If you’re planning a move from the US to Mexico with your family, one of the first questions you must consider will be about school. Figuring out education in a new country can feel like a lot at first, especially if you’re comparing it to the US system while also dealing with visas, housing, and everything else that comes with a big life change.
At Remitly, we know these decisions go beyond logistics: you’re thinking about your child’s comfort and their future. The reassuring part is that Mexico’s education system is well structured, and you’ll find some similarities to what you’re used to in the US. Our guide walks you through how schools in Mexico actually work, the types of schools families usually consider, what costs you should expect, and how enrollment typically plays out.
How education in Mexico is set up
At first glance, school systems can feel confusing, especially when you’re trying to navigate other aspects of life in Mexico at the same time. The great thing about the Mexican education system is that it’s consistent wherever you go. Big city, small town, or coastal village, you’ll notice that the basic structure stays the same.
Preschool
Preschool is designed for kids ages three to five, with attendance becoming mandatory by age four.
The idea is that it gently introduces children to school life without any academic pressure. It’s all about play, routines, making friends, and learning how to exist in a classroom without needing a nap halfway through the day.
If you’re new to Mexico, you’ll see that your child starts to pick up Spanish naturally during these preschool years, probably before you even realize what’s happening.
Primary school
Primary school runs from ages six to twelve and covers grades one through six. This is when reading, writing, math, science, and history really start to take shape.
There’s also a strong focus on Mexican history and civic values, which can be surprisingly helpful for kids adjusting to a new country. It gives them context, a sense of place, and something familiar to talk about with classmates, which matters more than you might think.
Middle school
Middle school spans from grades seven through nine, usually for students ages twelve to fifteen. This is when kids start managing different subjects, multiple teachers, and, as you probably know, a lot more complex decisions.
Some schools offer technical secondary programs that mix academics with practical subjects. These can be a great fit for students who like hands-on learning or need to see how school connects to real life outside the classroom.
High school
High school, known as ‘preparatoria’, covers grades ten through twelve and is required for university admission. Students choose between academic and technical or vocational tracks based on their interests.
This is the stage where conversations about the future start getting a little more serious, but don’t worry; they don’t need to be overwhelming. If your child plans to attend university in the US or another country later, this is when factors like curriculum and accreditation start to matter more. Schools in Mexico are used to these questions, and you don’t need all the answers right away.
Who runs the education system in Mexico?
Education in Mexico is overseen by the Secretariat of Public Education, or SEP. This body sets the national curriculum and keeps both public and private schools aligned. Even private and international institutions need SEP’s official approval to issue diplomas. This means that your child’s education stays legitimate and transferable throughout your time in Mexico.
The main types of schools you’ll find in Mexico
One of the first things families notice when looking into schools in Mexico is that there isn’t just one “right” option. Instead, there are a few different paths, and which one makes sense really depends on your child, your plans, and what feels manageable for your family right now.
Public schools: simple, free, and fully Spanish
Public schools in Mexico (esecuelas públicas) are funded by the government and follow the national SEP curriculum. There’s no tuition, which makes them an appealing option for many families.
Classes are taught entirely in Spanish, and class sizes can be larger than what some families are used to. That said, public schools offer full cultural immersion and a strong sense of routine. For families planning to stay long-term, or for kids who already speak Spanish or adapt quickly, public school can be a great choice.
Private schools: more flexibility, smaller classes
Private schools charge tuition, but in return often offer smaller class sizes, more resources, and closer communication with teachers. Many private schools are also bilingual, usually teaching in both Spanish and English.
You’ll find a broad mix here, from religious schools to Montessori programs. Tuition varies a lot, so families often spend time comparing options until something feels like the right balance between cost and learning style.
International schools: built for families on the move
International schools are especially common in larger cities and tend to attract expat and binational families. Most teach primarily in English and follow American, British, or International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula.
These schools are usually the most expensive option, but they can make transitions much smoother for children who may move again or apply to universities abroad later. They’re also very accustomed to helping students settle in, as new countries and new classrooms are kind of their specialty.
What education in Mexico actually costs
When it comes to school, having a clear idea of your budget can save a lot of stress later on. Fortunately, education in Mexico is often more affordable than families expect, especially when compared to the costs of education in the US.
Is school in Mexico really free?
Public schools in Mexico don’t charge tuition, from preschool all the way through high school. That alone can feel like a huge relief.
But families are typically responsible for uniforms, school supplies, and small administrative fees, just like in the US. These costs aren’t usually overwhelming, but they do pop up regularly, so it’s worth planning for them instead of being surprised mid-semester.
Private and international school costs
Private schools charge tuition, usually on a monthly basis. Costs vary a lot depending on the city, the school’s reputation, and whether the program is bilingual or specialized.
International schools tend to sit at the higher end of the price range. In addition to tuition, there may be enrollment fees, technology fees, or charges for extracurricular activities. It’s common for schools to offer payment plans, and some provide sibling discounts, which can make the financial burden feel more manageable over time.
Many families coming from the US are surprised to find that private education in Mexico is still more affordable than private schooling back home. This difference is one reason some families choose the country for longer stays or cross-border living.
Language and getting the support your child needs
Language is often one of the first things parents worry about, and it makes sense. School is already a big adjustment without adding a new language into the mix. The good news is that children are much more adaptable than we give them credit for.
Do kids need to speak Spanish right away?
In public schools, classes are taught in Spanish, so students are expected to follow along in the language. That can sound intimidating at first, especially for parents imagining their child sitting in class, trying to keep up.
In practice, younger children learn Spanish quickly through immersion, routines, and peer interaction. Older students may need extra time and support, but schools in Mexico are patient and understanding during the adjustment period. It’s completely normal for conversational Spanish to come first, with academic language following more slowly.
Bilingual and English-language school options
Bilingual schools can be a great middle ground for families who want their child to learn Spanish without compromising their English skills. These schools vary in how they balance languages, so it’s worth asking about how they structure lessons.
International schools usually teach most subjects in English, with Spanish offered as an additional language. These environments can feel more familiar at first, especially for children who’ve only ever studied in English. They also tend to have experience supporting students adjusting to new cultures and school systems.
Support for learning differences and extra help
Every child learns differently, and that doesn’t change just because you’ve crossed a border. Support for learning differences exists in Mexico, although availability varies by school and region.
Public schools may offer basic support services, while private schools often provide more individualized attention or recommend outside specialists for additional help. The most important step is open communication. Talking early and honestly with teachers can help ensure your child gets the support they need.
What the school year and everyday life look like
Once the paperwork is done, school life is what really shapes your family’s routine.
The school calendar and breaks
The school year in Mexico usually runs from late August through early July. Students get a two-week break in December and another similar time off during Easter holidays, known as Semana Santa.
Summer vacation stretches from July through most of August, giving you plenty of time to travel if your family is split between countries.
What a typical school day looks like
Many Mexican schools start between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., depending on the type, and they finish earlier than their counterparts in the US, often wrapping up in the early afternoon. This can come as a surprise, especially if you’re used to full-day schedules.
Homework is usually done at home, and like in the US, you’ll probably spend the afternoons taking your children to extracurricular activities. Some private schools offer extended programs or after-school care, which can be helpful for working parents or families easing into a new routine.
School culture
Uniforms are standard in both public and private schools, and while they can feel unfamiliar at first, many families come to appreciate them. They’ll make your mornings a lot easier, and they generally reduce pressure around clothing, which helps kids feel like they belong right away.
Similar to what you’re probably used to back home, parent involvement is also an important part of academic life. Schools often expect families to attend meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and other events. It can feel like a lot at first, especially in another language, but teachers are generally welcoming and used to working with families from different backgrounds.
How to enroll in a Mexican school
Enrolling your child in school can feel like the most intimidating part of the process. With a bit of preparation, this part is usually much smoother than most families expect.
Start by choosing the right school
Before you start sorting out any paperwork, it helps to narrow down the type of school that fits your family best. Location, language support, class size, and your child’s age are all things you’ll want to think about carefully.
Consider visiting schools in person or reaching out by email or phone. Asking questions, even the ones that feel obvious, is encouraged with such a big move. And popular schools, especially international ones, can fill up quickly, so starting early gives you more options and less pressure.
Gather the paperwork
Most schools will ask for a few standard documents, like a birth certificate, proof of address in Mexico, immunization records, previous school transcripts, and a CURP number for your child.
If your documents are from another country, you’ll usually need to get them apostilled and translated into Spanish. This sounds complicated, but schools are very used to it and can often point you in the right direction if you get stuck.
Final steps and settling in
Once you’ve submitted all the required documents and your child’s enrollment is confirmed, the school will start sharing practical details about start dates, uniforms, and supplies. Some also offer orientation days, which help children feel more comfortable before their first full day of school.
The first few weeks are usually a period of adjustment for everyone, including parents. That’s completely normal. Give it time, keep communication open, and trust that routines will start to feel familiar sooner than you think.
When the unknown starts to feel familiar
Navigating education in Mexico can feel like a big leap at first, but most families settle in well after understanding how the system works. Schools in Mexico are used to welcoming newcomers, especially from North America, and you’ll find options to fit your plans and your child’s needs.
At Remitly, we’re here to support families building lives across borders. You don’t have to have everything figured out straight away—just take it step by step.
FAQs
Is education in Mexico free?
Public education is free, although families typically cover the costs of uniforms and supplies.
Do children need to speak Spanish for school in Mexico?
Spanish is required for public schools, but many private and international schools offer bilingual options.
Are schools in Mexico safe?
Safety varies by region, but schools are generally considered safe, especially private and international institutions.
What is an apostilled document?
An apostille certifies a document for use in another country and is commonly required for birth certificates and school records.
Can a Mexican diploma be used for US university admission?
Yes. Diplomas from accredited Mexican high schools are recognized by universities worldwide.