Education: Mexico

Education systems vary greatly from country to country, and sometimes from community to community within the same country.

In Mexico, the school year begins in September. If you are going to request information on fees to send an SNG, it is recommended to do so in June or early July. CI requests that tuition and funds be paid the month before school starts, so they have time to transfer the funds and and the staff has time to contact the family and get everything in place for the child to be enrolled. This is especially important if the child has never attended school before, has been out of school for a year or more, or is starting a new educational chapter (college, vocational, etc.).

Preschooling in Mexico begins at age three and has been compulsory since 2004. Basic schooling is divided into three stages: Primaria is grades one through six, Secundaria is grades seven through nine, and Preparatoria is grades ten through twelve. All three stages are compulsory, however after grade six the student's family must provide textbooks. After successfully completing Preparatoria, a student may enroll at a university or college. Undergraduate programs are typically four years, leading to a Bachelor's Degree (Licenciatura).

A Birth Certificate is required to enroll in school in Mexico. Because many impoverished mothers do not give birth in a hospital, this requirement can be a roadblock for our children. Obtaining the document requires the parents (some of whom are themselves illiterate) to fill out paperwork and  pay fees. If you are concerned that your child is six or older and not attending school, it may be a good idea to contact CI via phone or email to inquire if this requirement is the cause.