I am originally from Mexico City, and for a long time I knew that I wanted to pursue a master’s degree in International Intellectual Property and Information Law in the United Kingdom. My goal was to specialize in an area I am passionate about while also opening doors in a global work environment. That is why I decided to study in the United Kingdom, not only because of the great reputation of its educational system but also because I wanted to experience studying in a country where English is spoken, a language essential for my professional development in Intellectual Property.
I chose the University of Aberdeen because its program is innovative, modern, and very well-structured, in addition to having an excellent faculty team. However, I knew that achieving this dream would require not only dedication and effort but also financial resources. And that’s where I discovered FIDERH, one of the best decisions I could make.
At first, the idea of financing my studies made me somewhat nervous. However, I soon understood that investing in your education is investing in yourself, and that having support like FIDERH makes the process much simpler and more accessible. Without hesitation, I can say that FIDERH is one of the best financing options available in Mexico for those of us who want to study abroad.
The application process is clear and organized: you just need to gather the required documents and meet the established deadlines. Therefore, organization is key to successfully applying for and obtaining this financing. In addition, the amount they finance is significant, covering an important part of tuition and living expenses. In my case, I complemented the financing with my savings, and it was enough to cover my needs during the master’s program. If you need additional funding, there are many other options that can complement it and are also manageable to repay, such as FUNED.
One of the aspects I value most about FIDERH is that, upon finishing your studies, it grants a one-year grace period before you start payments. This allows you to find employment calmly and plan your personal finances. Furthermore, once you begin repayment, the term to settle the loan is up to 10 years, which allows you to manage the monthly payments calmly and without unnecessary pressure. Even the interest rate for late payments is low, providing even more flexibility and security. Of course, you can also pay it off much earlier than 10 years if you prefer.
Another great advantage of FIDERH is that many universities, such as the University of Aberdeen, have agreements with Mexico and offer up to a 20% discount on tuition if you have this financing. This represents a considerable saving and makes the option even more attractive and viable.
You should see your master’s degree as a long-term investment. In my case, shortly after completing my studies, I began receiving job offers from firms specializing in Intellectual Property in Mexico through LinkedIn. Having a degree from a recognized foreign university greatly increases your professional projection, and with a good position, it becomes much easier to repay the financing in a short time.
If you are considering applying, I want to share some practical tips that made my process easier:
Certificate of No Liens: This can be a complicated process and may take some time depending on the region where the property is located. In my case, I delegated it to a notary to speed it up since it is not very expensive. It is important to request the physical version, as FIDERH does not accept digital certificates due to the lack of a handwritten signature.
Credit Bureau Report: This document is essential and must be submitted for both you and your guarantor. In theory, it is easy to process, but in my case, I faced several issues. I had moved, and although I had updated my information at the bank, the institution did not reflect it correctly, so the report could not be generated. Additionally, when I tried to obtain my guarantor’s report, an additional problem arose: their name and compound surname matched those of their child, and the information was mixed in the system, preventing the correct report. This taught me that you must start this process well in advance, check that all personal information is correct, and if necessary, go directly to the institutions to resolve any errors.
Unconditional Letter of Acceptance from the University: FIDERH requires an unconditional acceptance letter. Therefore, it is important to apply first to the universities of your interest and meet their requirements, such as the IELTS exam, well in advance.
Apply in the First Call: There are fewer applicants, which increases your chances of being approved, and it will allow you to calmly plan other procedures, such as finding accommodation, knowing that you already have this financial support.
Talk to Your Guarantor from the Start: Explain the benefits of the financing and, very importantly, clarify that the property presented as collateral is not encumbered, which provides peace of mind.
Use the Support of Across the Pond: This help was essential for completing all my procedures with FIDERH. They are experts in the process, always have the best advice, and are willing to resolve any questions or difficulties that arise. They are very attentive, kind, and capable professionals, true dream enablers, who make the entire process much clearer and more manageable.
Thanks to FIDERH and the support I received from my advisors at Across the Pond, I was able to take the most important step of my career: studying my master’s at the University of Aberdeen. While it involves preparation, procedures, and organization, it is completely worth it. Do not be afraid to finance your education; with FIDERH, you receive real support, extended terms, and accessible conditions, unlike many other financing options with less favorable conditions for the beneficiary, such as excessively high interest rates or very short repayment periods.
My recommendation is clear: lose the fear of financing with FIDERH. If you work with discipline, stay informed, and seize opportunities, this support will become the engine you need to achieve your academic and professional goals and take a huge leap forward in your development.
- Paola
Hello! My name is Eduardo Flores Olayo, originally from Tlaxcala, Mexico, and I am an English teacher at the secondary school level. The purpose of this text is to invite you to study at the University of Essex, located in Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom. Here are five reasons why I encourage you to study at this incredible university:
From the moment I began the application process, the University of Essex’s Latin America recruitment officer invited me to a meeting to explain the benefits of studying at the university, as well as the available scholarships. They also connected me with the University of Essex Mexican Society, which invited me to a talk to learn about the facilities, societies, programs, and other aspects related to studying at the university.
This process stood out to me because it makes you feel part of the university from the very first meeting, something I had rarely seen before. The opportunity to connect with former students who support you during the process is truly invaluable.
The university offers a wide variety of societies and cultural groups that you can join based on your interests. In my case, I participated in the chess, film, Catholic, travel, Spanish, Latin, and astronomy societies. However, there are many other groups you can join, which is incredibly helpful, especially if you’re introverted. These societies allow you to meet people with similar interests, helping you build friendships and connections with individuals of different ages, religions, and nationalities.
The Colchester campus is unique, not only for its modern facilities but also because it is surrounded by Wivenhoe Park, a beautiful park filled with trees and greenery that creates a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. The campus provides ideal landscapes for studying or taking photos for social media.
The libraries and other areas are equipped with computers, making it easy to work on assignments, essays, or research, ensuring you can complete your tasks successfully.
Most international students share the experience of being far from home and their culture, but what makes this university special is the opportunity to form unique friendships and connections with students from around the world. Personally, I made friends from countries such as Indonesia, Portugal, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Poland, England, Pakistan, Syria, and more. This diversity helps you learn to be tolerant and respectful of different cultures and beliefs.
After completing your studies, you have the chance to visit your friends in their home countries, and they can visit you, allowing you to share Mexican culture with others.
In the master’s program, I am studying (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), the professors are exceptional, not only for their teaching methods but also because they have published numerous articles, books, and research papers. This inspires you to learn more and dive deeper into the subject matter of the program.
Additionally, you are assigned an academic tutor who will support you throughout your time at the university, ensuring you have guidance whenever you need it.
- Eduardo
For Christmas I decided to escape from the routine of Aberdeen to explore Edinburgh and its Christmas market for 3 days. What began as a spontaneous idea became a very beautiful trip. The cobblestone streets, its medieval architecture, the Christmas decorations and its vibrant culture, Edinburgh captivated me from the first moment.
To get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh I had two main options: train and bus. After comparing prices and schedules, I opted for the train, which turned out to be an excellent decision. The journey lasted approximately 3 hours, and the cost of the round-trip ticket was £45 with the rail card (a card that gives you discounts on train tickets). The bus alternative would have been more economical (around £25 round trip), but with a duration of almost 4 hours, I preferred the comfort and speed of the train.
One of my biggest concerns was the cost of accommodation, since Edinburgh has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the United Kingdom. After searching various options, I found a hostel in the historic center for £53 per night in a shared room. For those who prefer more privacy, hotels located in the historic center in the new part of the city ranged between £85-£120 per night, while hotel chains further from the center offered rates from £60.
I decided to stay at the Kick Ass hostel, located just five minutes' walk from Edinburgh Castle. Although the facilities were basic, the location was unbeatable and the atmosphere was very welcoming, with tourists from all over the world sharing experiences in the common room.
Among the main attractions I visited, my first stop was the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The entrance cost £19.50, but it was worth every penny. Walking through its ancient walls transported me centuries back. The panoramic view of the city from the ramparts is simply spectacular, especially at sunset when the city lights began to shine.
My second stop was the famous Victoria Street, known worldwide as the inspiration for Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. Walking down this cobblestone and winding street was like entering a magical world. The colorful shops with their medieval facades and boutique stores created a unique atmosphere. I spent more than an hour exploring the shops, especially those dedicated to Harry Potter items and Scottish souvenirs.
After that I walked the famous Royal Mile. This historic street, which connects the castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is full of souvenir shops and traditional pubs, which offer an excellent opportunity to experience the Scottish atmosphere.
The Christmas market was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places of the trip. This market, considered one of the best in the United Kingdom, extended like a labyrinth of small wooden houses decorated with bright lights and Christmas decorations. The aroma of spiced mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and traditional Scottish sweets could be felt in every corner. I spent hours exploring the stalls, where I found everything from local crafts to culinary delights. I tried the famous Scottish shortbread, bought some unique handmade gifts and enjoyed a cup of mulled wine that helped me combat the winter cold.
Dean Village also turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises of my trip. This small historic village, located just a few minutes from the city center, seems taken directly from a medieval movie. You can see several stone houses that are located next to a river which makes the landscape look more beautiful.
Edinburgh exceeded all my expectations. The Christmas atmosphere and Scottish hospitality were felt in every corner of the city. This trip reminded me why I love living in Scotland. Having access to gems like Edinburgh just a train ride away is a privilege I don't take for granted.
Edinburgh is not just a city to visit; it's an experience to live, a history lesson walking through its streets, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes Scotland.
- Paola
The United Kingdom appealed to me for its cultural richness, language and long musical tradition. As a musician, I regarded it as a cradle for music in its many forms; its landscapes and architecture also informed my decision.
The Master’s was demanding and highly rewarding. The programme was largely self-directed, focused on extensive reading, critical analysis and termly project work, culminating in a dissertation that required sustained rigour. The modules were varied and enabled a consistent connection between theory and practice.
On a personal level the experience was transformative. I formed friendships with British and Latin American peers, and I was struck by the activity of the Chinese community within the musical scene. Adapting to the winter climate proved challenging—limited daylight in late December and early January coincided with final rehearsals—but the arrival of spring and the long summer days revitalised both mood and practice.
Participation in ensembles and musical groups was crucial to my integration and provided authentic opportunities to understand local customs. I found people courteous and well organised; punctuality and planning were evident even in leisure. I was fortunate to be hosted by British families on a few occasions through musical engagements, which offered direct insight into domestic life, and the pub served as an important social venue for building connections.
I leave the programme with academic, personal and professional gains. Academically, wide and critical reading became essential for framing meaningful questions and sustaining arguments. Personally, I developed stronger skills in organisation, planning and time management, and learned to balance academic and work commitments with personal wellbeing; I came to appreciate that adequate rest is essential for sustained productivity.
Professionally, the experience underlined the value of continuous development and practical exposure. Teaching short courses provided firsthand pedagogical experience, and I was impressed by the level of professionalisation in the UK, where many roles require formal certifications.
I would have benefited from clearer information beforehand on UK workplace dynamics and professional expectations, as well as practical guidance on adapting to the climate and its impact on daily routines.
- José Alberto
I had always dreamed of pursuing an academic career, and studying abroad felt like the right path. The University of Edinburgh caught my attention because it was the first in the world to offer a programme in GIS (Geographical Information Science). On top of its academic reputation, I knew that living in Scotland would give me a new perspective, the chance to meet people from all over the world, and the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.
The application process felt much less overwhelming thanks to the Across the Pond team, who guided me through every step. From preparing documents to answering my endless questions, their support made the journey smoother and more confident. I would recommend their help to anyone who is thinking about applying.
If you do not want the stress of searching for private housing, I strongly recommend applying through the university accommodation system. You can select three preferences, although it is common to be assigned somewhere different (as I learned from classmates). I felt lucky to end up close to the city centre, just a 20 minute walk from the central campus. Even better, I was matched with three amazing flatmates from China, Ireland and the United States. Living together with people from different cultures turned into one of the highlights of my experience.
Beyond accommodation, one of the things I appreciated most was the variety of study spaces. The main library is impressive, but the University is spread throughout the city, which means you can also study in different school buildings. This makes it easy to change your environment and enjoy different corners of Edinburgh while working.
Before arriving, I had never spoken English in daily life, only reading and vocabulary. A year before applying, I focused on preparing my verbal skills. It was intimidating at first, but I can honestly say you feel completely welcome here, and little by little, fluency comes naturally. If you are in a similar position, my advice is: take the leap.
The first time I arrived in Edinburgh, I felt like I had stepped into another world. The cobblestones, medieval buildings and the ever present mist gave the city a unique atmosphere, as if I was in a film set in the past. I have visited London and even Copenhagen, but Edinburgh has a special charm that I have not found elsewhere.
One thing to keep in mind is the lack of sunlight in winter, especially in January and February. My best advice: bring vitamin D supplements. It really makes a difference.
My GIS programme goes far beyond lectures. It includes a group project spanning three courses, designed to simulate working in a professional setting. One of the highlights was a five-day field trip to the Scottish Highlands, where we put our knowledge into practice.
Be prepared, as the programme is very intense. In many countries outside the UK, master’s degrees usually last two years, but here the programme is completed in just one, which means the workload is concentrated. It is challenging, but at the same time extremely rewarding.
Another great advantage is that the programme offers many networking opportunities throughout the year. You may collaborate with a researcher or lecturer for your dissertation, or work with an external professional or company related to your topic. These connections can open doors for future jobs and research opportunities.
Personally, I am passionate about the intersection of health and geography, and I was thrilled to discover that Edinburgh has a world-renowned research group in this field. These experiences have only reinforced my dream of continuing in academia.
The University makes it easy to meet people, especially during Welcome Week. In my case, joining the Tennis Club was the best decision. I made great friends while staying active. I also bonded with classmates over group projects and casual outings. Between accommodation, sports and classes, you will never feel isolated if you are open to trying new activities.
Edinburgh is also great to explore by bicycle. There are plenty of second hand options from students leaving the city, and the cycle paths take you not only around the city but also into areas of almost untouched nature. I even bought a second hand GoPro to film my rides, something I will treasure forever.
Studying in Edinburgh has been transformative. From overcoming the language barrier to making lifelong friends and finding my academic path, I feel better prepared than ever to pursue my career. Scotland now feels like a second home, and I am excited to continue this journey here.
- Felipe
I’ve absolutely loved exploring London during my studies. This city has so much to offer! From events and live music to pubs, nightlife, food, and even just relaxing in the parks, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of my top picks:
Two of my favourite pubs are along the River Thames, and the views are absolutely gorgeous!
As a Norwegian, I had to dedicate a section to Scandinavian food. It’s always nice to get a little taste of home!
I love chilling in these parks with a book or having a picnic and playing games with friends:
I hope you get the chance to check out some of these places and enjoy my top picks in London!
- Erica
Hello, I’m Diana, a nearly 30-year-old Mexican woman about to finish her master’s degree at the University of Sussex in England. When I decided to pursue a master’s degree, I had no idea where or what exactly I wanted to do; I just knew that I wanted to expand my academic and professional experience and seek something different that would give me perspective.
After talking to as many people as I could, I realised that in the end it was about doing something that would excite me, inspire me, and push me to feed my curiosity.
Doing a postgraduate degree abroad was a long journey that began long before I even applied. Finding at least an idea of which path to follow led me into a spiral of worry and anguish. What did I want to do? Where should I start? What are my real options? And finally, where am I going to get the money to do it?! The accompaniment of Across the Pond and the certainties I gained with FIDERH funding allowed me to see the idea of my life project as a real and achievable opportunity.
I had never studied abroad, nor had I even visited England at that time. During my applications, I realised EVERYTHING I needed to cover, budget, scholarships, accommodation. That’s how I came to Across the Pond. With the help of my advisor, I was able to find a clear guide to cover all the requirements I needed. She gave me the calm I needed by answering all the questions I had about the processes I had to face.
From Across the Pond, I knew and understood more about FIDERH, because although I was familiar with the fund, considering financing intimidated me. With the information my advisor provided, I understood how friendly this fund designed for students is, especially in its payment processes (because, of course, I thought, 'How am I going to pay for this?').
This year has been a challenging experience, yet one that has filled me with a sense of satisfaction. It allowed me to recognise myself and everything I add to the spaces in which I develop. Imposter syndrome has never been more real, but today I can look at my experience with admiration, which was more than just an academic goal. Having the support of FIDERH allowed me to achieve a level of self-validation and satisfaction that I had not previously felt, as I realised I had managed to bring myself to this point. I satisfied my desire to develop in a completely different environment. Sharing and learning from people with experience in various fields and professions gave me the perspective I was looking for.
I would definitely do it again.
- Diana
I decided to pursue an MA in Creative Writing because I have always been passionate about storytelling, and the UK felt like the perfect place to do so. Many universities there have strong programs in this field, and I was eager not only to learn from them but also to live abroad, meet people from different cultures, and experience a new academic environment. I chose the University of Derby because its program emphasized employability, with modules such as Working as a Writer, which gave me practical tools for considering writing as a profession.
I lived in Agard Court, one of the university halls, which gave me the chance to meet both UK and international students. They quickly became friends, many of whom I’m still in touch with, and helped me adapt to cultural differences. Derby itself was a wonderful place to live: it’s a small, charming, multicultural city where I felt safe and inspired. I used to write in cafés in the city centre and loved walking in Darley Park, which is simply beautiful.
Of course, adapting was not always easy. As a Mexican student, even though I already spoke English, writing in a second language came with its challenges. I had learned mostly the US system, so I had to adjust to British spelling and academic conventions. For example, reflective essays were something new to me, since in Mexico academic writing tends to focus more on facts than on one’s own ideas. At first it was difficult, but over time I came to appreciate how much value was placed on originality and critical thinking. Having friends to guide me through cultural and linguistic details helped as well. For instance, learning not to use ‘trash’ but ‘bin,’ and to always boil water in a kettle, never in the microwave!
The course itself was a dream fulfilled. The MA gave me the chance to share my writing with peers in workshops, receive feedback from professors with real-world recognition, and grow more confident in my own voice. These discussions and exchanges made me realize what kind of stories I want to tell, and that writing is not just a solitary pursuit but also an opportunity for dialogue.
Student life was full of small but meaningful moments. I spent most of my free time with friends I met in my accommodation and classes. We went to pubs, the cinema, or even to cafés where we could paint pottery together. It was a balance between studying, writing, and simply enjoying the experience of living abroad.
Looking back, I am grateful for everything I learned, not just academically but also personally. I discovered new ways of thinking and writing, built friendships across cultures, and proved to myself that I could adapt to a different system. It was challenging at times, but it was also inspiring, and it made me more certain than ever that writing is the path I want to pursue.
- Jimena
While I was looking for master’s options in Mexico and already feeling the academic cycle slipping away, I came across an ad from Across the Pond on social media: “Would you like to study in the UK with support from CONACYT / FUNED?” It was as if the algorithm knew exactly what I needed to see. Even though I thought it was already too late to apply, that question sparked something in me: what if it IS possible?
What attracted me most about the UK was the one-year programme duration, the flexibility, and the professional focus of its universities. Coming from a musical background and looking to move into cultural management, the UK seemed like the perfect bridge to transform my career.
After reviewing many options, De Montfort University (DMU) was the one that truly convinced me. Their MA in Cultural Events Management didn’t just focus on the artistic side, but also on planning, leadership, and real-world festival management. In no time, I received an offer letter and realised it was all becoming real.
DMU offers a diverse, inclusive environment, approachable lecturers, and countless extracurricular opportunities. From day one, I felt that my voice mattered, even when I was still insecure about my English.
Applying to FIDERH and FUNED was a major and challenging step. The paperwork, the essays, the decisions... at times, I felt overwhelmed. But having my family’s support and the guidance from Across the Pond was key. They helped me stay focused and reminded me that I wasn’t alone.
Although I was afraid of taking on debt, I came to understand that FIDERH and FUNED weren’t just loans – they were strategic tools that allowed me to study without as much financial pressure. I’m currently in the grace period, preparing to take on that responsibility with much more clarity and confidence.
For my first 10 months, I lived in student accommodation, and I totally recommend it for anyone arriving for the first time. The facilities were comfortable, the space wasn’t huge but definitely enough, and the reception and maintenance teams were always ready to help with any issue.
Now I live in a house, but starting in student accommodation made everything simpler. My advice: research hidden costs if you’re renting independently. Sometimes the simplest option is what gives you the most peace of mind, especially in your first year.
Yes, studying in English was tough. At first, I felt insecure about speaking, writing essays, or participating in seminars. But the university always provided support, patience, and resources to help us improve. Nobody judged our mistakes – instead, they valued the effort to grow.
What helped me most was networking, not being afraid to speak up, and asking for corrections. The language stopped being a barrier when I started treating it as a tool that evolves with you.
Leicester isn’t London, but it has everything you need: diversity, culture, peace, and opportunities. It’s a city where you can focus without constant distractions. It has creative spaces, museums, festivals, and a rich multicultural atmosphere.
If your priority is to study while still having access to art and culture, I definitely recommend Leicester.
In my free time, I enjoy going to the cinema, visiting museums, attending concerts, bars, and trying new food. I also volunteered at festivals, joined the Latin Society and the Radio Society at DMU, and attended many extracurricular workshops and talks offered by the university to train future cultural leaders.
Making friends isn’t always easy at first. But once you connect with someone, it’s for life. I’ve made friends from Mexico, Latin America, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Malaysia, Brazil, and more.
If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be this: learn how to really use a planner.
Not just to write down appointments, but as a structure for your personal goals, time, habits, rest and progress. Everything here is scheduled in advance, via email, and organised. Starting to use a proper planner before coming to the UK will help you adapt and make the most of your time.
(Not even joking: sometimes it feels like you need to schedule being sick two weeks in advance!)
Thanks to their guidance and support – especially from my advisors – I was able to understand the application process, clear my doubts, structure my essays and documents better, and never feel alone. Having that kind of free, trustworthy support made a huge difference.
Believe me, I’ve been there too. Full of questions, insecurities, fear of rejection, fear of the language, money, and the change. But what I discovered is that the UK is not an impossible dream. With the right strategy, support, networks and clarity of purpose, it IS possible.
You’re closer than you think. All that’s left is for you to take the first step.
- Javier
The United Kingdom had always attracted me for its rich history, academic excellence, and global reputation. The prospect of pursuing a master’s degree in England seemed highly enriching, both professionally and culturally. In addition, the University of Leeds —the institution I applied to— is renowned for its diversity of people and cultures. I knew that the friendships and professional connections I would find there would provide me with a global outlook and a valuable network.
To achieve my goal of studying at this university, I turned to different scholarships and funding opportunities such as FIDERH, SECIHTI, and excellence scholarships awarded by the university itself. Each of these sources of support was essential, and the guidance from Across the Pond proved invaluable in helping me identify and secure them.
My advice for anyone who shares the goal of pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK is simple: get informed, stay organised, and take it one step at a time. The opportunities to achieve your goals exist; it is a matter of finding them and daring to pursue them. The process can be competitive, but do not be afraid of rejection or of trying again. Remember that there are people with experience who are willing to guide and support you along the way to help you achieve the best results. By following their advice and ticking off your checklist step by step, you will find yourself living your goal sooner than you think.
- Ana
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