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Mexico’s warm people, interesting cultural facts and colorful customs create an incredible and unforgettable experience. It gives participants the opportunity to come into direct contact with the Spanish language and Mexican culture, learn to be more independent and feel even more part of a global world. Our programs have a strong cultural and familiar component, offering quality education and language activities in order to improve Spanish participants skills.

Study Abroad in Mexico

Explore a rich blend of history, tradition, and vibrant culture by spending a semester in Mexico! Whether it’s wandering the ruins of ancient civilizations, dancing the night away at a street festival, or walking along some of the world’s most stunning beaches, you’ll never have a dull moment during your time in Mexico. Not only will you experience everything this world-renowned destination has to offer — you’ll be living life with a local host family and perfecting your Spanish skills in the process!

When it comes to embarking on new adventures and expanding your knowledge, the possibilities are endless in Mexico. You’ll have the opportunity to rediscover Mexican food through regional variations, learn about its varied landscapes and climate, and experience the country’s many creative traditions through art and music in a place teaming with color and life.

Things to know about Mexico

One word to describe Mexico would be variation; it boasts both stunning beaches and arid deserts, vibrant textiles and ancient silver-smithing, and a love of both sports and intricate musical styles. Encompassing a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, you’ll find history interwoven into almost every aspect of Mexican life. Much of Mexico’s cultural heritage can be traced back to the Mayans and Aztecs, but it also owes many traditions and values to three centuries of Spanish colonization before achieving its independence as a country in 1821.

Mexicans are warm, expressive, and generous people who value family and hospitality–spending time with loved ones and engaging with the community is an important part of daily life for many people. They hold great pride in their cultural traditions and are known for their creativity, work ethic, and sense of humor. About 81% of the population lives in urban areas, which means knowing and respecting others is a core part of daily life for most Mexicans.

During your time in Mexico, you’ll likely spend much of your time engaging with the local population, which will provide many opportunities to expand your Spanish skills, connect with your peers, and foster deep relationships with your host family. Mexicans hold art and music in high esteem, boasting traditional dances such as Jarabe Tapatío (known as the Mexican Hat Dance) and Folklórico dances, which vary across regions and employ their own styles, costumes, and music. You’ll likely encounter mariachi music and salsa dancing, which is a popular Latin style found in clubs and at festivals, especially in Mexico City.

What's included in your experience

  • Airfare
  • Airport Pick-up
  • Host Family Placement
  • Housing
  • Meals
  • School Placement
  • Medical Insurance
  • 24/7 Emergency Support
  • Domestic Transport
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • Orientations during your time abroad
  • Re-entry Orientation

What you are responsible for

  • Vaccinations
  • School Transport
  • Visa and Passport Fees
  • School Materials
  • Project Materials
  • Stipend
AFS-USA_Mexico

Meeting Your Host Family in Mexico

During your time in Mexico, you will live with a host family and join their everyday routines. Customs can vary greatly from one community to the next, so it’s important to communicate with your host family and ask questions if you’re unsure about proper etiquette. Respect, especially for elders, is held in high regard; informing your host parents of your whereabouts and introducing them to your friends will be an important part of building trust. Family is a core part of life for Mexican people, so you’ll likely find yourself at large gatherings full of laughter and singing, where people will be excited to get to know you! Many Mexican families are also Roman Catholic and may have strong religious beliefs that influence their way of life.

Your High School in Mexico

Education tends to be more traditional and formal in Mexico, so you may find the school system to be different than the one you’re used to. At your new school, people will be excited to get to know you and may have a lot of questions, so patience and kindness is key! If you’re attending public school, you may be required to wear a uniform. Sports and extracurricular activities are not always a staple of school life in Mexico, so it’s helpful to seek these out through local clubs in your community – this is a great way to make new friends, step out of your comfort zone, and explore new hobbies. Many young people in Mexico are very social and value friendships, so you may find yourself spending lots of time with your peers!

mexico food

Food You’ll Encounter

While living with your host family, the foods you eat may be dependent on their own culture and traditions. Chances are you’ll recognize many popular foods like tamales, enchiladas, and tacos – each with unique ingredients, spices, and styles depending on the region. A common food you may try at home is pazole, a hearty soup made with corn, meat, and peppers. For breakfast, you’ll likely encounter familiar foods like eggs and toast with avocado, tortas with beans and cheese, or burritos. No matter what cuisines you try, you’re sure to get a unique experience based on the different areas of Mexico you’re exploring and how different people like to prepare their food.