Frequently Asked Questions about Study in Mexico City

Requirements

Who can study there?

Marquette students with at least junior standing and strong Spanish language skills (9 credits beyond SPAN 004) may apply to this program.

What are the programs dates?

The fall term runs from late August to early December, while the spring term runs from mid-January to mid-May.

Do I need to know Spanish?

Yes. All courses are taught in Spanish, the national language, and you must have completed 9 credits beyond SPAN 004 or 010 in order to participate in this program.

Will my financial aid transfer? 

Because this is a Marquette-exchange program, most financial aid generally applies. To learn more about how this program will affect your specific financial aid package, please see the Office of Student Financial Aid.

Do I need a visa?  How do I get a visa?

Yes, you will need to apply for your visa 3 months in advance.

Do I need vaccinations before I travel?

Visit the Center for Disease Control's Traveler's Health Web site and/or SOS International for vaccination information.

About the Program

Who will my classmates be?

Your classmates will be from Mexico and the rest of the world.

How many classes are taken per semester, on average?

An average of five classes are taken per semester.

How many credits can I earn?

An average of 15 credits can be earned per semester.

What subjects are offered?

Economics, Business, Philosophy, Anthropology, Psychology, History, Political Science, Theology, Literature, and Communication. A complete list of classes will be available when you apply.

Will my grades transfer? What are passing grades?

Grades do not transfer back to Marquette. Credits will only transfer if your grades meet the passing level, which is the equivalent of a C at Marquette.

Where will I live?

The university provides housing services. They want to ensure that students have a pleasant and memorable time in Mexico City. You will be placed in a Mexican residence. Students are placed two per room with bathroom facilities. An additional fee will be assessed for students arriving before or leaving after housing dates, or for students requesting a single room. Contact Dr. Hosseini for more detailed information.

Is there an orientation?

There is an orientation session provided at the beginning of each term to welcome students, to alert them of safety precautions that need to be observed and to familiarize them with the administrative procedures. Also, workshops of cultural integration are conducted.

About the City

What is public transportation like?

Depending on the distance you cover, most bus rides cost you about 3 pesos or $.30 US cents. Mexico City also has modern subway system, costing only $.15 per ticket.

Because 20 million inhabitants live in Mexico City and the neighboring State of Mexico, public transportation is not necessarily the most comfortable means of transportation, but it is cheap and efficient.

How do I get around?

Mexico City has an inexpensive, easy-to-use metro and an equally cheap and practical bus system plying all the main routes. Cycling is a pleasant way to see the city, especially as the weather is agreeable and the ground flat, but watch out for potholes and loco drivers.

What is the weather like?

Mexico City's weather is mild in winter; dry and hot in April and May. The rainy season starts in late May or June, and lasts through September.  Remember that Mexico City is 7,300 feet above sea level. Mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in the winter.

What is the cost of living compared to the United States?

Based on the cost of living, Mexico City is slightly more expensive than the US. For example, a purchase of $100 in the US would probably cost $112 in Mexico City.  However, as these are estimates, plan wisely and be sure to have extra “emergency cash” available.  As of June 2005 the exchange rate of the US dollar to the Mexican Peso is 1:11.

How can I learn more about the city?

Mexico City is one of the world’s most important capitals.  It is a cosmopolitan city with a history that spans thousands of years.  It is also one of the world’s most interesting and attractive destinations, offering an exciting juxtaposition of the pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern features that make up the Mexico City of today. For more information, please see Fodor's online guide.

Applying

What is the application deadline?

Program-specific applications are due to Dr. Hosseini by March 1 for the fall semester, and October 1 for the spring semester.

How do I apply?

Program-specific applications are available from Dr. Jamshid Hosseini in Straz Hall 101.

Required Materials for Marquette University

See the Applying for Study Abroad Page to see Marquette's requirements.

Marquette Requirements Deadline

October 1 for the spring semester and March 1 for the fall semester, summer term, or academic year.

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