Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?

Students must be enrolled in one or more of our Davis New Mexico Scholarship affiliate programs. You can find a list of our affiliate programs here. Additionally, students must be in the first generation in the family to earn a four-year college degree OR have a family income of under 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. You can find more information on the federal poverty guidelines here.

Not sure if you qualify? If you’re enrolled in one of our affiliates, we’re happy to help you understand the qualifications, just send us a message at the link below.

What is a first generation college student?

First generation college students are students whose parents did not earn a bachelor’s degree. Many scholarships and colleges define “first-gen” differently, but we mean students who are in the first generation in their families to earn a four-year degree. That means if you have a parent with an Associate’s Degree or a sibling or cousin who has a four-year degree, you are still eligible for the Davis New Mexico Scholarship, if you meet other criteria.

For more information on first generation college students, as well as resources and statistics, visit: https://firstgen.naspa.org/

Why these partner colleges?

The colleges and universities selected for the Davis New Mexico Scholarship all have a proven track record of success with first-generation college-going students. We work closely with staff of admissions, student life, academic advising, and special programs at our partner colleges to ensure that Davis New Mexico Scholars receive excellent services throughout their time as an applicant and through college graduation.

Additionally, all of our partner colleges offer a Liberal Arts curriculum to their students. We at the Davis New Mexico Scholarship believe that all students, even those enrolled in rigorous pre-professional programs, should be expected to think broadly across the curriculum, and that the curricula at our partner college prepare students for a lifetime of successful employment in a rapidly changing world.

Why these affiliate high schools and programs?

Davis New Mexico Scholarship affiliates provide excellent college access to first-generation college-going students. They have robust college counseling programs that work with students and families to ensure that first gen students build the skills inside and outside of the classroom to be successful in college.

What if I’m not sure I want to leave New Mexico for college?

You should still apply for the Davis New Mexico Scholarship! Earning the Davis New Mexico Scholarship provides you and your family with a way to make a meaningful choice about your college experience--one about education and your experience rather than about finances. Many colleges here in New Mexico provide an excellent education, and we encourage students who will be best served by local colleges and universities to explore those options alongside the Davis New Mexico Scholarship partner colleges.

How do you select Davis New Mexico Scholars?

The Davis New Mexico Scholarship selection committee is asked a simple question: which students are most likely to graduate in four years? Although the question is simple, the answer is complex. Usually, we are looking for students who have done well in rigorous high school courses, have been involved in the schools and the affiliate(s) they are enrolled in, and who can articulate why they have the resiliency to be successful in higher education.

Do the Partner Colleges contribute to the Davis New Mexico Scholarship?

Yes! Our partner colleges provide at least half of each student’s Davis New Mexico Scholarship. Whether through institutional or federal funds, the partner colleges fund at least 50% of each Davis New Mexico Scholarship.