Universidad Madero
Madero University (UMAD)
Madero University was founded in 1982 in the city of Puebla. Located southeast of Mexico City, Puebla is Mexico’s fourth largest city, with 1.5 million people. Students can explore downtown Puebla, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its architectural and cultural significance. Just outside Puebla, students can explore archaeological sites and view volcanoes.

Minimum Requirements:
3.0 GPA (B average)
Intermediate Spanish language proficiency( = more than two semesters of academic Spanish)
In addition to the minimum student requirements, students must attach the following information:
- Recommendation letter from professor at home institution
- Letter of support from your home institution’s Spanish Department, indicating intermediate level
- Transcript – must include spring grades for fall semester, fall grades for spring semester
- Letter of Purpose explaining personal, academic and cultural reasons for wanting to participate in the exchange program at UMAD and your expectations about the program
- Complete and sign the letter of commitment
- Two photos (1 x 1.5 in)
- Copy of your passport photo page
- Copy of your medical insurance policy with international coverage
Download the International Student Handbook here
Important Dates: Students may apply for one semester or academic year.
Program terms:
| Program Term | Application Deadline |
| January 14th - May 31st, 2013 | October 26th, 2012 |
| August 13th - December 21st, 2013 | May 25th, 2013 |

Around Campus

Courses: Most courses are taught in Spanish, but more than 50 courses are taught in English, and some are taught in German and French. UMAD offers courses in business (management, marketing, accounting and finance), engineering, and the social sciences.
In addition to the above departments, Madero has the following workshops: television, radio, graphic design, fashion design, dance, languages and engineering computer system. Their sports facilities include: track with soccer, basketball and volleyball fields, also a 2000 people capacity gym, where our sports teams have won numerous national and international competitions. UMAD also offers cultural courses such as how to play a guitar, theatre, salsa dance, Polynesian dance, etc.
Students must choose 3 – 5 courses, equaling 24 – 60 Mexican course credits. There is a drop/add period in the first two weeks of class.
Course availability for fall semester will be available on the website at the end of March.
Cultural Experiences: Madero University organizes numerous opportunities to experience the local culture and visit local businesses. Recent opportunities included:
- A company visit throughout the country, $10,000 MXN per week, including transport, accommodation and meals.
- Free visit to local companies, including VW Mexico and Talavera de la Reyna factory
- Free downtown Puebla tour
- Free media interview with TV Azteca
- Viewing Lucha libre (Mexican National Sport), $100 MXN
- International Dinner, where students cook traditional meals from their countries
- Visit to Teotihuacan archaeological site: $350 MXN
Housing and Meals: International students stay in dorms, apartments, or with host families. Dorms and apartment spaces are off-campus and not operated by Madero University. Most students prefer to experience Mexican traditions and culture as a member of the family. Students will make the final decision on where to stay upon arrival and after viewing the available options.
Accommodation costs will vary according to family or apartment space.
Internship Opportunities: Through the Business Liaison and International Affairs Office, Madero University assists in student placement at local companies and organizations. Examples of past student collaborations include: the United Nations, Volkswagen Mexico, Porsche, Peugot, Unilever, Schneider Electronics, Palace Resorts, Courtyard by Marriot, the Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, Inc., Hart and Lyne Limited, teaching at local schools, etc.
If you are interested in completing an internship in Mexico, please speak with your local MISEN representative.
Other links
UMAD Costs
| Costs: | MXN (Mexican Peso) |
US$ (as of Feb 2012)* |
|
| Visa | $17-30; no visa if staying for less than 6 months. | ||
| Visa is required for all students participating in an internship | |||
| Housing & Meals | Homestay without Meals | $3,000/month | $240/month |
| Homestay with Meals | $5,100/month | $400/month | |
| Dormitory or Apartment** | $4,000-$7,000/month | $315 - $500/month | |
| Meals*** | Breakfast $30 – 50 | $2 - $4 | |
| Lunch: $50 – 100 | $4 - $8 | ||
| Dinner: $80 – 120 | $6 - $10 | ||
| Books and School Supplies | $4,000/semester | $315/semester | |
| Estimated personal expenses**** | $1,500/month | $150/month | |
* For current exchange rates, please check XE.com
** Personal expenses will vary greatly according to habits and interests
*** Meals based on campus cafeteria or typical local meals
**** Insurance cost varies based on student’s age
Melanie Overton, Assistant General Secretary