Higher education in Mexico: compulsory, free education and social mobility

Abstract

The Mexican educational system grapples with a variety of core issues in its operation, largely stemming from the social and economic context that has evolved in the country during the latter half of the 20th century and the early decades of the 21st century. Higher education, traditionally a mechanism for social mobility, also reflects these challenges. This article focuses on issues related to coverage, specifically how the increased mandatory nature of certain educational levels has generated greater demand from the corresponding population, particularly in higher education. Lastly, we examine some strategies that may address this demand in the medium term.