Universidade Nacional Autonoma de Mexico
The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) is a public university based primarily in Mexico City and generally considered to be the largest one-campus university in the Americas in terms of student population. Founded on 22nd September 1910 as a liberal alternative to the Roman Catholic-sponsored Royal and Pontifical University of Mexico, it is the only university in Mexico with Nobel Prize laureates among its alumni: Alfonso García Robles (Peace), Octavio Paz (Literature), and Mario Molina (Chemistry).
UNAM's autonomy, granted in the 1920s, has given it the freedom to define its own curriculum and manage its own budget without interference from the government. This has had a profound effect on academic life at the university, which some claim boasts academic freedom and independence.
Besides being one of the most recognised universities in Latin America, it is one of the largest and the most artistically detailed. Its main campus is a World Heritage site that was designed by some of Mexico's best-known architects of the 20th century.
Eligibility for King's students
Important: Final decision on students' study abroad application to their host institution rests entirely with that host institution. Students outside of the department of Spanish, Portuguese and Latin American Studies must also meet their departments’ academic requirements to obtain final departmental approval to study abroad. It is usually at least a 60% average prior to departure, however this can vary amongst departments. Students should double check with their Study Abroad Tutor if they are unsure of their academic requirements.
King’s students that wish to study abroad at this institution should check the ‘Undergraduate options by department’ page to see if this institution is indeed an option for them.
Important note
Students who are allocated to UNAM are strongly advised to book direct, return flights to Mexico as they may not be allowed to travel via certain countries (including USA) without a return ticket.
Estimated living costs
Please research the estimated living costs for this country. A reminder that King's students on exchange are not required to pay tuition fees to the host university, but you may incur administrative and/or orientation fees at the host. There may also be mandatory insurance costs, and transcripts may incur a fee.
Please also note that, if required, student visas often require applicants to supply evidence of financial support throughout the duration of the study abroad programme. Sometimes this will mean showing financial evidence for a specific amount, so please pay attention to the advice on this from the host institution.