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 | 2024 | 2/1/2024 | Early August | Early December |
| Academic Year | 2024-25 | 2/1/2024 | Early August | Early June |
| Spring Semester | 2025 | 6/15/2024 | Late January | Early June |
Applying for an exchange program involves 2 steps. First, you will complete the GEO application process and interview. Selection for this program is based on a review of your statement of purpose, transcripts, recommendations, and completion of the interview process. After your initial application is complete, GEO will review it and select successful candidates for nomination to UNAM. Nominations are made in March for the fall semester and in September for the spring semester of the following year.
After being nominated by GEO, students will receive instructions regarding the secondary application for UNAM. You will be asked to complete an online application and provide documents such as your transcript, copy of passport, letters of recommendations, course selection, etc.
UNAM 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.