University of New Mexico-Main Campus
The Vibe Check
The University of New Mexico feels like a vibrant cultural hub where the high desert meets academia, with Pueblo Revival architecture and Sandia Mountains serving as a constant backdrop. There's a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends traditional college spirit with a distinctly Southwestern identity. It feels like a place where you can study hard and then immediately escape to the mountains for a hike.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UNM is a top-tier research university with notable strengths in health professions, engineering, and Latin American studies. The university is a powerhouse for research in fields like archaeology, optics, and language literacy. Small class sizes for a public university allow for accessible teaching, and undergraduates have real opportunities to contribute to faculty research projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Albuquerque
Albuquerque offers a unique student experience defined by 310 days of sunshine annually and easy access to hiking, skiing, and biking in the nearby Sandia Mountains. Students enjoy the historic Old Town plaza, the vibrant brewery scene, and the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta that paints the sky with hundreds of hot air balloons. The city's rich cultural fusion is reflected in the local food, art, and music scenes.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,792):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UNM has a dedicated LoboGuardian safety app and a robust campus shuttle system, though students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Albuquerque has higher crime rates than the national average, but the campus itself is generally safe with active police presence.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional value and affordability for in-state students
- ✓ Strong research opportunities in unique fields like optics and Southwest studies
- ✓ Cultural immersion in a diverse, Southwestern urban environment
- ✓ Access to year-round outdoor recreation in the Sandia Mountains
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are lower than national averages
- ✗ Campus and surrounding city can have safety concerns that require vigilance
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is high relative to the median earnings
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UNM is known for its unique Pueblo Revival architecture and its status as a Carnegie R1 research university. It is highly regarded for programs in Latin American studies, law, architecture, and fine arts. The university is also a leader in optics research and offers a unique 'New Mexico & the Southwest' general education requirement that grounds students in local history and culture.
No, UNM has an acceptance rate of 95.45%, making it an accessible option for most applicants. The average SAT score is 1047, and the average ACT score is 21. While admission is open to those meeting minimum standards, competitive applicants for scholarships typically have higher GPAs and test scores.
Campus life at UNM is defined by a blend of school spirit and Southwestern culture, with over 300 student organizations and active Greek life. Students enjoy the sunny weather by spending time on the Johnson Center lawn or exploring the nearby mountains. The campus is diverse, with a significant Hispanic student population, creating a vibrant and inclusive community.
For New Mexico residents, UNM is an outstanding value, offering a flagship education at a community college price point. The ROI is strong for in-state students, particularly those majoring in high-demand fields like engineering and health professions. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is less clear and depends heavily on securing scholarships and choosing a major with high earning potential.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 17,689
- In-State Tuition $8,115
- Out-of-State $26,450
- Zip Code 87131
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of just over $8,000, UNM offers exceptional value for New Mexico residents, making it one of the most affordable flagship universities in the country. For out-of-state students, the cost is significantly higher, but the 10-year median earnings of $44,792 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in engineering and health professions. The university also supports a high percentage of students with Pell Grants, indicating robust financial aid for those with need.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.