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LOSE THE FEAR OF FINANCING, FIDERH REALLY HELPS YOU
Fight for Your Dreams
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.
Why FIDERH: Invest in Your Future
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.
Key Tips for a Successful Application
If you are considering applying, I want to share some practical tips that made my process easier:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
My Conclusion: Investing in Your Future is Betting on Yourself
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
My Christmas Trip to Edinburgh: An Unforgettable Experience in the Scottish Capital
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.
Accommodation: Finding a Place to Rest
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.
Main Tourist Attractions
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.
Final Reflections
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
Making the Most of My Study Experience to Explore the United Kingdom
When I decided to study in the United Kingdom, I knew that this opportunity meant not only a quality education, but also the unique possibility of exploring one of the countries with the greatest historical and cultural richness in Europe. During my stay in the United Kingdom, I have managed to organize my time to visit fascinating cities that have deeply enriched my personal and academic experience.
The Best Times to Travel
My experience has taught me that timing is fundamental to making the most of travels throughout the United Kingdom. The summer months, especially from June to August, became my favorites for traveling, as during these dates, the days are considerably longer, and the weather is warmer. However, I also discovered the special charm of traveling during university vacation periods in spring and autumn. In April and May, the gardens are in full bloom, and August-September offers pleasant temperatures with fewer tourist crowds.
My Best Travel Investment
One of the smartest decisions I made was acquiring a Railcard at the beginning of my stay. This card, which costs £30 annually, provided me with discounts on all my train journeys. Considering that a trip from Aberdeen to London can easily cost £85, the card paid for itself after just three long trips.
The flexibility it gave me was invaluable. I could make spontaneous travel decisions during weekends, knowing that transportation costs would be significantly lower.
Strategic Planning: Following Geography
One of the most costly mistakes I almost made was planning trips without considering the country's geography. Initially, I thought of visiting London, then Edinburgh, then Bath, and finally Liverpool. This route would have meant constantly going back and forth across the map, doubling my transportation costs and travel time.
Instead, I developed a "linear routes" strategy that saved me considerable money and time. For example, one of my most successful routes was: London → Oxford → Bath → Birmingham → York → Edinburgh. This sequence allowed me to explore systematically, visiting each city along the way without backtracking, and also allowed me to gradually observe the cultural and landscape changes of the country, from the cosmopolitan cities of the south to the dramatic Scottish landscapes.
Maximizing Weekends and Holidays
My travel strategy was completely adapted to my academic calendar. Long weekends became perfect opportunities to explore nearby cities. From my base in Aberdeen, I could take full-day trips to Dunnottar Castle or Glasgow in the same day.
For more distant destinations like England, I reserved the longer university holidays. This planning allowed me to completely immerse myself in each region without the pressure of returning quickly to my studies.
Final Reflections
Studying in the United Kingdom gave me much more than an academic education; it offered me an incomparable window to explore centuries of history, from the Roman walls of York to the medieval castles of Dunnottar. Each trip complemented my formal education, providing me with experiences I will always remember.
The key to success was treating these trips not as a distraction from my studies, but as an integral extension of my educational experience. Each city visited added a new dimension to my understanding of British culture, its history, and its regional diversity. At the end of my program, I will not only obtain an academic degree, but also a deep appreciation for the cultural richness of this extraordinary country and memories that I will treasure for life.
- Paola
FROM MEXICO TO ABERDEEN: A JOURNEY OF ACADEMIC, PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL GROWTH
Chasing a Dream
Since childhood, I have been passionate about acquiring new knowledge and, over the years, I discovered Intellectual Property Law as a fascinating field that connects creativity, innovation, and legal frameworks. However, I knew that in order to grow professionally, I needed education of an international standard. That is why I decided to take a major step: leaving my beloved Mexico City to pursue my dream of studying a Master’s in International Intellectual Property and Information Law.
The United Kingdom (UK): More than a Destination, a Life-Changing Experience
I chose the UK because its education system is internationally recognised for its excellence, but also because I wanted to experience studying abroad and immerse myself in a culture and language different from my own. Improving and perfecting my English was a key factor in my decision, as it is the global language of communication, essential for Intellectual Property Law, international business, and collaboration with colleagues worldwide.
Aberdeen: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
The University of Aberdeen (UoA) captured my interest from the very beginning. With over five centuries of history and an outstanding cultural and academic heritage, it offers a cutting-edge master’s programme designed to integrate the essential foundations of law with the latest developments in Intellectual Property, Information Technology, Data Protection, and Privacy.
The teaching staff is truly exceptional. They are academics who not only teach but also lead international research, publish influential books and articles, advise governments, and collaborate with global organisations such as the World Intellectual Property Organization. One of the main reasons I felt inspired to study at UoA was their interdisciplinary project, “Sharing the Benefits of the Ocean”, which explores how marine resources can be utilised sustainably and equitably, combining law and marine biodiscovery chemistry. This kind of initiative highlights the University’s commitment to practical and impactful learning that goes beyond the classroom.
Additionally, the University offers a highly personalised approach to education. From the virtual open day events, which allowed me to explore the campus and community, to the direct contact with lecturers and students, I always received quick and helpful responses. On top of this, the University’s excellent rankings, top 15 in the UK according to the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, top 3 in Scotland according to the Guardian Guide, and number 1 in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland for student satisfaction according to the National Student Survey, confirmed that Aberdeen was the perfect choice for me.
A Whole World on One Campus
One of the greatest gifts of this experience has been the cultural diversity. Studying in Aberdeen means interacting with people not only from the UK but from all over the world: Thailand, India, China, Japan, Poland, Nepal, Ireland, Russia, the United States, Spain, and many more. These classmates, who have undoubtedly become close friends and colleagues, have allowed me to learn first-hand about different traditions, customs, and perspectives.
Having a supportive group of Latin American friends (from Mexico, Paraguay, and Colombia) has also been invaluable. We share challenges, celebrate achievements, and accompany one another throughout this journey, creating a network of friendships that I know will last a lifetime.
Between Northern Lights and Unforgettable Nights
Aberdeen is a safe, welcoming, and vibrant city. It offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful environment ideal for focusing on studies and a lively social life with cultural and social events, bars, clubs, and beaches. The Aberdeen Sports Village is another highlight, offering modern and affordable facilities for swimming, squash, football, pickleball, badminton, and many other sports.
One of the things I love most is that, due to its northern location, Aberdeen offers the unique opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. Moreover, it is one of the safest cities in the UK, having been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag for its safety and security ten years in a row. For me, as a woman, living in a place where I can feel safe even at night is priceless. On top of that, Aberdeen is significantly more affordable than many other UK cities, which allows me to save money for travelling and exploring other incredible parts of Europe.
Challenges Worth Facing and Growing From
Of course, the journey has not been without its challenges. Being far from home and living on the other side of the world has not been easy, and the cold weather has been quite an adjustment for someone from Mexico City. However, with thermal clothing, a good waterproof coat, and proper footwear, I’ve learned to embrace and even enjoy it. While the long, dark winters can be demanding, sharing experiences with friends and gaining new knowledge makes every day worthwhile. On the other hand, Aberdeen’s summer is absolutely magical, the sun rises as early as 2 a.m. and sets after 10 p.m., offering endless daylight and unforgettable memories.
A Special Thanks Across Borders
Finally, I want to dedicate this space to express my deep gratitude to the Across the Pond team and, in particular, to my advisors. Thanks to their expert guidance, the entire process, from selecting and applying to universities, securing financing through FIDERH, to obtaining my student visa, was much smoother and clearer. Their support was key to achieving my goal, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone dreaming of studying in the UK. Thank you for helping me make my dreams come true!
- Paola
My soul in the highlands
I began my journey with a trip full of surprises, delays and a lot of stress. I arrived to Aberdeen (The Silver City!) to a winter where day was night. I stayed in a hotel for a couple of weeks, then I went to Hillhead.
Classes started in February. I arrived with a mind full of (boring) political analysis methodologies, but suddenly new ideas began to emerge. Universes, characters, and plots were born. Furthermore, I shared my creations with friends from other countries and forged an eternal bond of joy and the same desire to write our stories. However, not everything was easy.
Also, I travelled to another places in Alba or Scotland. I learned that the Highlanders are beautiful people, with many stories of sacrifice and joy at the same time. I watched the sun covering the Cairngorm Mountains and Loch Ness (not Nessie, sadly), walked through Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
On that trip, I met friends, new writers, and magical places plenty of history…and stories. But I can't lie. I faced an economical hard scenario. You must know, the cost of living is high, and the weather is a little complex for people from warm lands. Also, there is a growing social tension and there may be fear. Fear? Friends, fear can be fought and overcome. I travelled to the United Kingdom very young, at my 52 years old, with a lot of savings.
I returned to Chile, penniless, unemployed and alone. But....fear? The fear ended when a few months later I found, thanks to the same will with which I went to the United Kingdom, three jobs, in Chile. I know that my country is now complex to rebuild me a professional.
Nevertheless, don't be afraid, save money and keep the desire to live, to know the origin of new universes in your professional life! Cross the pond, you are younger than me and your decisions are infinite.
A hug and my best wishes on your journey. They are going to the United Kingdom or perhaps also to Scotland! In my case I was physically born in Chile, but my soul in the highlands.
Have a good trip and cross the pond, travelers of knowledge.
- Raul
