College & Career

Every MAS student in grades 9 through 12 participates in annual, fully-funded college trips, giving them firsthand exposure to a variety of colleges and universities.

• Broad Exposure: Students visit two-year and four-year colleges and universities.
• Beyond the Academics: Students tour dorms, financial aid offices, student support centers, libraries, and lecture halls to understand both academic and campus life.
• Specialized Tours: As students advance through high school, college visits become more tailored to their academic interests and career goals.

For many MAS students, these trips are their first introduction to a college campus. With over 50% of MAS graduates being the first in their family to earn a high school diploma and over 90% becoming first-generation college graduates, these experiences bridge the gap between high school and higher education.

All college trips are fully funded by MAS, so every student can explore college and plan for their future.

The SAT is New Mexico's accountability assessment for 11th graders. At MAS, we ensure that students take these critical exams with thorough preparation and zero financial barriers.

• Comprehensive SAT Prep: Beginning in 9th grade, students receive deliberate SAT preparation, including practice exams and covering test-taking strategies and tactics and skill development.
• Breaking Barriers: While test scores aren’t everything, we know they can impact college acceptance and scholarship opportunities. Our objective is that all MAS students will achieve eligibility due to a proficient SAT score.

All SAT test administration fees are fully covered by MAS, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to opportunity.

MAS students have the opportunity to enroll in college courses while still in high school through our Dual Credit Program, in partnership with Central New Mexico Community College (CNM). Here’s what you need to know:

• College-Level Learning with MAS Support: High school students take college courses while receiving support from MAS teachers and counselors.
• Free Tuition & Materials: MAS fully covers the cost of tuition and course materials, making this an accessible opportunity for all students.
• Seamless Transition to Higher Education: Dual credit courses count toward both high school graduation requirements and college degrees or certificates.

In their freshman year at MAS, students take the Accuplacer placement exam, ensuring they are prepared to enroll in the right college courses. Our College and Career Readiness Counselors provide one-on-one guidance to help students select courses that align with their future goals and objectives.

Navigating college applications and financial aid can be overwhelming, and MAS students don’t do it alone! Our dedicated College and Career Readiness Counselors provide:

• One-on-one guidance throughout the college application process.
• Support in applying to at least two colleges by the fall of senior year.
• Resources for families to complete FAFSA and scholarship applications.
• Support for working on college essays, as well as guidance in career exploration.

Our objective is to ensure that every MAS high school graduate leaves with a clear post-secondary plan, whether that’s attending college, pursuing a trade, or enlisting in the military.