from the HiSET examination must earn a minimum total score of at least 45, and at least a score of 8 on each sub-test to be considered for admission. Students must also present ACT or SAT scores and must meet the following formula for admission.

GED 2002 Score  GED 2014 Score  Required ACT Comp Required SAT Comp
570 or higher 173 or higher 18-20 960-1050
500-569 165-172 21-24 1060-1190
450-499 157-164 25-28 1200-1320
400-449 145-156 29 or higher 1330 or higher


Early Admission Option

The University of New Mexico will admit, on a full-time basis, a limited number of highly qualified applicants after completion of their junior year of high school. To be considered for early admission, the student must: 1) provide proof of parental consent; 2) have an exceptional record on a minimum of 16 units in a strong college preparatory program in an accredited high school; 3) have the unqualified recommendation of the principal or headmaster; and 4) have a score on the ACT or SAT satisfactory to the University. In most cases a personal interview with the Director of Admissions is required before a decision is made.

Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment Option

Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment is designed to provide high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to earn college credit while still enrolled in high school by taking University courses normally not offered at the high school.

Admission to Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment is in Non-Degree status and is not considered “Early Admission” to the University. Students desiring to continue in degree status after high school graduation must apply for admission and fulfill freshman admission requirements.

Admission Requirements
All Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment students must consult with the Dual Credit Coodinator for admission and registration matters.

These are the minimum requirements for admission to the Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment Program. Individual high schools may require higher qualifications before certifying and recommending a student. Meeting the criteria listed below does not guarantee admission. In all cases, the final admission determination will be made by the Director of Advising Strategies and the Director of Admissions.

1.  The student must be a high school junior or senior.
2.  The student must have the course-specific certification and unconditional recommendation of the high school prior to participation.
3.  The high school and student must complete an application for admission and provide an official high school transcript.
4.  Minimum quantitative requirement (one or more of the requirements listed below):
     •  Cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or better on a 4.00 scale for 9th, 10th, and 11th grades in subjects counted toward graduation; or
     •  Class rank in top 25%, and a minimum grade point average of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale; or
     •  An ACT composite score of 23 or an SAT total score of 1130 and a minimum grade point average of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale.
5.  A student planning to enroll in English 1110 must have a minimum score of 19 on the English portion of the ACT or 500 on the verbal portion of the SAT.
6.  A student planning to enroll in any mathematics course numbered above MATH 1215 must have a minimum score of 22 on the Mathematics portion of the ACT or 540 on the quantitative portion of the SAT.

Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment participants are not obligated in any way to continue enrollment at UNM after high school graduation. Credits earned in Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment may be applied to a UNM undergraduate degree only after a student applies and is admitted to degree status (Note: Some collegiate institutions do not accept college credits earned while a student was enrolled in high school). The quality of work done in all college courses will be taken into consideration by collegiate institutions to which application is made after high school graduation. Students are expected to earn a minimum 2.00 (“C”) cumulative grade point average in all University courses. Students are required to report Dual Credit/Concurrent Enrollment participation on applications to all collegiate institutions.

Students participating in the New Mexico State Dual Credit Program must submit the following forms to the Dual Credit Coordinator:

1.  University of New Mexico Admission Application.
2.  A signed State Dual Credit Request Form stating the course(s) that the student plans to take. The form must be signed by a guidance counselor or by a principal and parent.
3.  Proxy Authorization Form.
4.  High School Transcript.

Students must consult with the Dual Credit Coodinator before an admission decision will be made on the dual credit application.

For more information on UNM’s Dual Credit and Concurrent Enrollment programs, contact the Dual Credit Coordinator.

Associate Degree Programs

Although associate degree programs may have special admission requirements, applicants for these programs must first meet the general admission requirements for a bachelor’s degree program. Associate degree students also are subject to the same requirements regarding initial course placement and removal of deficiencies as baccalaureate degree students (see sections on individual associate degree programs and Admission Requirements).

The University of New Mexico Branch Campus Students

The University of New Mexico Branch Campus degree programs are not held to the Albuquerque Campus admission requirements; rather, current branch students wishing to transfer to the Albuquerque Campus must submit the Albuquerque Campus Transition Form with all necessary credentials and must meet the Albuquerque Campus admission requirements. Students that have attended a branch campus, but have not registered within the past three semesters, need to submit a new application for admission and all necessary credentials and meet the Albuquerque Campus admission requirements.

Transfer Students

How to Apply

1.  Complete and return an application for admission and a non-refundable application fee to the Office of Admissions. Students may also apply online.

2.  Request that each college attended sends an official transcript directly to the Office of Admissions. A summary on one transcript of work at several colleges is not sufficient. If a student is applying for the next academic session at the University of New Mexico while still enrolled at another institution, the official transcript must include a listing of courses in progress, as well as all completed work. (see Note below).

3.  Students transferring to the University of New Mexico with fewer than 24 semester hours of acceptable college work are considered a transfer freshman and must submit both college transcripts and complete official high school transcripts or official GED/HiSET scores.

Applications will not be processed until all the required items are on file with the Office of Admissions.

To allow students at other institutions to make definite plans for transfer, a determination of admission status may be made before courses in progress are completed, subject only to receipt of the final transcript. Students permitted to register prior to receipt of their final transcripts may be subject to enrollment cancellation if their transcripts do not reach the Office of Admissions within three weeks after the beginning of classes.

NOTE: Applicants must indicate on the application all previous college attendance. Applicants may not ignore any college attendance, even though they may prefer to repeat all courses. Students found guilty of nondisclosure or misrepresentation in filling out admission application forms, or who find after admission or enrollment that for academic or other reasons they are ineligible to return to their last institution but fail to report this immediately to the Office of Admissions, are subject to disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from the University.

When to Apply

Students are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. For priority consideration apply by the following dates: Fall Semester—June 15; Spring Semester—November 15; Summer Session—May 1. Students are accepted for admission to most undergraduate colleges of the University for the fall, spring and summer sessions. If a student does not register for the session requested on his/her application and wishes to postpone enrollment to a subsequent semester, he/she must notify the Office of Admissions. Applications are applicable for four consecutive sessions only. If the student does not take advantage of admission and enroll within that period, a new application and fee are required. A number of colleges and specialized programs with limited enrollment have different deadlines. Applicants for such programs should see the appropriate sections of this Catalog for specific deadlines and requirements.

Admission Requirements

The minimum requirement for admission as a transfer student to the University of New Mexico is a grade point average of “C” (2.00) in all transferable college work attempted. However, most degree granting colleges at the University require a higher grade point average for the acceptance of transfer students (see the appropriate sections of this Catalog for specific requirements).

The University of New Mexico operates on a semester credit calendar. Therefore, classes from quarter system institutions will be recalculated to semester hours (one quarter hour equals .666 semester hour).

Applicants with fewer than 24 acceptable transferable hours are considered transfer freshmen and must therefore submit high school credentials and also meet freshmen admission requirements (see Beginning Freshmen above).

Previous Suspension

A student under academic suspension from another college or university may not enter the University of New Mexico during the term of suspension. In cases of unspecified suspension periods, the University of New Mexico’s suspension term will apply. Upon termination of the suspension, the student is eligible to request special consideration for admission to the University of New Mexico.

In general, students under disciplinary suspension are not admitted to the University of New Mexico. However, because the reasons for disciplinary suspension vary among institutions, a student may be suspended from one school for infractions that would not be actionable at another. Therefore, the University of New Mexico reviews such cases individually and, when justified, makes exceptions and allows the student to be considered for admission.

Transfer of Credits

The University of New Mexico evaluates without prejudice courses from post-secondary institutions that are regionally accredited or are candidates for regional accreditation. Coursework completed with a minimum grade of “C-,” provided the classes are similar or equivalent to courses offered at the University, may be accepted as transfer credit (transferable courses with grades of “D” from New Mexico state institutions are accepted).

The University of New Mexico does not accept technical/vocational, remedial, personal development or dogmatic religion courses. Credit is not awarded for work or life experience, cooperative education or for courses from out-of-state in which the grade received was lower than “C-” except by petition to the Registrar with subsequent review by the Faculty Senate Admissions and Registration Committee.

Transferable credits from an accredited junior college will be accepted up to a maximum determined by the University of New Mexico college in which the student enrolls.

Grades earned in courses taken at other institutions are not included in calculation of the University of New Mexico grade point average. This grade point average will reflect only classes taken at the University of New Mexico.

Transfer Student Advisement

The Office of Advising Strategies is responsible for establishing and administering policies and procedures related to transfer student advisement. Once transfer students have been admitted to UNM, they should schedule an appointment with their assigned advisor through LoboAchieve. Prospective transfer students are able to locate their appropriate advisor by visiting the UNM Advisement Web site. Advisors are available to assist transfer students with navigating their way through UNM, answering questions or concerns regarding course equivalencies, and helping students interpret the transfer course evaluations through general academic advisement to ensure a seamless transition into UNM. For more information regarding transfer advisement, please visit the UNM Advisement Web site.

Transfer Among New Mexico Higher Education Institutions

To facilitate transfer of students and course credits among New Mexico’s colleges and universities, the state’s public institutions of higher education are required to accept any transfer courses taken within approved modules of lower-division coursework and apply them toward degree requirements. Several transfer guides have been developed through collaboration of New Mexico’s public post-secondary institutions, consistent with requirements of state law (21-1B, NMSA 1978). Students enrolling for first-year or second-year study at a New Mexico institution and wishing to prepare for possible transfer into a degree program at another institution are advised to consult with a UNM academic advisor during their freshman and sophomore years.

Student Responsibility

Planning for effective transfer with maximum efficiency is ultimately the student’s responsibility. Responsible transfer planning includes early and regular consultation with the intended degree-granting institution to assure that all pre-transfer coursework will meet the requirements of the desired degree.

Transferring Courses to Fulfill the New Mexico General Education Curriculum

During the 2005 New Mexico Legislative session, Senate Bill 161, consistent with requirements of state law (Chapter 224 of the Laws of New Mexico, 1995, as amended) was signed into law to further enhance and facilitate the articulation of general education courses among New Mexico’s colleges and universities. In accordance with policies established by the New Mexico Higher Education Department, designated general education core courses successfully completed at any regionally accredited public institution of higher education in New Mexico are guaranteed to transfer to any New Mexico public institution. Students who have decided on a major and/or an institution at which to complete their studies should consult with an academic advisor at that particular institution to determine the most appropriate course selections. Students enrolling for the first-year study at a New Mexico college or university and considering possible transfer into a certificate and/or degree program at another institution are encouraged to take the courses approved for transfer during their freshman and sophomore years of study.

The list of approved courses guaranteed to transfer and meet general education requirements at any New Mexico college or university can be found on the New Mexico Higher Education Department Web site.

The course prefix and number that appear in parenthesis next to many of the institutions’ internal course prefixes and numbers is the New Mexico Common Course Number. This is a four-alpha/four-numeric set of uniform course designations that serve as a single reference point for courses taught throughout the state that share substantially equivalent content. Courses bearing this designation are part of a statewide equivalency table that cross-references the institutional course and number with the universal “common course number” creating an easy one-to-one match.

Students may find the New Mexico Common Course Number listed in crosswalks, degree outlines, transfer guides, and in course descriptions in college catalogs and Web sites. Simply put, the common course number connects equivalent courses at multiple institutions ensuring students that the course will transfer to the receiving institution, and meet degree requirements as if it were taken on that campus.

The New Mexico Common Course Number has an alpha prefix that identifies readily to the subject area. The four digits in the number represent the specific course in that subject area with each digit having significance as demonstrated below:

NM Common Course Number

BIOL 1 11 4
Four Character Academic Prefix Course Level: Freshman = 1, Sophomore = 2 Course Sequence Credit Hours: 1,2,3 or 4

 

Lower-Division 64-hour Transfer Modules

Students who have selected a field of study but have not yet selected the college or university where they wish to earn their baccalaureate degree are advised to take courses during their freshman and sophomore years outlined in one of the Lower-Division 64-hour Transfer Modules. For students enrolled at any public institution in New Mexico, these courses are guaranteed to transfer to any New Mexico university and apply toward bachelor’s degree program requirements. Students should consult advisors at their current institutions regarding which specific classes fit these categories. Lower-division transfer modules presently exist for:

Copies of these Transfer Modules may be obtained from the University of New Mexico Admissions Office.

  • Business (see Management)
  • Teacher Education–Early Childhood Education (See Education)

Modules for additional areas of study are being developed.

  • Pre-Engineering
  • Teacher Education
  • Biological Sciences
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences
  • Physical Sciences

Inter-Institutional Transfer Guides and Catalogs

Students who have selected a field of study and/or the institution where they wish to graduate are advised to consult the transfer guide or catalog for that institution for more current and detailed advice to guide their course selection. An online tool to determine institutional transfer equivalencies, along with a number of published transfer guides are available on the University of New Mexico Admissions Office Web site.

Complaint Procedure for Transfer Students

All New Mexico public post-secondary institutions are required to establish policies and practices for receiving and resolving complaints from students or from other complainants regarding the transfer of coursework from other public institutions in the state. A copy of the University of New Mexico’s complaint policy may be obtained from the Registrar's Office or from the New Mexico Higher Education Department, 2048 Galisteo, Santa Fe, NM 87505-2100, (505) 476-8400.

Evaluation of Credit

Transfer courses are evaluated in the Registrar's Office to determine acceptable transfer credit on a course-by-course basis for college-level credit earned at institutions who are fully accredited by any of the six U.S. regional associations. Lower-level course equivalencies are determined by the Registrar's Office based on course content, as described in the catalogs of those institutions and in consultation with appropriate academic units at UNM. Upper-level course equivalencies are determined by the appropriate academic units. The student must contact an academic advisor in the college of their desired major in order to determine how the transferred courses will be applied to a degree program.

Alternative Credit Options

The University of New Mexico grants college credit for certain outside training, courses and examinations. In all cases, students must be enrolled in undergraduate degree status. The guidelines for each of these programs are as follows:

Technical Credit

Under special circumstances, students may receive credit for technical courses that are not normally transferable to the University of New Mexico. Students who have earned technical credit that they believe may be applicable to their specific degree programs can request a review of that credit by the department chairperson or program director. An interview or demonstration of competence, or both, may be required before a decision regarding credit is made. Acceptance of technical credit is binding only to the specific department or program recommending the credit.

Training Credit

Credit for non-collegiate training programs is granted based on recommendations of the American Council of Education’s “National Guide to Educational Credit for Training Programs” and institutional policies. Official records must be supplied to the University of New Mexico Office of Admissions by the appropriate source.

Military Credit

Credit for military service is granted based on recommendations of the American Council of Education’s “Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Service” and institutional policies. No credit is granted for Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).

College Board Advanced Placement Program

Advanced Placement Program

Students who took advanced placement courses in high school and earned a score of three or higher on the exam may be eligible for college credit. Score reports must be sent from the College Board directly to the University of New Mexico's Office of Admissions. See the Admissions Office Web site for a table listing available credit for scores earned on the Advanced Placement Exams.

College-Level Examination Program

The University participates in the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) administered by the College Board. The University of New Mexico grants credit to newly admitted and regularly enrolled (in undergraduate degree status) students who achieve passing scores on the CLEP exams listed below, as approved by the appropriate University of New Mexico academic departments. For all of these CLEP Examinations, the total semester hours to be accepted towards a student’s degree is at the discretion of the pertinent degree-granting college. Therefore, students should contact their college advisors for specific information. No credit is granted for Subject Exams not listed. Students should be aware the CLEP Examinations are intended for people with clear strengths in an area. IMPORTANT: There is a 6-month waiting period before repeating a test.

CLEP Computer-Based Testing (CBT)

As of July 2001, the College Board is introducing Computer-Based Testing for the CLEP and has adjusted the scoring. The scores that follow will list the minimums for both the paper (taken prior to July 2001) and CBT testing formats.

CLEP General Examinations

The University grants credit for qualifying scores on the CLEP General Exams provided the student takes the exam before earning 26 semester hours of acceptable college credit. See the Admissions Office Web site for a table listing credit available for certain scores earned on CLEP exams.

CLEP Subject and General Examinations

Students wishing to take one or more CLEP examinations may obtain registration forms at the University of New Mexico Testing Center.

In some cases, the University of New Mexico requires original transcripts of test results sent from CLEP, Box 1821, Princeton, NJ 08543. Non-specific credit for these examinations appearing on transcripts from other colleges will not suffice.

International Baccalaureate

The University of New Mexico grants credit based for qualifying scores on International Baccalaureate (IB) exams. See the Admissions Office Web site for a table listing credit available for scores earned on IB exams.

Concurrent College Enrollments

Prior to enrolling concurrently in residence or by extension or correspondence in another collegiate institution, students should verify with the Office of Admissions and their college advisors to ensure acceptance of the transfer credits.

Readmit Students

How to Apply

A University of New Mexico degree-seeking student who stops attending for three or more sessions, including summer, must file an application for readmission, or may also apply online.

1.  Complete and return an application and a non-refundable application fee for readmission.

2.  If an applicant has attended another institution while away from the University of New Mexico or has taken college-level correspondence or extension courses, request that each college attended send an official transcript directly to the Office of Admissions. A summary on one transcript of work at several colleges is not sufficient. If applying for the next academic semester at the University of New Mexico while still enrolled at another institution, the official transcript must include a listing of courses in progress, as well as all completed work. Applications will not be processed until all the required items are on file with the Office of Admissions.

3.  Students eligible for readmission with fewer than 24 semester hours or undecided about their major will ordinarily enroll in University College. Students with more than 24 semester hours, with an area of interest or a definite major in mind should refer to the appropriate college or program section of this Catalog.

4.  Students who have been suspended or dismissed as the result of disciplinary problems shall not be readmitted to the University without a required interview with the Dean of Students Office. The University reserves the right to refuse any student readmission on the basis of his or her student history, either academic or disciplinary.

Academic Renewal Candidates

This category accommodates students returning to baccalaureate education at the University of New Mexico after an absence of five or more years, who have not yet completed a Bachelor’s degree. Academic Renewal candidates will be governed by the Academic Renewal Policy (see "Academic Renewal Policy" in the Student Services Information section of this Catalog for details). Students may stay in this category until the requirements are completed and academic renewal is processed. Students may take a maximum of 36 hours in this category. Students must meet with their academic advisor prior to registration.

When to Apply

Students are strongly encouraged to reapply as early as possible. Deadlines for readmission vary according to previous academic status or the college a student wishes to enter. Contact the Office of Admissions for specific dates. If a student does not register for the session requested on his/her application and wishes to postpone enrollment to a subsequent semester, he/she must notify the Office of Admissions. Applications are valid for four consecutive sessions only. If the student does not take advantage of admission and enroll within that period, a new application and fee are required.

Undergraduate Students Admission Status

New Students

Students who have completed fewer than 24 semester hours of acceptable college credit are required to enroll in this category (there are exceptions in the case of some students and some colleges, see below). Admissible students with more than 24 but fewer than 64 semester hours of acceptable credit may be required to enroll in this category until they meet the special requirements for transfer to one of the University of New Mexico’s degree-granting colleges (see appropriate sections of this Catalog for these requirements).

This category is intended to serve only freshmen and sophomore students for the initial semesters of their college careers. Courses numbered 101 and above are open to freshmen and courses numbered in the 200’s are normally available only for sophomores. Permission to take 300- and 400-level courses is granted only in exceptional cases, such as a student coming to the University with a knowledge of his or her native language that exceeds the work offered in the first two years of study in that language.

Students who have attempted 72 or more semester hours may not be admitted as new students. They must be admitted to a degree-granting college or to one of the following categories listed below, as appropriate. Students enrolled at the University of New Mexico who have earned more than 64 semester hours or attempted more than 72 semester hours may not remain in this category. They are strongly encouraged to transfer to a degree-granting college. If they do not yet meet the entrance requirements for a degree-granting college, they may apply to enter Category 2.

  • Earned hours are defined here as all semester hours of college-level credit recognized by the University of New Mexico, whether earned at the University of New Mexico or at any other institution of higher learning and including hours such as pass/fail (CR/NC) courses, CLEP, AP and accepted military credits.
  • Attempted hours include all hours of credit attempted at this or any other institution of higher learning, including incompletes, repetitions and introductory studies courses as well as all “earned hours.”

Some degree granting colleges may admit selected students who meet their eligibility criteria into “pre-major” status in the college (see appropriate sections of this Catalog).

Pre-Major and Major Status

All students seeking a degree from UNM will be admitted to their degree-seeking college in either a pre-major or major status. Students who must satisfy prerequisites or meet department requirements will be admitted to pre-major status. Students with all requisites and requirements met will be admitted to major status. Please refer to appropriate College/School sections of this Catalog to find admission requirements for particular degree programs or majors.

Non-Degree Credit Program

The Non-Degree credit program allows students to earn academic credit without being admitted into a degree granting unit. This program accommodates non-traditional students who wish to begin taking academic courses at the University of New Mexico without taking college entrance exams; those who missed the degree status deadline; and those who wish to take academic courses to prepare for graduate studies, career changes, or for professional and/or personal development. Non-Degree status is recommended for visiting students from other institutions.

How to Apply

Apply online, or complete and return a non-degree admission application and a non-refundable application fee to:

Office of Admissions
PO Box 4895
Albuquerque, NM 87196-4895

When to Apply

Students are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible. The application deadlines are: Fall semester - August 15; Spring semester - January 10; Summer session - June 1. If the applicant does not register for the session requested on the application and wishes to postpone enrollment to a subsequent semester, the Office of Admissions must be notified. Applications are applicable for four consecutive sessions only. If the applicant does not take advantage of admission by enrolling within that period, a new application and fee are required.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must be 21 years of age or older. If the applicant is under 21:

  • The high school graduating class must have been out of school for at least one full year;
    –or–
  • If the applicant earned the diploma by the GED exam, the graduating class must have been out of high school at least one year.

NOTES:

  • Students in Non-Degree status are not eligible to receive financial aid. Contact the Student Financial Aid Office at (505) 277-8900 for details.
  • Veterans planning to attend the University under one of the public laws governing veterans’ educational benefits and who are seeking admission to Non-Degree are required to have special approval from the Veterans Affairs Office (505) 277-3514.

The following students are not eligible for Non-Degree status:

  • A student who is under disciplinary or academic suspension from the University of New Mexico or any other collegiate institution.
  • A student who has exhausted his or her eligibility in University College and is not academically eligible to enter a degree-granting college at the University of New Mexico.
  • A student who has not completed a degree and left the University of New Mexico with a deficit grade point average, in a probationary or suspended status, or in poor academic standing.
  • A student from another country who is in the United States on a student visa.
  • A student who has been refused admission to degree status.
  • A student planning to receive student financial aid.

Applicants for Non-Degree status are required to certify that they are not under suspension from any college or university. Students found guilty of nondisclosure or misrepresentation in filling out the admission application form, or who after admission or enrollment at the University of New Mexico are found to be ineligible for academic or other reasons to return to the last institution attended and fail to report this immediately to the Office of Admissions, will be subject to disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from the University.

Facts about Non-Degree Status

  • Non-refundable application fee is required.
  • No transcripts of previous high school or college work are required for admission.
    NOTE: A transcript may be required to determine fulfillment of prerequisite coursework.
  • There is a 30 credit hour limit in Non-Degree status if the applicant does not have a baccalaureate degree. There is no limit for students with a baccalaureate degree.
  • Credits earned in Non-Degree are recorded on a University of New Mexico permanent record. Credits may be applied to an undergraduate plan of study, if the courses meet specific degree requirements.
  • Applicants planning to take education courses must contact the College of Education and Human Sciences at (505) 277-3190 concerning requirements.
  • Non-degree students applying for undergraduate degree status must follow admission procedures and provide all items required of transfer students (see Transferring Students).

Requirements for International Non-Degree Applicants

Contact the Global Education Office for additional information:

Phone: (505) 277-4032
FAX: (505) 277-1867
email: goglobal@unm.edu

Academic Standards

Students in Non-Degree status are subject to all University regulations governing registration, attendance, academic standing and satisfactory completion of prerequisite courses. The Albuquerque Campus governs academic standing and maintains college records for all Non-Degree students, including those at branch campuses and Extended University sites.

Non-Degree Status Limitations

Students without a baccalaureate degree may earn no more than 30 credit hours at UNM in non-degree status. Undergraduate colleges at the University will not accept in a degree program more than 30 UNM hours while the student is in non-degree status nor, is a college obligated to accept any hours earned in non-degree status that do not fulfill college degree requirements. If degree status is not attained prior to earning 30 semester hours, the student will be allowed to register in courses in non-degree status as an auditor only, receiving no credit.

The senior residence requirement cannot be met by enrolling in non-degree status. This can be accomplished only by enrolling in a degree-granting college of the University.

A non-degree student who does not have a baccalaureate or equivalent degree may not enroll in 500– and 600-level courses. Non-degree students normally may enroll only in undergraduate credit offerings. In some cases graduate credit coursework earned while in non-degree may apply to a graduate degree. Contact the specific department for details.

Non-Degree Advisement Office

Non-Degree undergraduate and graduate advisement is part of the Exploratory and Pre-Professional Advisement Center, located in the University Advisement and Enrichment Center, Suite 105.

Phone: (505) 277-2631
FAX: (505) 277-3173
email: epac@unm.edu

The Advisement Center provides the following services for Non-Degree students:

  • Academic Advisement
  • Registration Assistance
  • Referrals to Campus Services

Teacher Licensure

Students with baccalaureate degrees who wish to complete a professional program that leads to eligibility for initial licensure as a teacher must make regular application for graduate admission to the College of Education and Human Sciences. Such application should be initiated and completed as early as possible. The process for admission and selection to such a professional program is competitive.

Teachers who are already licensed may take coursework to add to the completion of some teaching field endorsements while enrolled in non-degree status. Such teachers, however, must seek advisement from the College of Education and Human Sciences Advisement Center. Contacts for information and advisement are listed in the College of Education and Human Sciences section of this Catalog.

Certain professional endorsements (e.g., bilingual education, ESL, special education and educational leadership) require or highly recommend application to graduate study in a degree program.

The College’s Advisement Center and/or an appropriate Department Office should be contacted before enrollment. Appointments can be made at the Advisement Center by calling (505) 277-3190.

Note that changes in licensure programs may occur in order to meet changes in State Standards for licensure. Early contact with the College Advisement Center will allow prospective candidates to plan for such changes in their studies. See Elementary Education (K–8) or Secondary Education (7–12) sections for more information on application and programs.

International Students

The University of New Mexico welcomes applications from international students who have earned distinguished academic records and have demonstrated English proficiency. The University is proud to claim one of the most ethnically diverse student bodies among universities in the United States. UNM's academic programs consistently rank among the top in universities across the United States, and the faculty is distinguished by Fulbright recipients and nationally recognized academicians.

International Undergraduate Admission Requirements

1.  Secondary Education. Completion of the equivalent of an American upper-secondary school education (approximately 12 years of formal education beginning at age six) as well as the appropriate diplomas or satisfactory results on leaving examinations.

2.  Academic Preparation. Strong academic preparation and a U.S.-equivalent cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (for freshman applicants) or 2.0 college/university grade point average on a 4.0 scale (for transfer students).

Limited Special Admission category: A student classified by the University as a Beginning Freshman who does not qualify for the above criteria may appeal for special consideration. A combination of quantitative and subjective factors is used in making these admission choices.

3.  English Proficiency. If English is not the first language of the student or not the official language of the country, the student must submit official results of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - minimum score 6.0; the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - minimum score 520 paper-based, or 68 Internet-based; the Duolingo English Test - minimum score 95; the University of Cambridge Examinations Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) or Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) - minimum score C; or the Pearson Test of English- Academic (PTE) - minimum score 47. Students who are academically admissible, but whose scores are less than the required minimum, may enroll in the intensive English program offered through UNM’s Center for English Language and American Culture (CELAC). Contact CELAC (celac@unm.edu) for additional information.

Prospective undergraduate students who meet one of the exceptions below are exempted from submitting English proficiency exam results:

  • Completion of four years of U.S. high school with a 2.5 cumulative GPA or higher.
  • ACT English score of 19 or higher (test not required for admission).
  • SAT Critical Reading score (pre-March 2016) of 470 or higher; or SAT Evidence-Based Reading/Writing score (post-March 2016) of at least 500 (test not required for admission).
  • One year of full-time study (minimum of 24 credit hours) at a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university with a 3.0 GPA or higher completed within the last two years.
  • Completion of two semesters of freshman English composition (English 1110 and 1120 equivalents) with a GPA of 2.0 or higher at a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university or recognized university in English-speaking Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia or New Zealand.
  • Attendance in the Center for English Language and American Culture (CELAC) program at UNM with successful completion of full-time studies in the Academic Bridge level of English instruction (2.5 GPA or better) and good standing (CELAC International Admission Pathway Program).

4.  Financial Resources. All international applicants are required to submit documentation verifying adequate funding to meet study and living expenses for themselves and any accompanying dependents, if applicable, while in the United States. A minimum amount of approximately $40,157 U.S. dollars is required (based on 2019–2020 rates). Proof of support includes a Certification of Financial Responsibility Form completed for all years of study, and proof of funds available for the first year of study.

5.  Health Insurance. International students who attend the University of New Mexico and any dependents who may accompany them are required to have medical insurance.

When to Apply

Application Deadlines 
Fall Semester June 15
Spring Semester October 1
Summer Session March 1


Applications and all supporting credentials must be submitted by these dates. Only complete applications will be reviewed for admission.

How to Apply

Required Documents

1.  Completed application form: Students should submit an online application for International Undergraduate Admission to the Office of International Admissions. Paper applications are also available upon request.

2.  $50.00 non-refundable application fee: Must be in U.S. currency and paid by credit/debit card, International Postal Money Order, or certified check drawn on a U.S. bank.

3.  Evidence of English language proficiency: Test scores must be sent directly to the University from either IELTS; TOEFL; Duolingo English Test; PTE-Academic; or Cambridge CPE or CAE.

4.  Academic Records: Applicants must submit official grade reports (transcripts or marksheets) and diplomas or leaving certificates from each institution attended to the University of New Mexico. Students must submit either original or officially attested (by the issuing university) copies. Attested copies must contain the original signature(s), stamp(s), or seal(s) of the issuing institution’s designated official. Once submitted, these academic documents become the property of the University of New Mexico and will not be returned to the applicant or forwarded to other schools or agencies. Notarized copies, faxed copies, or plain photocopies of these documents are not acceptable. All documents must be submitted in the original language and be accompanied by an official English translation. Students who have no prior college or university credit must submit evidence of graduation from a recognized secondary school, and must be eligible for admission to a recognized university in their home countries.

Applicants may also submit academic records to any member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. Transcripts evaluated by an official credentialing agency must be submitted with an official report sent directly from the NACES-member agency. There is no need to send UNM the original transcript. However, a photocopy of the original transcript/degree certificate and English translation must be sent to UNM. The University of New Mexico retains the right to accept or deny the transfer of credit to UNM for particular courses or the conversion of the grade point from the indigenous scale as completed by the evaluation agency.

Note: Students who want any information concerning their admission files released to any third party must first submit written notification directly to the International Admissions Office. The release must include the student’s name and UNM identification number.

I-20 Statement: The Immigration Form I-20 is valid up to the first day of class for the semester or summer session to which a student is admitted.

Submit all documents to:

Office of International Admissions
1 University of New Mexico
MSC06 3850
Mesa Vista Hall, Room 2120
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
USA

International Undergraduate Readmitted Students

A University of New Mexico degree-seeking student who stops attending for three consecutive terms must file an application for readmission. Students seeking readmission may also apply online.

If the student has attended another institution since their last attendance at the University, they must also submit new, official transcripts.

In addition, readmitted students must update financial documentation.

International Graduate Admission Requirements

1.  Undergraduate Education Requirement. Graduate applicants must have an earned degree that is equivalent to the U.S. bachelor’s degree from a recognized university as determined by the Office of International Admissions. Some non-U.S. bachelor’s degrees are based on three-year programs that may or may not be equivalent to the U.S. bachelor’s degree. In these cases, the applicant can submit an independent credential evaluation report from a credential evaluation service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. If the credential evaluation report confirms that the applicant does have the equivalent of a US bachelor’s degree, the applicant may petition the Dean of Graduate Studies for consideration of equivalency. The petition must include the support of the graduate unit and College Graduate Committee, along with a complete application packet, an official copy of the credential evaluation report, and an explanation of the suitability of the applicant’s undergraduate preparation. This documentation must be submitted to the International Admissions Office.

If the Dean approves the petition, the graduate unit may proceed with an offer of admission. A student admitted under this policy will be classified as a regular graduate student with the same rights and responsibilities as any other student in graduate status.

2.  Academic Preparation. A minimum grade point average of 3.0 (on a U.S. 4.0 scale) or comparable grade point average in upper-division (junior- and senior-level) coursework and in any graduate coursework already completed.

A satisfactory score on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) as required by the major academic department or college.

Adequate subject preparation for proposed graduate major. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission since some graduate programs have higher standards and may have limited space. Therefore, it is very important that students contact the departments to which they wish to be admitted.

3.  Demonstrated proficiency in English. If English is not the first language of the student nor the official language of the student’s home country, the student must submit official results of either the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - minimum score 6.5; the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - minimum score 550 paper-based, or 79-80 Internet-based; the Duolingo English Test - minimum score 105; the University of Cambridge Examinations Certificate of Proficiency in English (CAPE) or Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) - minimum score C; or the Pearson Test of English- Academic (PTE) - minimum score 53. Individual departments may require higher scores. International students whose native language is not English and are seeking graduate teaching assistantships may also be required to submit acceptable scores on the Test of Spoken English (TSE). Students who are academically admissible, but whose scores are less than the required minimum, may enroll in the intensive English program offered through UNM’s Center for English Language and American Culture (CELAC). Contact CELAC (celac@unm.edu) for additional information.

Prospective graduate students who meet one of the exceptions below are exempted from submitting English proficiency test results:

  • One year of full-time study (minimum of 24 credit hours) at a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university with a 3.0 GPA or higher completed within the last two years.
  • Completion of two semesters of freshman English composition (English 1110 and 1120 equivalents) with a GPA of 2.0 or higher at a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university, or a recognized university in English-speaking Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand.
  • Attendance in the Center for English Language and American Culture (CELAC) program at UNM with successful completion of full-time studies in the Academic Bridge level of English instruction (2.5 GPA or better), good standing, and approval of the academic graduate department to which the student is applying (CELAC International Admission Pathway Program).

4.  Financial Resources. All international applicants are required to submit documentation verifying adequate funding to meet study and living expenses for themselves and any accompanying dependents, if applicable, while in the United States. A minimum amount of approximately $38,089 U.S. dollars is required (based on 2019–2020 rates). Proof of support includes a Certification of Financial Responsibility Form completed for all years of study and proof of funds available for the first year of study.

5.  Health Insurance. International students who attend the University of New Mexico, and any dependents who may accompany them, are required to have medical insurance.

When to Apply

Application Deadlines 
Fall Semester May 1
Spring Semester October 1
Summer Session March 1


Note: Most departments have earlier deadlines. It is important that students consult with individual departments and meet their specific deadline requirements.

Applications and all supporting credentials must be submitted by these dates. Only complete applications will be reviewed for admission.

How to Apply

Required Documents

1.  Completed application form: Students should submit an online application for International Graduate Admission to the Office of International Admissions. Students may also apply online.

2.  $70.00 non-refundable application fee: Must be in U.S. currency and paid by credit/debit card.

3.  Evidence of English language proficiency: Test scores must be sent directly to the University from either IELTS; TOEFL; Duolingo English Test; PTE-Academic; or Cambridge CAPE or CAE.

4.  Academic Records: In order to facilitate the departmental initial review, the University of New Mexico requests that students upload complete, unofficial transcripts and diploma or degree certificates, if earned, from all higher education institutions attended to the graduate application. If the documents are not written in English, an official English translation must also be uploaded. Once formally admitted to the University of New Mexico, official transcript and degree/diploma certificates from all higher education institutions attended must be submitted to the Office of International Admissions before an I-20 or DS-2019 immigration document will be issued. No exceptions will be made to this policy. Once submitted, these academic documents become the property of the University of New Mexico and will not be returned to the application or forwarded to other schools or agencies.

Official grade reports (transcripts) and diplomas or degree certificates must be either the original documents or official attested (by the issuing university) copies. Attested copies must contain the original signature(s), stamp(s), or seal(s) of the issuing institution’s designated official such as the Registrar. Notarized copies, faxed copies, or plain photocopies of these documents are not acceptable. All official documents must be submitted in the original language and be accompanied by an official English translation.

Applicants may also submit academic records to any member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. Transcripts evaluated by an official credentialing agency must be submitted with an official report sent directly from the NACES member agency. There is no need to send UNM the original transcript. However, a photocopy of the original transcript and an official English translation must be sent directly to UNM. The University of New Mexico retains the right to accept or deny the transfer of credit to UNM for particular courses or the conversion of the grade point from the indigenous scale as completed by the evaluation agency.

5.  Financial Documents: Students must submit the University of New Mexico Certification of Financial Responsibility form along with required supporting documentation.

6.  Departmental Requirements: Individual departments may require additional credentials and/or letters of recommendation. Students must contact the department of intended field of study for specific information and submit all required documents to the International Admissions Office and department of interest before the earlier deadline.

Note: Students who want any information concerning their admission files released to any third party must submit written notification directly to the International Admissions Office. The release must include the student’s name and UNM identification number.

I-20 Statement: The Immigration Form I-20 is valid up to the first day of class for the semester or summer session to which a student is admitted.

Submit all documents to:

Office of International Admissions
1 University of New Mexico
MSC06 3850
Mesa Vista Hall, Room 2120
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
USA

International Graduate Readmitted Students

A University of New Mexico graduate student who stops attending for three consecutive terms must file an application for readmission. Students seeking readmission may apply online.

Readmitted students must adhere to University Catalog policies in effect at the time of readmission to graduate status or a subsequent version. If the student was on probationary status when last enrolled, they will return on probation unless the matter was resolved.

To apply for readmission, apply for readmission with a $70 fee directly to the Office of International Admissions prior to the graduate unit’s published deadline. Students seeking readmission are responsible for determining additional specific application materials the graduate unit requires, such as GRE scores, portfolios, or writing samples. If the student has attended another institution since their last attendance at the University, they must also submit new, official transcripts. In addition, readmitted students must update financial documentation.

Admission to Graduate Dual Status Programs

Refer to "Dual Degree Programs - Individual" in the Graduate Program section of this Catalog.

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Office of the Registrar

MSC11 6325
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131

Phone: (505) 277-8900
 Fax: (505) 277-6809