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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 23, 2026 HOBBS, N.M. — University of the Southwest (USW) is proud to announce a new partnership with Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) aimed at making higher education more accessible and affordable for students throughout southeastern New Mexico. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), students who complete an eligible associate degree at SENMC and are accepted into USW will receive a minimum of 60 transferable semester credit hours and a 55% tuition discount toward their bachelor's degree program. "This partnership reflects our commitment to creating more opportunities for students to continue their education," said Dr. Ryan Tipton, President of University of the Southwest. "By working together with Southeast New Mexico College, we're making the path to a bachelor's degree more accessible and affordable while supporting student success across our region." "We recognize how important it is for students in southeastern New Mexico to have opportunities to pursue their educational goals without leaving their communities. Through our partnership with Southeast New Mexico College, we are making higher education more accessible and affordable while creating a clear pathway for students to continue their education and earn their bachelor’s degrees close to home," said Dr. Lopez of University of the Southwest. Beyond financial benefits, the agreement provides students with academic advising, degree planning, and a smoother transition between institutions. The partnership reflects both institutions' shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities and supporting the future of southeastern New Mexico. Students interested in learning more about transfer opportunities and eligibility requirements are encouraged to contact University of the Southwest's admissions office or visit www.usw.edu. Admission requirements and transfer credit policies apply. The 55% discount applies to eligible students' undergraduate tuition, subject to continuous enrollment and university policies. It cannot be combined with other university-funded discounts or awards.

For the second year in a row and the eighth time since 2009, the University of the Southwest has officially captured the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) GPA Award. Click this link to read the official Red River Athletic Conference announcement and see the full leaderboards.

-- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- HOBBS, N.M. — University of the Southwest is proud to announce that its on-campus residence halls have reached 100% occupancy for the Fall 2026 semester, marking the highest residential housing utilization since before the COVID-19 pandemic and signaling continued momentum in the University's enrollment growth and vibrant campus community. With more than 300 students expected to be on campus this fall, over three-quarters of those students will call University of the Southwest home, creating one of the most active and engaged residential communities in recent history. Demand for campus housing has been so strong that the University has established a waiting list for students seeking on-campus accommodations. "This milestone reflects the incredible momentum we're experiencing at USW," said Dr. Ryan Tipton, President of University of the Southwest. "A full residential campus creates an unmatched collegiate experience where students build meaningful relationships, engage in campus life, and develop both spiritually and academically. We are excited to welcome our largest residential community since before the pandemic." The return to full occupancy underscores the University's commitment to providing an exceptional student experience through quality academic programs, a supportive campus environment, and opportunities for leadership, service, and spiritual growth. A thriving residential campus fosters stronger student engagement, increased collaboration, and a dynamic atmosphere that enhances learning both inside and outside the classroom. "This achievement is about more than filling residence halls," Tipton added. "It reflects the confidence that students and families have in the transformational experience at the University of the Southwest. We look forward to an exciting academic year filled with new opportunities, meaningful connections, and a campus energized by a full community of Mustangs." As the University prepares to welcome students in August, faculty and staff are finalizing plans for an engaging Orientation Week, expanded student activities, and programs designed to help new and returning students thrive throughout the academic year. University leaders continue to evaluate future housing opportunities to accommodate growing student demand while maintaining the high-quality residential experience that has become a hallmark of campus life.

graduate Application Personal Information Legal First Name Middle Name(s) Date of Birth Social Security Number (SSN) Are you a U.S. citizen? * Yes No Do you hold permanent resident status? (I-551) N/A Yes No Do you hold a valid student visa? (F-1) N/A Yes No Do you have an alien identification number? N/A Yes No Have you ever been convicted of a felony? * Yes No Legal Last Name Preferred Name(s) Gender * Female Male Other Confirm SSN If no, what country are you a citizen of? If yes, when was it issued? If yes, what is your visa number? If yes, what is your A-number? If yes, provide an explanation. Contact Information Email Primary Phone Number Confirm Email Alternate Phone Number *Note: DO NOT autofill your addresses. It will not submit properly and you will have to resubmit your application. Permanent Street Address State Mailing Street Address State City Zip Code City Zip Code Emergency Contact Information Emergency Contact First Name Relationship to student Emergency Contact Primary Phone Number Emergency Contact Last Name Emergency Contact Email Emergency Contact Alternate Phone Number Demographic Information Hispanic or Latin American descent? * Yes No Unsure Prefer not to say First generation college student? * Yes No Unsure Prefer not to say List all races you identify with. Options: American Indian or Alaska Native Asian Black or African American Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander White Prefer not to say Student Intentions Classification You are applying as a... If other, please explain. Residency Status How will you attend class? Start Term What term do you want to begin classes? Degree/Program Leave blank if undecided Are you seeking teacher licensure? * Yes No Have you been recruited for athletics? * Yes No If yes, which team? Will you be applying for/using financial aid? * Yes No Undergraduate Education Degrees granted Date on diploma Institution Name *Note: DO NOT autofill your school address. It will not submit properly and you will have to resubmit your application. Institution Street Address City State Zip Code Graduate Education Have you taken graduate courses? * Yes No If yes, at what college(s)? (List all) List any degrees granted Currently on academic probation/suspension? * Yes No Have you ever been dismissed from a college? * Yes No If yes, provide an explanation. How did you learn about USW? *REQUIRED* I agree that University of the Southwest may contact me about educational services by phone, email, and text message at the contact information provided. Message & data rates may apply. Check to opt out of text messaging. (Phone contact is still required for communicating sensitive information.) *REQUIRED* I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy Submit An error occurred. Check that all required fields have been completed.

Free Application for Federal Student AID (FAFSA®) What is the FAFSA? The FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a government form in the United States that students and their families complete to determine eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, to help pay for higher education expenses. USW uses the FAFSA® for all financial aid consideration, so it's crucial that students complete it every year. To complete your FAFSA®, you will need USW's federal school code: 013935 Helpful tips: Check Email Each student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) which summarizes information provided on the FAFSA® to the e-mail used on their FAFSA®. Please review the information for accuracy and keep the SAR for record purposes. Corrections can be made to a student's FAFSA® by logging on to the FAFSA® website. USW will send all communication to student's USW e-mail address once admitted. Communication prior to admission will be sent to e-mail provided on application or request for information forms. Promptly Submit any Requested Documentation In order to complete your financial aid application, USW may request student and parent (if dependent) copies of federal tax transcript, W-2's or other documentation required by FAFSA® for verification purposes. Respond promptly to such requests to assure timely processing of student financial aid. Read Award Letter Carefully When the FAFSA is complete and the student has met USW's admission criteria, the Office of Financial Aid will award you as well as provide additional directions. Read the award notification carefully. Instructions for accepting awards and completing the Direct Loan process (if necessary) will be included in the award. Get Started! Step 1 Estimate Your AID Step 2 FAFSA® Tutorial Step 3 Complete FAFSA® Step 4 Review Awards

Scholarships University Grants Click Here! University Discounts Click Here! Athletic Scholarships Click Here! University Scholarships Click Here! Donor-Funded Scholarships Click Here! External Scholarships Click Here! Important Dates APPLICATION OPENS: March 1st EARLY SUBMISSION DEADLINE: June 15th REGULAR SUBMISSION DEADLINE: July 15th Your applicatio USW Grants & Scholarships Application Important Dates Application Opens: March 1st Early Submission Deadline: June 15th Regular Submission Deadline: July 15th *All candidates must meet the 3.0 cumulative GPA requirement. Application Checklist In addition to this application, submit the following via email to scholarships@usw.edu . Your application for grants and scholarships will be considered upon receipt of all items. Current transcript Fall enrollment in courses offered by USW Essay (for students applying for donor-funded scholarships) Letter of Recommendation (for students applying for donor-funded scholarships) Notice to USW Student-Athletes (receiving an Athletic Award) Athletic awards cannot be received in conjunction with other Institutional awards. Institutional Awards Institutional Awards cannot be received in conjunction with one another. University Grants: Lea County High School Graduate Grant, NMJC Graduate Grant, Community College or Junior College Graduate Grant, Resident Director, Resident Assistant, and Graduate Assistant. University Discounts: Undergraduate Discount & Graduate Discount. Athletic Awards: Undergraduate Athletic Scholarships, Undergraduate Grant for Campus Housing, Undergraduate Athletic Scholar Award for Campus Housing, and Graduate Athletic Scholarship. Donor Funded Scholarships Donor Funded Scholarships can be received in conjunction with other Institutional awards. Tyler James Memorial Scholarship The Tyler James Memorial Scholarship can be received in conjunction with other Institutional awards. For consideration, you must be a member of the USW Golf team. The Scholarship Coordinator may request additional information to determine eligibility. Next Questions? Click below to contact a USW representative Future Students - or - email admissions@usw.edu Current Students - or - email scholarships@usw.edu University Grants University grants are institutional awards available to students who are enrolled in courses offered by USW, demonstrate eligibility, and meet the listed criteria. Community or Junior College Graduate Grant Available to recent associate degree graduates from a community or junior college. Renewable each semester. Students must be full-time at 12 hours per semester. Grants based on 15 hours per semester for undergraduate-level classes. If below 15 hours, grants are reduced pro-rata. Limited to $7,000 annually ($3,500 per semester). Cumulative GPA required at USW 3.0 to continue eligibility. Must have graduated from a community or junior college within the past 18 months and a GPA of at least a 2.5. Associate’s degrees must be compatible with USW programs. The grants cannot be awarded in conjunction with other institutional awards. Contact for more information: Jennifer Thorpe (jthorpe@usw.edu ) Lea County High School Graduate Grant Available to high school graduates from Lea County schools. Renewable each semester. Students must be full-time at 12 hours per semester. Grants based on 15 hours per semester for undergraduate-level classes. If below 15 hours, grants reduced pro-rata. Limited to $8,000 annually ($4,000 per semester). Cumulative GPA required at USW 3.0 to continue eligibility. Must have graduated from Lea County school within the past 18 months and a GPA of at least a 2.5. Cannot be awarded in conjunction with other institutional awards. Contact for more information: Jennifer Thorpe (jthorpe@usw.edu ) NMJC Graduate Grant Available to recent associate degree graduates from New Mexico Junior College (NMJC). Renewable each semester. Students must be full-time at 12 hours per semester. Grants based on 15 hours per semester for undergraduate-level classes. If below 15 hours, grants are reduced pro-rata. Limited to $8,000 annually ($4,000 per semester). Cumulative GPA required at USW 3.0 to continue eligibility. Must have graduated from NMJC within the past 18 months and a GPA of at least a 2.5. Associate's degrees must be compatible with USW programs. The grants cannot be awarded in conjunction with other institutional awards. Contact for more information: Jennifer Thorpe (jthorpe@usw.edu ) Resident Director & Resident Assistant University grants are available for limited positions of Resident Director and Resident Assistant. Contact the Campus Life & Student Affairs department for more information. Resident Director: Grant covers on-campus housing for a single room and a meal plan. Resident Assistant: Grant covers on-campus housing for a single room. Contact for more information: Amanda Guzman-Appel (aguzman@usw.edu) Graduate Assistant Graduate Assistant (GA) positions are limited and will be issued a single $17,650 annual scholarship, of which $12,150 will be allocated to cover tuition costs. GAs will be able to use the $12,150 across the entire academic year (fall, spring, or summer). The summer tuition disbursement could be moved to fall or spring with a request in writing to the Office of Financial Aid. The remaining $5,500 will be dispersed equally in Fall A, Fall B, Spring A, Spring B as a refund if account is in good standing. Alternatively, a GA can elect to exchange the $5,500 disbursement for campus housing (as determined by USW) and board (i.e., Meal plan) in the Fall and Spring semesters. GAs will be considered students (not employees) and not required to submit time sheets, etc. They will have a commitment to athletics (or their department) to earn their scholarship, just as an athlete would, which includes being enrolled in Fall A, Fall B, Spring A and Spring B to receive the scholarship. Contact for more information: Applicable Coaching Staff University Discounts University discounts are institutional awards available to students who are enrolled in courses offered by University of the Southwest (USW) and who are not receiving any other university institutional awards. Applications are not required and will be auto reviewed. Undergraduate Discount Available to first time incoming undergraduate students enrolled more than 12 hours of credits during their first semester. Discount available for credits exceeding 12 hours in the first semester of enrollment. Discount limited to 3 credit hours. Non-renewable. The grants cannot be awarded in conjunction with other institutional awards. Contact for more information: Admissions Office Graduate Discount Available to first time incoming graduate students enrolled in a master’s program. First class free. Non-renewable. The grants cannot be awarded in conjunction with other institutional awards. Certain eligibility requirements exist, including, but not limited to, student must be degree-seeking and have limited graduate transfer credits. Contact for more information: Admissions Office Athletic SCholarships University Mustang athletic scholarships are available to degree-seeking athletes. Athletic scholarships are determined by the coach and participation in the program. The scholarships cannot be awarded in conjunction with other institutional awards. Student must be enrolled at the beginning of the semester for eligibility, unless prior approval obtained from the Vice President of Campus Facilities & Athletics. Total undergraduate athletic grants/scholarships cannot exceed $16,000 annually ($8,000 per semester). Total graduate athletic grants/scholarships cannot exceed $7,000 annually ($3,500 per semester). Undergraduate Athletic Scholarship Renewable each semester. Student must be full-time at 12 hours per semester unless approved by Director of Athletics. Limited to $8,000 annually ($4,000 per semester). Grants based on 15 hours per semester. If below 15 hours, scholarships are reduced pro-rata. Contact for more information: Applicable Coaching Staff Undergraduate Athletic Grant for Campus Housing Renewable each semester. Student must be full-time at 12 hours per semester. Limited to $8,000 annually ($4,000 per semester). Student must live on campus in dorms or apartments. Grants based on 15 hours per semester. If below 15 hours, scholarships are reduced pro-rata. Contact for more information: Applicable Coaching Staff Undergraduate Athletic Scholar Award for Campus Housing Renewable each semester. Student must be full-time at 12 hours per semester. Limited to $4,000 annually ($2,000 per semester). Student must live on campus in dorms or apartments. Grants based on 15 hours per semester. If below 15 hours, scholarships are reduced pro-rata. Available to entering students only. Cumulative GPA required at USW 3.25 to continue eligibility. Contact for more information: Applicable Coaching Staff Graduate Athletic Scholarship Renewable each semester. Student must be enrolled in 9 hours per semester. Contact for more information: Applicable Coaching Staff University Scholarships University scholarships are available to students who are enrolled in courses offered by University of the Southwest (USW) and who demonstrate eligibility and meet the listed criteria. University scholarships are limited in number. Tyler James Memorial Scholarship Available to one student golf team member in memory of Coach Tyler James. Student must be a full-time undergraduate student taking at least 12 credit hours per semester. Scholarship is in the amount of $2,000 ($1,000 Fall semester and $1,000 Spring semester). Preference will be given to students from Killeen, TX. Contact for more information: Jennifer Thorpe (jthorpe@usw.edu ) Club Officer Scholarships Available to officers of USW-recognized clubs through the Campus Life & Student Affairs department. Applications are not required and will be submitted by the Campus Life & Student Affairs department. Scholarships are available for the fall and spring semesters. President: $500 per semester Vice President: $250 per semester Secretary: $250 per semester Historian: $250 per semester Contact for more information: Amanda Guzman-Appel (aguzman@usw.edu) Donor-Funded Scholarships Donor-funded scholarships are available to degree-seeking students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0+. Donor-funded scholarships are limited in number and are selected from scholarship applications. A scholarship application, essay, and school transcript with GPA are required for consideration, including scholarship renewals. If awarded a scholarship, a letter of appreciation written to the donor must be submitted to the Scholarship Coordinator by September 30th. The Scholarship Coordinator will facilitate mailing to the respective donor. Contact for more information: Jennifer Thorpe (jthorpe@usw.edu ) Allsup Family Scholarship Established by the Allsup Family Charitable Foundation with the primary objective to support undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in education, STEM, and business fields. Cecilia Lynn Abbott Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Cecelia Lynn Abbott where the primary objective is to provide scholarships to earnest students with financial needs concerning their education. Clyde & Murrell Abbott Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Clyde and Murrell Abbott where the primary objective is to provide scholarships to students based on need and merit. Cynthia Nalda Scholarship Endowment Established in memory of Cynthia Nalda with the primary objective to provide qualified students with annual scholarships in support of their financial needs pertaining to their education. Dr. William G. McPheron Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Dr. William G. McPheron with the intention of paying tribute to the pride that he had in his relationship with USW. The primary objective of the endowment is to serve his memory and the institution’s needs. Hatton W. Sumners Endowed Scholarship Originally established to provide scholarship assistance for deserving SIFE students who demonstrate financial need. Later, the award was revised to include deserving students who demonstrate leadership and are in need of scholarship assistance. Hobbs News Sun Scholarship Established with the primary objective to provide scholarships to deserving students in support of their financial needs pertaining to their education. Students must demonstrate financial need and be a New Mexico resident. IPS 2022 Golf Team Memorial Established in memory of the 2022 golf team involved in an accident during their travels home from a golf tournament. Six students along with the USW golf coach did not survive the accident. Students considered for the scholarship must be a member of USW athletics, with preference given to members of the golf team. Jackson Zinn Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Jackson Zinn, a beloved member of the 2022 Golf Team. Jackson was one of six students who did not survive an accident traveling home from a tournament. Students considered for the scholarship must be a member of USW Athletics, with priority given to members of the golf team. Jacquie Brunson Established in memory of Mrs. Jacquie Brunson to continue her legacy and celebrate her love of life, her dedication to community, and her commitment to family. J.J. Uncle Joe Smith Scholarship Fund Established in memory of Mr. Joe Smith, a former educator at USW (formerly CSW) during the 1970’s, for the primary support and encouragement of higher education for deserving students from the Jal/Lea County region. Students must demonstrate financial need. Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Memorial Scholarship Established by the Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Memorial Foundation with the primary objective of supporting full-time undergraduate or graduate degree students in education. Preference is given to students who are former or current members of Educators Rising. Students must be a New Mexico resident. Karisa Ann Raines Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Karisa Ann Raines, a beloved member of the 2022 Golf Team. Karisa was one of six students who did not survive an accident traveling home from a tournament. Students considered for the scholarship must be a member of USW Athletics, with priority given to members of the golf team. Kenneth J. Fadke Established in appreciation of Kenneth J. Fadke, a wonderful and supportive friend of USW, in honor of his encouragement of students. The primary objective is to provide helpful assistance to capable USW students. Laci Stone Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Laci Stone, a beloved member of the 2022 Golf Team. Laci was one of six students who did not survive an accident traveling home from a tournament. Students considered for the scholarship must be a member of USW Athletics, with priority given to members of the golf team. Lovington Odd Fellow and Rebekah Lodges Endowment Established with the primary objective to provide scholarships to deserving students in support of their financial needs pertaining to their education. First consideration of the award will be given to Lea County residents. McClesky Scholarship in Business and Free Enterprise Established by Sheila and Peter McClesky to support educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Available to Business major students with financial need, academic performance, and character in the classroom. M.S. & Meek Lane Doss Opportunity Award Established with the primary objective to provide scholarships to students pursuing an undergraduate degree with financial needs. Award preference will be granted to students who are graduates of high schools located in Western Texas or Southeastern New Mexico. M.S. and Meek Lane Doss Endowed Scholarship Recognized as an extension of the M.S. & Meek Lane Doss Opportunity Award agreement where the primary objective is to provide scholarships to students pursuing an undergraduate degree with financial need. Award preference will be granted to students who are graduates of high schools located in Western Texas or Southeastern New Mexico. New Mexico Student Loans Scholarship Endowment Established with the primary objective of providing scholarships to those in need, as well as a legacy of hope for New Mexico students in the future. Students must demonstrate financial need and be a New Mexico resident. Richard C. Brown Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Richard C. Brown, a graduate of Eunice High School, who served our Country with distinction in senior-level positions in the Defense Department, including having served as a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense. Student must be a high school graduate of Eunice High School, participate in campus life, and serve the community at large. Scholarship is merit based and available to undergraduate students. Robert A. Mathis Scholarship Established in memory of Mickey Mathis with the primary objective to provide qualified undergraduate students with annual scholarships in support of their financial needs pertaining to their education. Students should not be Pell eligible and must be U.S. citizens. Travis Garcia Memorial Scholarship Established in memory of Travis Garcia, a beloved member of the 2022 Golf Team. Travis was one of six students who did not survive an accident traveling home from a tournament. Students considered for the scholarship must be a member of USW Athletics, with priority given to members of the golf team. Wells Fargo Scholarship Established with the primary objective to provide scholarships to deserving students in support of their financial needs pertaining to their educations. Students must be majoring in Business or Education. Preference will be given to New Mexico applicants. External Scholarships What are external scholarships? External scholarships are financial awards offered by organizations, companies, or foundations outside of educational institutions. They are not provided by the school and can be based on various criteria, such as academic achievement, family income, demographic, or community involvement. Getting Started Make a list of organizations and institutions you are affiliated with, then make contact. Find out if the organization in question offers any grants or scholarships. Begin with: USW Your state Your community Religious affiliations Extra-curricular organizations Your employer Churches/youth groups Sports teams There are likely additional affiliations in your life that could fit on this list. Please contact as many relevant organizations as possible to ask about their available resources. If your relationship with an organization is especially strong, it may be possible to secure some financial support even without a formal scholarship fund in place. Keep in mind that legitimate scholarship information should be free of charge . Be sure to review information from the Federal Trade Commission about scholarship scams before you apply. External Sch olarship Opportunities New Mexico Landmen’s Association Scholarship Lariat Future Innovators Foundation Albuquerque Community Foundation External Scholarship Databases Fast Web is a popular free scholarship search engine that connects students to college scholarships, trade school scholarships, and financial aid tools. They aim to help students find scholarships that make college or vocational school more affordable. Scholarships.com is one of the most widely used and trusted free college scholarship search engines that helps connect students with the opportunity to find free money for college and interact with prospective colleges. Free-4u is a national database of scholarships. Scholarship Owl offers AI-powered tools and technology to connect students to open scholarship opportunities. Scholarship Experts allows students to create profiles and be matched with grants and scholarships in all categories. Scholarship America is the country's largest and most experienced provider of private scholarships. *Disclaimer* USW is not responsible for establishing criteria or participating in the selection or notification of external scholarship recipients. The suggested search sites in this section are provided for informational purposes only. Inclusion in the listing does not constitute an endorsement by USW.