This program offers you the opportunity to enroll in Mexico’s most prestigious university, the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM). If you have reached an advanced Spanish language level (completed three of college-level Spanish or the equivalent) you can take regular university courses—taught entirely in Spanish—alongside Mexican students in most academic fields. UNAM is a major public university that enrolls a total of 214,000 undergraduate students. Students from all across Mexico and international students from all over the world travel to Mexico City to study at UNAM.
UNAM is located in the southern region of Mexico City, near the bohemian borough of Coyoacán and the cultural and commercial neighborhood of San Angel. The UNAM campus, called “Ciudad Universitaria” (often abbreviated to CU, pronounced Se uu) is an impressive “city within a city” that spans 2,000 acres in territory and features an ancient volcanic forest and ecological reserves. Mexico City, also known as “El DF” (short for Distrito Federal), is the heart of Mexico. Many of Mexico’s most well-known intellectuals, writers, artists, scientists, and political leaders have studied at UNAM.
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) Exchange
Language Requirement: 3 years
Academic Standing by Program Start: Junior or above
Location: Americas, Mexico
GPA: 3.25
Program Overview
Dates and Deadlines
| Term | Year | Deadline | Arrival Date | Departure Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | 2026 | 02/01/2026 | Early August | Early December |
| Academic Year | 2026-27 | 02/01/2026 | Early August | Early June |
| Spring Semester | 2027 | 02/01/2026 | Late January | Early June |
The application process for this program is competitive: GEO staff will review your application materials, and a decision about your enrollment will not be made until after the application deadline. In some cases, an interview is required. If your program requires an interview, you will be contacted with further details about this process after the application deadline. Early applications are encouraged.
Successful applicants will receive an exchange nomination from GEO. Selection will be based on a holistic review of your application. This includes a review of your GPA, transcripts (including courses taken and in-progress), any additional requirements or prerequisites (see section "Additional Requirements"), and written statements.
Applying for an exchange program involves 2 steps. If you receive a nomination from GEO, you will also need to complete the host university's application, which is administered and reviewed by your host university directly. Instructions will be provided after acceptance by GEO. The host university makes the final decision regarding acceptance into the program.
Academic Details
You can take courses in any academic discipline at UNAM. The academic year is divided into two semesters. Each semester is approximately 18 week long; you can participate in a Fall Semester, Spring Semester, or an entire Academic Year. UNAM is a good option for students who are studying: Spanish Language and Literature, Latin American History, International Studies, Political Science, Ethnic Studies, Planning and Public Policy, Business, Economics, Sociology, Anthropology, Journalism, Education, and the natural sciences. The university is organized around 15 main colleges (also known as facultades) and hundreds of majors (also known as licenciaturas).
Course Equivalencies
UO students: please refer to the UO Course Equivalency Process and the UO Office of the Registrar Course Equivalency Database.
Non-UO students: Actual credit awarded is determined by the relevant department at your university in consultation with the study abroad office. Check with your study abroad advisor for more information.
Additional Requirements
- Three years of college-level Spanish language complete, including University or Oregon SPAN 311 or SPAN 312
- B2 Spanish Language Certification, through online Siele Global Exam (B2 in all 4 abilities - Writing, Reading, Speaking, Listening)
- Relavent coursework on Latin American culture, society, or history is recommended
Housing Description
You will need to arrange housing on your own. UNAM does not have university housing, nor does it manage housing partnerships with host families or apartment complexes. GEO will assist you in your search for housing, but it will be your responsibility to arrange final accommodations. Housing options range from single bedroom apartments to shared apartments to host families. There are several resources available to find housing in Mexico City.
Some of the resources that recent students have used to locate housing include the following:
The international office at UNAM, Dirección General de Cooperación e Internacionalizacióne will also provide orientation and guidance on housing options.