Overview
New Mexico State University-Main Campus is a less selective public four-year institution in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The school accepts 78.1% of applicants and enrolls 11,561 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 78.1%
- Average SAT
- 1,020
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 900–1,140
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 20
- Total Enrollment
- 11,561
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
New Mexico State University accepts most applicants, making the application process straightforward. You can apply online through the university's website or the Common Application, with priority deadlines of December 1 for fall semester and October 1 for spring semester. You'll need to submit your high school transcripts, though test scores are optional for most programs.
Engineering and nursing programs maintain more competitive admission standards despite the university's general accessibility. The College of Engineering requires higher academic credentials, and nursing has limited spots available each year. If you're interested in these fields, submit your application early and ensure your transcripts reflect strong performance in relevant coursework.
Housing fills up quickly, so apply for residence halls as soon as you're admitted. The university requires all first-year students under 20 who live more than 50 miles away to live on campus unless they live with family. You'll need to attend an orientation session before your first semester, which covers course registration, campus resources, and degree planning.
The Las Cruces campus sits in the Chihuahuan Desert, creating a unique environment with hot summers and mild winters. The university operates on a semester system and offers extensive online course options alongside traditional in-person classes. Financial aid processing begins in March, so complete your FAFSA early to maximize your aid package.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $6,747/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $8,147
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $25,271
- Students Receiving Aid
- 40%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 52.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $39,067/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for New Mexico State University-Main Campus?
New Mexico State University has rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students should apply early for the best chance at housing and financial aid.
Does New Mexico State University-Main Campus require SAT or ACT scores?
New Mexico State University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores with their application.
What GPA do you need to get into New Mexico State University-Main Campus?
New Mexico State University requires a minimum 2.25 GPA for in-state students and 2.5 GPA for out-of-state students. Students must also meet course requirements in English, math, science, and social studies.
How many credits can you transfer to New Mexico State University-Main Campus?
New Mexico State University accepts up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours total from all previous institutions. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA from their previous college.