Mostly shorlisted candidates were shown red light this year as this may be due to new entry of UNM in HEC pool so, zero experience of scholars got them no where but other factors directly related to indidvidual candidates are : It may be due to their lower score in GRE ( between 290-300), or may be due to lower CGPA (less than 3/4) or may be due to they are newbies to admission process in USA universities (were not able to approach supervisers effeciently).
Admission in USA universities is a skill and not an easy task.in addition one must think before selecting UNM as its fisrt choice while selecting universities in Hec overseas phase 2 batch 6 which is due in next couple of months.

A candidate fit for UNM , my experience about this university

1- Those who had 18 year education and directly applied to PHd prgrm

2- Those who contacted supervisers and convinced, whether it was requirment or not, before application review.

3-Having a good GRE score 320/340. for english professiency Toefl and ILETS just passing marks or band is enough

4-with good educational background CGPA 3/4 and good percentage in previously acquired transcripts.

5-Strong and convincing letter of intent, not haphazardly and randomly written in just one or two days

6-Faculty members or someone having practical experience are prefered than simple graduates.

Remember,This may increase your chances but these are not preconditions

__________________
striving to discover the undiscovered to serve the humanity