Congratulations and Welcome to the Class of 2029!
The University of New Mexico School of Law boasts one of the most diverse faculty and student bodies in the nation, and prides itself on opening access to the legal process. Our students learn in a small, collegial environment, focused on their success. Our 4.8:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows students the opportunity to engage in-depth with our talented and dedicated faculty. As part of their JD studies, students may earn a certificate in Indian Law or Natural Resources and Environmental Law. Students can also earn academic credit for participation in one of our three Journals, our Border Justice Initiative, our Semester in DC Program, our Madrid Summer Law Institute, our Externship Program, and more.
Our enduring commitment to practical legal training guarantees students numerous opportunities to gain real-world experience. In 1971, we became the first law school in the United States to require Clinic as a condition of graduation. Since that time, our Clinic has become one of the largest legal service providers in New Mexico. Students are guaranteed to receive hands-on experience representing real clients in federal, state, and tribal courts across a wide array of practice areas. Our Clinical Law Program is nationally recognized for excellence and is currently ranked as the #14 clinical training program by U.S. News & World Report.
We are excited to welcome you to our Class of 2029!
Important Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 15, 2026 | Named Scholarship Application Opens |
| March 1, 2026 | Named Scholarship Application Closes |
| March 27, 2026 | Admitted Students Day Open House |
| April 17, 2026 | Virtual Admitted Students Day Open House |
| August 1, 2026 | Submit Your Final Transcript |
| August 12-14, 2026 | Mandatory New Student Orientation* |
| August 17, 2026 | Fall 2026 Classes Begin |
*A full orientation schedule will be available by August 1, 2026. However, students can expect mandatory programming for the full business day on August 12 and 13, and ending by Noon on August 14.
Additional Programs
American Indian Law Center Pre-Law Summer Institute
May 27, 2026 through July 24, 2026
This 8-week program prepares American Indian and Alaska Native students for the rigors of law school. Visit the American Indian Law Center for more information.
The application will open on January 14, 2026. Applications are due by March 13, 2026. Late applications will be considered on a space-available basis.
Latiné American Law Students Association Community Lawyering Analysis Skills Seminar
This program is offered as a supplemental day to orientation. Programming will focus focus on enhancing substantive skills, like case briefing and outlining, and will provide specific resources for diverse students. You do not have to identify as Latiné to attend. All 1Ls are welcome, and the Latiné American Law Students Association especially encourages first-generation students to attend.
This program typically takes place on the Saturday before New Student Orientation. You’ll receive more information, and a registration link, in early August 2026.
Student Bar Association First Year Mentorship Program
This program pairs 1L students with a 2L or 3L mentor and is designed to provide connection and community with those who have experienced what you may go through in your first year of law school.
Mentorship begins at New Student Orientation, with a lunch sponsored by the Student Bar Association. You’ll receive more information, and a link to the sign up questionnaire, in early August 2026.
