How to Apply

Pre-Application Advisement

Potential SFS applicants are strongly advised to contact Professor Christodoulou well in advance of their intended application date. Send an email to christos@unm.edu and attach your current resume and unofficial transcripts for all college-level courses. Professor Christodoulou or an SFS staff member will review your materials and schedule a follow-up meeting if needed. The review will evaluate your eligibility, competitiveness, and recommend actions you can take before applying to improve your competitiveness.

Master's Degree Co-Application

SFS applicants must be admitted to the UNM MS in Cybersecurity and Business Analytics or MS in Computer Science Engineering programs. Students may apply simultaneously for Master's program admission and for the SFS program. But the application processes are separate and SFS awards will not be made until after an applicant has been admitted to one of the MS programs. Each eligible Master's program has its own application deadlines and admission requirements.

SFS Application Deadlines

SFS applications are awarded for study starting in either the Fall or Spring semesters. Application open/close dates for each semester are as follows:

Fall semester application window:

  • No earlier that January 1.
  • No later than May 15.

Spring semester application window:

  • No earlier than June 1.
  • No later than September 30.

For best consideration, submit your application during the first two months of the application window.

Application Materials

A complete application for the SFS program consists of the following items:

  • Transcripts from all colleges attended (unofficial transcripts are acceptable though official transcripts may be required if the candidate is selected as a semifinalist or finalist)
  • Banner ID number (only required for students who have or are currently attending UNM)
  • A 1-2 page statement of interest (may be included in email message with other application materials attached)
  • Current resume
  • List of three academic or professional references with complete contact information
  • Copy of social security card **
  • Proof of United States citizenship or lawful permanent residency (Copy of passport, copy of permanent resident alien card I-551, or birth certificate) **

Transcripts, Banner ID number, statement of interest, resume, and list of references must be submitted by email to christos@unm.edu.

** Deliver your social security card copy and proof of U.S. citizenship documents by one of the following methods:

  1. In person to the Centennial Engineering Center, Suite 2080
  2. Via US mail to:
    Aidira D. Y. Macias Gonzalez
    MSC01 1145
    1 University of New Mexico
    Albuquerque, NM 87131