Montenova International School vs UDEM Unidad Fundadores
Montenova International School and UDEM Unidad Fundadores are both in Monterrey, about 20 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes. Montenova International School also offers Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge A Levels, and UDEM Unidad Fundadores also offers IBCP and Bespoke. Published annual fees are MX$135,462 - 265,253 at Montenova International School and MX$218,400 - 300,000 at UDEM Unidad Fundadores, which puts UDEM Unidad Fundadores roughly 29% higher. Montenova International School takes pupils from 1 to 16, and UDEM Unidad Fundadores from 15 to 18. UDEM Unidad Fundadores is the larger school, with around 523 pupils to Montenova International School's 180.
IB (DP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
180
Pupils
523
Typical class size
Typical class size
25
Typical class size
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Instruction language
Instruction language
English, Spanish
Instruction language
Spanish
Opened
Opened
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Opened
2007
Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
No
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Montenova International School is located in Santa Catarina, Monterrey, Nuevo León. The address is Benito Juárez 58, Mirador de la Huasteca, Sin Nombre de Col, 66354 Santa Catarina, NL. The campus sits in a residential area near Mirador de la Huasteca and features facilities to support holistic learning, including a 24-meter indoor heated swimming pool, two outdoor soccer fields, a regulation-size tennis court, a covered gym with a basketball court, psychomotor areas for the early years, an outdoor cafeteria, and a dedicated cowork space for parents.
Location
Address: 109 Nova Scotia Street, between Terranova Avenue and General Mariano Escobedo Avenue, Joyas de Anáhuac neighborhood, General Escobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico. It is part of the Prepa UDEM system.
Stages
Stages
Preschool (1–6 years), Elementary (6–11 years), Secondary (12–15 years). The school also offers an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), which is currently in development after being recognized as an IB Candidate School.
Stages
Three high school diploma programs: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, Bicultural Diploma, and Multicultural Diploma.
School type
School type
The school is a private international school offering a bilingual curriculum.
School type
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Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Early intervention support is provided for the Preschool stage; a multidisciplinary team supports student well-being and learning.
One-time new-student registration fee (Registro de nuevo alumno) - Preschool (new student): MXN 54,834. - Elementary (new student): MXN 41,430. - Middle School (Grades 6–7) (new student): MXN 28,159.
Yearly registration fee (Inscripción) - Toddlers / Nursery: MXN 16,775 per year. - Pre‑Kinder 1–2 & Kinder: MXN 26,839 per year. - Elementary: MXN 30,194 per year. - Middle School: MXN 31,650 per year.
Tuition — 10‑month instalments (amount per monthly instalment) and equivalent annual total - Toddlers: MXN 13,546.20 per month (10 instalments) — annual total MXN 135,462.00. - Nursery: MXN 14,675.05 per month (10 instalments) — annual total MXN 146,750.50. - Pre‑Kinder 1–2: MXN 17,497.71 per month (10 instalments) — annual total MXN 174,977.10. - Kinder: MXN 18,626.56 per month (10 instalments) — annual total MXN 186,265.60. - Elementary: MXN 18,626.56 per month (10 instalments) — annual total MXN 186,265.60. - Middle School: MXN 26,525.30 per month (10 instalments) — annual total MXN 265,253.00.
Discounts (sibling discounts) - 3rd and 4th child: 25% discount. - 5th child or more: 50% discount.
Technology & educational materials (annual fee) - Preschool: MXN 11,183.00 per year. - Elementary: MXN 13,979.28 per year. - Middle School: MXN 15,900.00 per year.
Complementary fees and optional services - Parents Association fee: MXN 2,000 (complementary fee). - Day Care and extracurricular activities: available on request; prices vary by frequency. - Orphanhood insurance: purchase is strongly recommended; cost to be published separately.
Uniforms - Uniforms are sold through the PESA store (Plaza Fiesta San Agustín). Prices are set by the uniform supplier and are not listed in the fee sheet.
Boarding - No boarding program or boarding fees are listed; the school operates as a day school with after‑school Day Care options.
Refund information - No refund policy or specific refund terms are published in the school's 2026–2027 fee sheet.
Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed as ten monthly instalments over the school year (parents make payment in 10 monthly instalments). The amounts listed above are the per‑instalment figures for the 10‑month plan; the annual totals above equal 10 instalments. - Cafeteria uses a cashless digital application for meal payments.
Fee payment options - The published fee documents and fee sheet state the billing schedule and the cashless cafeteria app but do not specify detailed payment channels (credit card, bank transfer, standing order, etc.) in the fee sheet. For payment channel confirmation, contact the school's admissions or finance office.
Fee details
Application and pre-enrolment fees
- Application / admission (proceso de admisión): MXN 1,200 (non‑refundable). - Preinscription (to reserve a place for first‑time students at Unidad Fundadores): MXN 7,000 (this amount is applied toward the semester payment once enrolment is completed).
Mandatory insurance / coverage
- Cobertura patrimonial (tuition‑coverage insurance): MXN 3,200 per semester; this amount is shown as a separate line item in the enrolment payment. - Accident insurance: an accident insurance that covers medical expenses for incidents on university premises is contracted for the semester; Major Medical insurance is available as an optional purchase at registration.
Tuition fees by program (Unidad Fundadores) — amounts per semester and per academic year
Bachillerato Internacional (Valle Alto y Fundadores) - Pago de contado (single payment at enrolment): Cuota de inscripción MXN 139,500 + Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200 = Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 142,700. Pago total por semestre: MXN 142,700. Pago total aproximado por año (2 semestres): MXN 285,400. - Opción 1 — 50% inscripción + 4 parcialidades: Cuota de inscripción MXN 73,400; Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200; Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 76,600; costo de cada parcialidad MXN 18,350; Pago total por semestre: MXN 150,000. Pago total por año (2 semestres): MXN 300,000. - Opción 2 — 20% inscripción + 4 parcialidades: Cuota de inscripción MXN 29,360; Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200; Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 32,560; costo de cada parcialidad MXN 29,360; Pago total por semestre: MXN 150,000. Pago total por año: MXN 300,000. - Opción Tarjeta (meses sin intereses, solo vía Portal UDEM): Cuota de inscripción MXN 146,800 + Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200 = Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 150,000; Pago total por semestre: MXN 150,000. Pago total por año: MXN 300,000.
Multicultural (Valle Alto y Fundadores) - Pago de contado: Cuota de inscripción MXN 127,000 + Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200 = Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 130,200. Pago total por semestre: MXN 130,200. Pago total por año: MXN 260,400. - Opción 1 — 50% inscripción + 4 parcialidades: Cuota de inscripción MXN 66,800; Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200; Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 70,000; costo de cada parcialidad MXN 16,700; Pago total por semestre: MXN 136,800. Pago total por año: MXN 273,600. - Opción 2 — 20% inscripción + 4 parcialidades: Cuota de inscripción MXN 26,720; Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200; Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 29,920; costo de cada parcialidad MXN 26,720; Pago total por semestre: MXN 136,800. Pago total por año: MXN 273,600. - Opción Tarjeta (meses sin intereses, solo vía Portal UDEM): Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 136,800; Pago total por semestre: MXN 136,800. Pago total por año: MXN 273,600.
Bicultural (Valle Alto y Fundadores) - Pago de contado: Cuota de inscripción MXN 100,700 + Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200 = Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 103,900. Pago total por semestre: MXN 103,900. Pago total por año: MXN 207,800. - Opción 1 — 50% inscripción + 4 parcialidades: Cuota de inscripción MXN 53,000; Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200; Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 56,200; costo de cada parcialidad MXN 13,250; Pago total por semestre: MXN 109,200. Pago total por año: MXN 218,400. - Opción 2 — 20% inscripción + 4 parcialidades: Cuota de inscripción MXN 21,200; Cobertura patrimonial MXN 3,200; Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 24,400; costo de cada parcialidad MXN 21,200; Pago total por semestre: MXN 109,200. Pago total por año: MXN 218,400. - Opción Tarjeta (meses sin intereses, solo vía Portal UDEM): Pago el día de la inscripción MXN 109,200; Pago total por semestre: MXN 109,200. Pago total por año: MXN 218,400.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Portal payment window for Otoño 2026: MXN payments can be made in the Portal UDEM from 01 June to 07 August 2026; start of classes: 03 August 2026; inscription tardía: 03–07 August 2026. - Installment due dates (when using the 4‑parcialidades scheme): 01 September 2026; 01 October 2026; 03 November 2026; 01 December 2026. - Charge for a late installment: MXN 1,300 per overdue parcialidad (subject to change). - Late enrolment fee (inscripción tardía): MXN 4,600 (fixed fee, payable in cash at time of late registration and not covered by scholarships).
Refunds and academic withdrawal (devoluciones / bajas académicas)
- Preinscription refund (first‑time students): the preinscription payment of MXN 7,000 is applied to the semester; if the student withdraws before classes and does not have an offer of financial aid, a 50% retention of the preinscription applies; if there is an offer of financial aid, no refund applies. From the start of classes no refund applies for preinscription in general. - Academic withdrawal (baja académica) policy: if the withdrawal is formalized before the start of classes a retention of 10% is applied on the total cost of the semester; thereafter a retention of 12% is applied for each week of classes elapsed. Retentions are calculated on the semester cost and are applied regardless of scholarships. (Special exception: for Unidad Valle Alto the policy indicates no refund applies in any case.)
Other costs and administrative charges
- Returned check: 20% of the check amount plus any additional charges incurred by the institution. - Charges for specific programs or funding mechanisms: there may be specific charges (for example, fees related to the FFELP credit program for U.S. students). - Purchases of uniforms, branded items or other school supplies are handled through the institutional store (Tienda UDEM) and are charged separately. No boarding / dormitory fees apply for Prepa UDEM units (San Pedro, Valle Alto, Fundadores); Prepa UDEM operates as day‑school units.
Payment methods accepted
- Bank transfer (vía electrónica) through the portals of Banorte, Banamex, BBVA (Bancomer), HSBC, Scotiabank and Santander. - Cash or cheque: payment directly at branches of the banks listed above presenting the deposit slip (cheques must be issued in the name of Universidad de Monterrey and include the student ID and telephone on the back). - Credit / debit card (including months without interest for credit cards): payments through the Portal UDEM (option for months without interest is available only via Portal UDEM).
Contact for billing or payment clarifications
- General switchboard: +52 (81) 8215‑1000; Admisiones: +52 (81) 8215‑1010.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
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Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Montenova International School offers a bilingual international curriculum for Preschool, Primary, and Secondary. Preschool (1–6 years) emphasizes learning through play, inquiry, and hands-on experiences in dedicated classrooms and outdoor spaces. Primary (6–11 years) builds autonomy and critical thinking through an international program with collaborative methodologies, intercultural exchanges, and integrated arts and technology. Secondary (12–15 years) develops discernment and leadership through a multidisciplinary team, with activities such as Model United Nations, Debate and Current Affairs, and digital citizenship. The school is pursuing the IB Primary Years Programme (PEP) and uses Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels in High School to provide internationally recognized credentials.
Curriculum details
The school offers three Bachillerato programs: Bachillerato Internacional, Bachillerato Bicultural, and Bachillerato Multicultural. The International Baccalaureate program has a multicultural focus and high academic rigor, combining sciences and humanities and opening doors to the world's top universities. The Multicultural Bachillerato expands knowledge of other cultures and develops the ability to view the world from different perspectives while strengthening English and, if desired, learning a third language. The Bicultural Bachillerato deepens knowledge and experience of one's own culture and identity with an international mindset. Official recognition of validity of studies is granted for the programs: International Baccalaureate (MCBI-232/2015) by the Secretaría de Educación de Nuevo León; Multicultural (ABM-026/2016); Bicultural (ABB-025/2016).
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
The school prepares students to enter high-quality universities in Mexico and around the world, ensuring they are academically and personally ready for the next step. With the High School program and the incorporation of Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels, students access internationally recognized credentials. We offer personalized vocational guidance, academic support, and ongoing advising to help each student build a strong, competitive profile. Our graduates progress confidently toward prestigious institutions, backed by an education that opens doors and broadens real opportunities for their future.
Higher education progression
Opens doors to top universities worldwide.
Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning
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Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
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Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
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Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
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Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
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History
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Community
Community
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Community
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Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admission step by step
01 ENQUIRE The school invites inquiries via an inquiry form to schedule a personalized chat. The chat will answer questions and present the school. It helps identify the family's needs and enrollment timing. This step initiates the admissions process.
02 VISIT A visit is scheduled. The visit can be in-person or virtual. The campus of interest can be preschool, elementary, or middle school.
03 APPLICATION Submit all the necessary documents to complete the candidate's profile along with the admission application forms online or using a printed form. An appointment is scheduled for the evaluation. For foreign families, please email for the initial contact and include your recommendation from your previous school (filled out by the previous institution and delivered in a sealed envelope).
04 REVIEW We review your application. The admissions committee requires a comprehensive and thorough review of each application. The process ensures careful consideration of each candidate.
Admissions
Steps to enroll for Fall 2027: 1. Start your online admissions process. To begin, register on the Prepa UDEM admissions platform and complete your online application. 1.1 Register on the platform: Create your profile using the student's personal email and define a password. With these details you can log in later to follow your admissions process and check status. 1.2 Complete your information: Within the platform you will be asked to fill in your personal and academic information as well as upload documents, and to select the preparatory program of interest and bachillerato. Attachments include the commitment letter, downloaded as a PDF, signed by hand and scanned in PDF; prior to paying the enrollment, sign and submit the Terms and Conditions of Admission and Permanence of the University of Monterrey in the first month of classes. 1.3 Complete your information: Once all sections are completed you can submit your application to continue with the next stages of the admissions process. Stage of studies: Secondary in progress (August–December): SEP grades for 1st and 2nd year with seal and signature. Secondary in progress (January–August): Grades for 1st and 2nd year and 3rd year grades available to date, in either internal school format or SEP. Secondary completed (August–September): Copy of the secondary certificate; this document must be delivered to CIAA during the first month of classes. Important: Open programs are not accepted. If you are a foreigner you must provide a copy of the FM3 Migratory Form. You have up to 20 business days after the start of classes to deliver an updated birth certificate, secondary certificate and, if applicable, a Validation or Equivalence certificate (these documents must be certified by the Higher Education Department or apostilled by the Government of the state where the studies were completed). The admissions process is subject to changes without prior notice. 2. Take your exams and check your admission status. After submitting your online application and uploading documents, bring a valid official photo ID. A. Academic Aptitude Test (PAA): Evaluates your skills in mathematics and verbal reasoning. Minimum score required: 900 points. Preparation options: UDEM preparation course (2 sessions of 3 hours, focused on verbal and mathematics). B. English placement test: Take the exam on the date and time you select on the platform. Minimum scores by bachillerato: Multicultural: 500; Bicultural: 400. The admissions committee will notify your admission status via email; you can also contact your advisor for more information by clicking here. The link to schedule your PAA, English placement exam and prep sessions will be emailed once your file is complete and document validation is done. Validation may take 5–7 business days; after completion you will receive the link to register. 3. Pay the initial down payment. After admission to Prepa UDEM you must pay MXN 7,000 to confirm enrollment and secure your place. This amount will be deducted from the first semester tuition. Payment options: in person at CIAA with check, debit, or credit card; online payment via the UDEM Portal (access will be sent by email after admission); bank deposit via the deposit slip in the Portal to the designated banks. Important: The seat in Prepa UDEM is limited and subject to availability; the initial admission down payment is non-refundable in case of cancellation. If you have a scholarship, you must cover the initial down payment. If you have questions, see the step-by-step guide to paying the initial down payment. 4. Make the enrollment payment. To complete the process and confirm your enrollment in Prepa UDEM, you must pay the enrollment fee. Payment options: in person at CIAA; online via the Portal; bank deposit via a deposit slip. Beginning in June, each semester includes the charge for Tuition Payment Coverage. Patrimonial Coverage: In case of death of the person responsible for tuition payments, this covers the remaining credits until the end of your studies at the University of Monterrey. Data: General admission provisions: To be considered for admission to Prepa UDEM, comply with the regulations, policies and current admission criteria of the institution. Minimum admissions average: a general average of at least 80 in secondary; calculation uses grades from 1st, 2nd and the 3rd year average at the time of admission. Admission tests: applicants have up to two opportunities to take the PAA and the English placement exam during the admission process. The Admissions Committee decision is final and the evaluation process is conducted privately and confidentially. Contact us: Switchboard: +52 (81) 8215-1000; Admissions: +52 (81) 8215-1010.
Scholarships
Scholarships
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Scholarships
Scholarships and Financial Aid: If you are a dedicated student, study with us. We have scholarship options to help you pursue your studies.