New Mexico has become the fifth state in the United States to offer free high school equivalency exams. This development follows the approval of House Bill 167 by the state Senate and its concurrence in the House on March 22. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Joy Garratt and E. Diane Torres-Velásquez along with Senator Nicole Tobiassen, aims to make these exams accessible at no cost for residents.
The New Mexico Higher Education Department expects this initiative to increase the number of adults earning a high school equivalency diploma. Currently, nearly 200,000 adults in New Mexico lack such credentials. Adult education programs already provide free test preparation across 26 sites statewide. By eliminating exam fees, which total approximately $145 per test, participation is projected to rise by 20 to 40 percent over three years.
Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez expressed enthusiasm about the program: “We are in the business of education and the New Mexico Higher Education Department is elated to offer free high school equivalency testing to New Mexicans who aspire to further their education but have faced financial barriers.” She added that obtaining a high school equivalency can open valuable opportunities for residents.
Since 2021, there has been a nearly 50 percent increase in New Mexicans taking these tests. The passage of House Bill 167 is expected to further boost participation as more individuals seek educational advancement.
Representative Garratt emphasized the significance of this legislation: “We are proud to be the fifth state in the nation to offer high school equivalency credentials to New Mexicans at no cost to them,” she said. “Education is the right of everyone in New Mexico, and the New Mexico Higher Education Department is removing barriers.”
For those seeking more information on adult education programs within New Mexico, resources are available at hed.nm.gov.
