Moving with kids is its own challenge, and school is one of the first questions. Mexico has options for every budget: from free public schools to international schools offering the IB diploma. Here's the 2026 breakdown.
School types and cost
| Type | Cost/year | Language |
|---|---|---|
| Public | free | Spanish |
| Private local | $1,500–$5,000 | Spanish + English |
| International (IB, American) | $6,000–$15,000 | English |
Public schools
Free and open to residents' children. Instruction in Spanish is a great way for younger kids to integrate linguistically. Quality varies by region.
Private and international schools
Merida, Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Mexico City have strong private and international schools with IB, American or British curricula. Instruction in English, small classes, lots of expat kids. Popular with families planning to return or continue studies abroad.
How to enroll
- Prepare documents: apostilled and translated birth certificate, transcripts/grades from the previous school, medical records.
- The child needs a resident card or status tied to the parents.
- International schools require an entrance interview/test, sometimes a waitlist.
Tip
For younger children a Spanish-language local school speeds integration. For teens heading to university abroad, an international school with a recognized diploma is better.
Moving with family? We help with residency for children and choosing a neighborhood near the school — message us.