Legislative Lottery Scholarship
The Legislative Lottery Scholarship helps pay part or, depending on authorized award levels and eligible tuition, up to tuition for students at New Mexico public and tribal colleges. Lottery revenue funds it, but eligibility does not depend on buying tickets: students apply through their institution under higher-education rules. The college determines the package and may apply the award after the first term, once the student demonstrates eligibility.
About Legislative Lottery Scholarship
The Legislative Lottery Scholarship helps pay part or, depending on authorized award levels and eligible tuition, up to tuition for students at New Mexico public and tribal colleges. Lottery revenue funds it, but eligibility does not depend on buying tickets: students apply through their institution under higher-education rules. The college determines the package and may apply the award after the first term, once the student demonstrates eligibility.
The standard pathway serves New Mexico high-school or equivalency graduates entering an eligible school as first-time freshmen. Current rules include full-time enrollment and credit requirements; the department has updated flexibility to assess hours across the academic year and allow summer courses under current terms. Dual-credit hours do not disqualify a student, but applicants should identify as first-time freshmen on their college applications.
Students must meet the minimum GPA at the end of their first term—the state guidance lists 2.5—and maintain it for renewal. They also need consecutive fall and spring enrollment, the required credits, and progress toward an eligible degree. A break or reduced load can affect continuity, so speak with financial aid before dropping courses or changing colleges.
There is no single amount every student should assume: the Lottery Scholarship may cover a share of tuition that changes by cycle and available funding, and it does not generally pay housing, food, or transportation by itself. FAFSA remains useful because it opens access to other grants that reduce net cost. Ask the campus how much will be credited each term, which charges remain, and what records are needed to certify eligibility.
Ask the financial-aid office for a written term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, books, and other costs. Keep the award letter, records, and any service agreement. If your studies, residence, or course load change, contact the administrator before that decision affects your aid.
College scholarship and financial-aid program