• Population: 129.2 million The five most populous regions are the State of Mexico (14.4 million), the Federal District (8.7 million), Veracruz (7.1 million), Jalisco (6.7 million) and Puebla (5.4 million).
• Capital City: México City
• Demographics: There are many indigenous populations in México, in addition to Spanish ancestry
• Religion: Majority Catholic (83.9%)
• Type of Government: Federal Republic composed of 31 states and the Federal District
• Currency: Mexican Peso
• Common foods: Tacos al pastor, Chilaquiles, Burritos, Tortas, Elote, Pozole, Mole

Spanish is the most used language (92.7%), but there are 63 other indigenous languages (5.7%), as well as different dialects for each language (such as Mayan, Nahuatl, and others). It is not very common for locals to speak English, but it may be more common in larger cities (i.e. Mexico City).

As a University of Illinois student, you have access to library resources (such as Rosetta Stone and Libguides). You may also want to consider free sources to learn basic phrases, or to refresh your language skills prior to departure.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

U.S. Citizens studying in Mexico less than 180 days do not need a visa. A passport is required. When you enter into Mexico, the FMM form should be checked by the immigration official as "Visitante actividad no remuerada" for a maximum of 180 days. If it is not marked correctly, ask them to correct it.

To read more on passport and visa terminology see the Passports & Visas page of this website.

Phones

• For cell phones, it may be best to buy a sim card from telephone companies such as Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T Unidos.
• You should check with your home country phone provider to make sure your phone unlocked in order to change the SIM card. You can buy a cell phone data plan according to how long you will be there. Otherwise, try to connect to the internet with wifi when possible.
• Make sure you have the Duo Mobile app set up on your phone. If you get a new SIM card, use the passcode options instead of PUSH, or go to UI Verify website to enter your new phone information.

Electricity

• Electrical outlets are the same as in the U.S., so you will not need an adapter.

Banking Tips

• It may be helpful to exchange some dollars to pesos before leaving and to always carry cash with you.
• It is probably best to bring a credit/debit card that you can use at ATMs (though it is important to now that ATMs can charge you withdrawal fees).

Climate

• Mexico has a tropical climate, since it has both a rainy and dry season. There is a little bit of temperature fluctuation from season to season, but it generally does not get as cold as in the Midwest U.S (it generally ranges between 50°F and 90°F throughout the year).

Packing

• Generally, shorts, jeans, and short sleeves are all acceptable to wear.
• It is best to bring sunscreen, but also a raincoat and umbrella so that you are adequately prepared for any fluctuation in weather.
• If you plan to visit any beaches, bring a swimsuit!
• For more packing considerations, view the Packing List (PDF).

Traveling Locally

• Traveling within cities: Metros and Buses
• Traveling around the country: Planes (there is no large train system)

Flights

• Major cities with airports: Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos
• Common domestic airlines: AeroMexico, Interjet, Viva Aerobus, Volaris, TAR Aerolineas

Each student faces different barriers and unique challenges based on their identity. For example, how you identify in the United States may not be how you choose to identify abroad because of the local social culture. We encourage all students to reflect on the different aspects of their identity and consider how they may play a role in their study abroad experience. To help with this thought process: visit the State Department website and look into the Identity & Inclusion resources available on this website.

International Safety and Security provides important wellness tips, along with using your insurance and the emergency phone number. Be sure to become familiar with this website and the resources available to you. Review the U.S. Embassy page and the Department of State website for additional safety resources.

Enroll yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. Registration in STEP will allow you to get alerts on the latest safety and security information. In addition, the information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.