Private postsecondary enrollment in New Mexico has increased by 6%, reaching a total of 10,685 students. The New Mexico Higher Education Department recently completed the state authorization renewal process for 95 institutions for the 2026 academic year. An additional 10 institutions remain in good standing.
The types of institutions that received state authorization renewal include 44 distance education institutions, 33 licensed institutions, 11 registered institutions, and seven out-of-state proprietary institutions.
“The state authorization process is a safeguard for students across New Mexico,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “This ensures that all institutions are operating with transparency, accountability and a commitment to educational quality.”
State authorization is required by law and regulation to ensure private postsecondary schools meet minimum standards set by the state and the New Mexico Administrative Code. Institutions that receive this authorization are considered to have met these standards and are approved to operate within New Mexico.
A report from the Private Post-Secondary Division for the 2024 academic year noted that 31% of state-authorized non-accredited institutions granted certificates or diplomas.
“The number of New Mexico state-authorized distance education institutions has doubled in the past seven years, expanding from 22 to 44”, said Director Pascal Buser of the Private Post-Secondary Schools Division. This growth shows how the New Mexico Interstate Distance Education Act is opening doors for more students to pursue quality higher education while ensuring their investments are protected.”
All authorized institutions were reviewed by the department’s Private Postsecondary Schools Division and found to meet regulatory standards.
Further information about state authorization and a list of authorized schools can be found at www.hed.nm.gov.
