Rebecca Dow, the state representative for New Mexico District 38, expressed concerns about free graduate tuition, stating it lacks oversight and fails to address the state's low graduation rate and narrow degree outcomes.
"Great question! This is the problem with appropriating funds without guardrails," said Rebecca L. Dow, New Mexico State Representative for 38th District (R). "Bigger issue is the 49% NM college graduation rate. The majority of those graduates are earning degrees in general studies and humanities."
In April 2025, New Mexico expanded its Graduate Scholarship program to increase accessibility to advanced degrees by removing the requirement for U.S. citizenship. According to the Daily Lobo, the revised legislation allows all residents to apply regardless of immigration status, provided they maintain academic good standing. The scholarship covers up to two years of funding for master’s programs, aiming to boost graduate enrollment and strengthen the state’s workforce through higher education investment.
During the 2023–2024 academic year, New Mexico’s average college graduation rate was 40.33%, reflecting performance across both two- and four-year institutions. College Tuition Compare reports that this figure represents a slight decline from the previous year and underscores ongoing educational attainment challenges. The data highlights the importance of targeted support to raise completion rates and student retention statewide.
New Mexico’s college graduation rates continue to fall below national norms, with relatively fewer students completing advanced degrees. The Education Data Initiative states that 40.6% of New Mexico graduates earn a bachelor’s degree and only 14.8% complete a master’s program. These numbers are lower than the U.S. averages and reflect the state’s need to invest further in postsecondary education access and completion.
Dow is a Republican representative in the New Mexico House, currently serving District 38 after returning to office in 2025. According to Ballotpedia, she previously served from 2017 to 2023 and is the founder of the AppleTree Educational Center, which provides early childhood services. Her legislative efforts have centered on education policy, with a focus on school choice, early learning access, and community-based education reform.
