Ultimate School Guide
San Luis Potosí

Starting 2025-2026, the Mexican school year runs from September 1 to mid-July (185 school days). This is a change from the previous August start. Major breaks include: Christmas/New Year (2 weeks Dec-Jan), Semana Santa (Holy Week March/April), and summer vacation (July-August). SEP publishes the official calendar annually.

Most international schools follow the SEP calendar but may have slight variations. Some IB schools align with international calendars. Always confirm the specific calendar with each school.

Yes, most private and international schools accept mid-year enrollment subject to availability. Public schools typically enroll at the beginning of each semester. Contact schools directly to check space in your desired grade level.

International and bilingual schools offer support for non-Spanish speakers, including ESL programs and gradual immersion. Some schools provide intensive Spanish courses before regular enrollment. Children typically achieve conversational fluency within 6-12 months.

Foreign academic documents require: 1) Apostille from the issuing country, 2) Certified Spanish translation by a "perito traductor", 3) Revalidation through SEGE (state education office). Process takes 2-4 weeks and costs approximately $2,000-5,000 MXN total.

CURP (Clave Única de Registro de Población) is Mexico's unique citizen ID. Foreign residents can obtain it through INM after receiving temporary or permanent residency. It's required for school enrollment, banking, and many official processes.

Yes, uniforms are mandatory at all Mexican schools (public and private). Each school has specific uniforms including daily wear, PE clothes, and sometimes formal attire. Costs range from $2,000-6,000 MXN for complete sets. Most schools have designated uniform stores.

Some private schools offer support for learning differences. The USAER program in public schools provides special education support. For significant needs, specialized schools like CAM (Centro de Atención Múltiple) are available. Ask schools about their "inclusión educativa" programs.

Most private schools offer optional bus service ($1,500-3,500 MXN/month) with door-to-door pickup. Public school students typically walk, use public transit, or are driven by parents. Carpool groups (WhatsApp) are common among parents.

Homework varies by school and level. Generally: Primary (1-2 hours daily), Secondary (2-3 hours), Preparatory (3-4 hours). International schools may assign more. Mexican schools often include family-involved projects and presentations.

Yes, parent involvement is encouraged through: Sociedad de Padres de Familia (parent association), volunteer opportunities, school events, parent-teacher conferences (typically quarterly), and classroom support. Private schools often have more structured parent programs.

Preparatory schools (grades 10-12) prepare students for university entrance exams (EXANI). Some schools offer: University pathway programs, SAT/ACT preparation (for US universities), IB Diploma (for international universities), and direct agreements with specific universities.

Homeschooling exists in a legal gray area in Mexico. Education is constitutionally mandatory, but enforcement is limited. Options include: Online schools accredited by SEP, INEA (adult education adapted for children), or international online programs. Annual SEP validation exams may be required.

Mexican school grade placement is based on birth date cutoff (August 31 typically): Preescolar 3: age 3, Primaria 1: age 6, Secundaria 1: age 12, Preparatoria 1: age 15. Foreign students may need placement tests regardless of previous grade level.