At New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI), a college education or high school experience doesn’t have to come with overwhelming costs—especially for New Mexico residents. Many students qualify for tuition assistance that covers most, if not all, of their educational expenses.
At New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI), qualified New Mexico high school students can now attend tuition-free through the General Richard T. Knowles Legislative Scholarship. This scholarship covers the remaining balance needed for the 2025–2026 academic year after all other scholarships are applied.
Award amounts are customized based on each student’s financial need and available aid. To qualify, new cadets must have at least a 2.0 GPA, and returning cadets must maintain a 2.0 GPA and a “C” or higher in deportment (corps grade). All applicants must complete the Legislative Scholarship application.
In addition to the Knowles Scholarship, New Mexico residents may qualify for a range of state and institutional scholarships, including:
· Luciano “Lucky” Varela Opportunity Scholarship – a need-based scholarship for eligible high school students.
· New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship – tuition support for qualifying college cadets.
· New Mexico Lottery Scholarship – available to eligible college students.
Students who do not receive the NM True rate may still qualify for reduced in-state tuition if they are:
· Dependents of active duty or honorably discharged U.S. Armed Forces veterans
· Sponsored Service Academy Preparatory students
· Contracted Senior ROTC (SROTC) cadets
· Athletes participating in the Athletic Grants-in-Aid (AGA) program
Whether you’re exploring options for high school or junior college, NMMI offers a structured, supportive, and affordable educational environment—without sacrificing quality.
Learn more about how to qualify for zero-cost tuition or other scholarships by contacting the NMMI Financial Aid Office today. And explore more at our Financial Aid and Scholarships page or learn about how to get started on our Admissions Process page.
NMMI’s high school program is designed as a college preparatory course of study with small classroom sizes and a 12:1 cadet to faculty ratio. NMMI offers a dual track and scholars programs for high school students. Students may also participate in our Colt athletic teams and numerous extracurricular activities.
NMMI’s junior college program provides a comprehensive education for an associate of arts or an associate of science degree. Nationally ranked as the #1 boarding school for teachers with advanced degrees, 99% of NMMI’s faculty hold a masters degree or doctorate. Students may participate in our Division 1 Bronco athletic teams and numerous extracurricular activities.
NMMI participates as a receiving school for the service academy preparatory programs. We are one of the programs used by the Merchant Marine Academy, the Naval Academy Foundation, West Point Preparatory Scholarship Program, Air Force Falcon Foundation, and the US Coast Guard Academy because of our excellent academic, physical, and leadership preparation. For more information visit our Service Academy Prep page.
NMMI’s Early Commissioning Program (ECP) is a U.S. Army ROTC program that commissions officers in the reserve components (National Guard or Reserve) in two years, instead of the usual four. For more information visit our ROTC page.
