ᐅ High school in Monterrey ᐅ American High School AIM

High School Education in Monterrey

Grades 9 to 12, Campuses in San Pedro and Santa Catarina

At AIM's High School in Monterrey, students aged 15 to 18 receive a transformative, well-rounded education aligned with top international standards. Through exceptional facilities, specialized projects, elective courses, extensive enrichment activities, and expert career and university counselling, our High School education in Santa Catarina equips learners to excel at college and their future careers.

AIM graduates obtain either a Mexican Diploma or a dual American and Mexican High School certification. Our dual diploma option enhances students' competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected world, empowering them with skills, multi-language proficiency and broader perspectives. By offering both pathways, we cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of our students, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in Mexico and internationally.

Why Choose Our High School in Monterrey?

With a long history of success, our High School in Monterrey has prepared generations of learners to achieve excellence in university and various competitive career fields in Mexico and around the world. Choosing AIM's High School ensures a strong foundation for your child's future success.

AIM High School: Innovation Beyond Tradition

While most high school programs in Nuevo León remain conservative in their approach, AIM High School stands out with an education designed for today’s students. With more than 55 years of experience, the American Institute of Monterrey (AIM) delivers outstanding American-style education, combining academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development. Recognized locally and internationally, AIM provides students with a U.S.-accredited program that prepares them to thrive at top universities in Mexico and abroad.

Holistic Development Through Academics, Arts, and Sports

At AIM High school, students grow beyond textbooks with a comprehensive curriculum enriched by extracurricular programs in sports and the arts—open to all high school students. AIM’s APS educational model ensures that knowledge is applied to real-life situations through projects developed in our four academies: Technology & Engineering, Business & Management, Arts & Humanities, and Laboratory & Research. This hands-on approach empowers students to solve complex problems creatively, preparing them for success in both college and professional careers.

Global Opportunities and University Preparation

As an international school with students from almost 20 nationalities, AIM High School fosters global citizenship and cultural diversity. Our college counseling program has guided graduates toward acceptance at over 120 universities worldwide, including Ivy League schools in the United States. By offering the Advanced Placement (AP) Program, AIM ensures that its graduates stand out in their university applications. As a proud member of Inspired Education Group, a network of over 120 premium schools across five continents, AIM connects students to a truly global community. Through this affiliation, they gain access to international exchange experiences, global summer camps, and innovative educational resources that extend learning beyond borders.

Innovative APS Model

Our innovative APS model takes education beyond textbooks, ensuring students apply their skills and knowledge to real-life situations through practical projects based on our unique academies: Technology & Engineering, Business & Management, Arts & Humanities, and Laboratory & Research. As a result, they learn how to address complex challenges and develop creative solutions for real-world problems – skills that will serve them well in college and their careers.

Career Life Education and College Counseling in our High School

Proven Student Success

AIM's exceptional Career Life Education program fully supports students on their path to higher education, guiding them to understand what options best fit their profile and aspirations, and receive bespoke support throughout the application process. As a result of this excellent preparation, they progress to the best universities in Mexico, such as Tec de Monterrey, UdeM, UNAM, UANL, and globally to pursue their greatest ambitions. These include top U.S. colleges, from the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, NYU, to the best art schools like Columbia College of Music or Pratt Institute, and leading universities in Europe, such as Trinity College Dublin, IE or ESADE in Spain, and other top institutions in Germany, France, the Netherlands and more.

Cultivating Talents Beyond the Classroom

At AIM's High School in Santa Catarina, Monterrey students engage in a vibrant school life. From sports to arts and a wide range of co-curricular activities and programs, students have ample opportunities to cultivate their talents and interests. Our sports teams often reach final positions in both basketball and soccer tournaments with other schools in Mexico. In track and field events, our senior athletes achieve gold, silver, and bronze medals.

AIM High School Curriculum in Monterrey

At AIM High School in Monterrey, students receive much more than academic knowledge. In addition to a wide range of core subjects, they gain valuable experiences through Entrepreneurship courses that allow them to explore the four APS Academies and identify areas of interest for college. Electives such as SAT preparation, language certifications, and politics enrich their education, while our University & Career Preparation Program provides guidance and support to thrive in future challenges. For international students, AIM also offers a Language Academy with three levels of English and Spanish

Grade 9 & 10: Broad Foundations and APS Exploration

In Grades 9 and 10, students follow a broad curriculum across the four APS Academies:

Technology & Engineering: system analysis, computational thinking, design technologies, and engineering fields.

Business & Management: marketing, entrepreneurship, finance, and cryptocurrency.

Arts & Humanities: arts, history, culture, and expression.

Laboratory & Research: scientific and data analysis, research, and ethical leadership.

Grade 9 includes core subjects such as Math, Science, English, Social Studies, Spanish, Technology, Art, PE, and a third language (French or German). Enrichment courses include Drama, Public Speaking, Social Emotional Learning, and electives from the four academies.

In Grade 10, the curriculum expands with Mathematics, Chemistry, Research Methodology, Social Sciences, English Language & Composition, Ethics, Career Life Education, Arts, Third Language, and Entrepreneurship exploring the APS Academies. Students also begin their college preparation through Career Life Education and can choose Regular, Honors, or AP-level courses depending on their university goals.

Grade 11 & 12: Specialization and College Preparation

"In Grade 11, students take Mathematics, Biology, Physics, English Language & Composition, Career Life Education, Technology Science, Arts, Health & Wellness, and a Third Language. They also explore Entrepreneurship through APS Academies. In Spanish, they study Mexican History & Literature. At this stage, students form transdisciplinary teams and develop APS projects guided by Teacher Advisors, building professional and collaborative skills to prepare for their Grade 12 Capstone Project.

In Grade 12, students advance to Differential and Integral Calculus, Geography, Ecology, Career Life Education, English Literature & Composition, Technology Science, Arts, Health & Wellness, and Third Language. Entrepreneurship focuses on creating authentic products and services, while Spanish courses include Socioeconomic Structure in Mexico, Universal History, Literature, and Philosophy. The APS Capstone Project is the culmination of their Prepa AIM journey, showcasing skills, creativity, and innovation."

Electives, Clubs, and Enrichment Opportunities in the High School

At AIM High School Preparatory in Santa Catarina, Monterrey, students broaden their learning with a diverse range of electives and clubs. Options include SAT preparation, official French and German certifications, Model United Nations, world politics, and student government. Creative outlets such as the Yearbook Committee and Drama are also available.

Additionally, through our Inspired partner network, AIM offers access to over 40 online elective courses, allowing students to deepen knowledge in areas of personal interest. These experiences not only enhance academic preparation but also build leadership, teamwork, communication, and time management skills, ensuring students are ready for both university and life.

High School Elective Subjects

Elective courses offered at AIM Preparatory School in Santa Catarina, Monterrey are varied and include preparation for the SAT, official certification in French and German, world politics, and student government. A position on the yearbook committee is also available as an elective course. In addition to the other courses mentioned, Electives provide students with valuable leadership, teamwork, time management, and effective communication skills.

High School Subjects

In the years of High School, pupils will study a broad range of subjects within the Mexican and/or American Diploma to provide them with a comprehensive education that will offer a robust foundation for college and any future careers in Mexico or abroad. Spanning different Math, Science, Social Sciences, Languages and Humanities, Wellness, and Fine Arts subjects, alongside an array of Elective courses, Entrepreneurship, the University & Careers program, and our APS academies, students will develop an impressive knowledge base as well as valuable skills, from research to effective communication, creativity, critical thinking, and resilience.

AIM High School Qualifications

High School students can choose from graduating with the Mexican Bachillerato General diploma only, or with a dual Mexican and U.S. High School Diploma, as our curriculum is accredited internationally by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges.

Offering our high school students the possibility to graduate with either the Mexican or the U.S. diploma provides flexibility and choice, allowing them to align their studies with their future aspirations and career paths..

For students planning to pursue higher education in Mexico, the Mexican diploma ensures compliance with local requirements and facilitates access to universities and institutions within the country. On the other hand, the U.S. diploma opens doors to international opportunities, including admission to the best universities in the United States and other countries, as well as recognition of academic achievements on a global scale.

High School Assessment

Each subject is offered on a semester basis, and students will be evaluated for coursework and work habits in each one.
Some subjects are assessed with a number scale (from 1 to 100), whereas others have a letter grading system:

U = Unsatisfactory
NI= Needs Improvement
G = Good
VG= Very Good
E= Excellent

There are no official external exams at the end of High School, but students can receive preparation to take the SATs as an elective course if their preferred university course requires this as an entry requirement.

At AIM, students take MAP® Growth tests from NWEA® until 12th grade. This is a standardized test to map individual growth, providing students, teachers, and parents with valuable information about individual performance in comparison to a global standard. These tests cover Mathematics, Language Usage, Reading, and General Sciences and are adaptable, changing the specific difficulty level depending on correct or incorrect answers - i.e., becoming more difficult with each correct answer. These tests help to pinpoint each student's weaker areas where they need to work more, and stronger areas where they require more challenge to progress further.

English High Schools near Santa Catarina

Languages in Our High School

As students transition to AIM's High School in Santa Catarina, language tuition remains a key element of our educational approach. Our language curriculum takes an even more immersive and comprehensive approach to the English and Spanish languages at this stage, and students can obtain certifications in French or German. This option not only solidifies their language proficiency but also equips them with tangible qualifications that can open doors to various academic and professional opportunities.

Students actively engage with international themes and activities during events like International Week and various cultural celebrations. These experiences, combined with our rigorous language curriculum, equip students with the tools to excel as effective communicators, critical thinkers, and culturally-aware individuals.

High School Facilities

AIM High School in Monterrey is enveloped by a stunning mountain backdrop, offering an inspiring environment for academic growth. Our modern facilities seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings, creating an optimal learning atmosphere for our students to thrive in academics, technology, sports, and the arts.arts.

Modern Classrooms & State-of-the-Art Labs

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, high school classrooms facilitate dynamic learning experiences, encouraging active student participation through engaging and collaborative lessons. In addition, High School students benefit from well-equipped science and technology (robotics) labs that empower them to engage in experiments, research, and innovation.

Fine Arts Center

For artistic expression and creativity, our Fine Arts studios offer ample space for students to develop skills in visual arts, drama, dance, or music. The integration of technology extends to our Fine Arts spaces, enabling students to explore digital creativity and multimedia studies.

Outdoor Learning & Exceptional Sports Facilities

Our sports facilities on the Huasteca Campus are extensive, enabling learners to practice physical activities and cultivate their skills in different sports. Facilities include soccer fields, basketball courts, and a 100m running track for track and field.

Moreover, expansive outdoor spaces offer your child opportunities for relaxation and outdoor learning, promoting well-being alongside a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Specialist High School Teachers

Our High School teachers have advanced degrees and years of experience in their respective fields. They offer a rich blend of subject knowledge and real-world insights that enhance students' learning outcomes. Our specialist teachers know each student individually and cater to their strengths and areas of improvement. They provide personalized guidance, helping students navigate their final school years, as well as their college applications.

Extracurricular Activities at High School

AIM's High School in Monterrey offers a diverse range of co-curricular and extracurricular activities that cater to students' varied interests and enrich their learning experience. Whether they prefer arts, sports, or academic endeavors, our exceptional programs provide a holistic platform for students to explore and develop new passions and skills outside the classroom, fostering their well-rounded development.

Clubs & Programs

Our holistic High School education extends beyond academics to a wide range of activities and co-curricular clubs and programs that enrich our students' education and learning experience. From Community Service to a United Nations Model, Leadership Training, International Week, and the Student Council, our students have a wide range of options to choose from.

Moreover, our outstanding International Program (previously Global APS) offers high school students the opportunity to go on educational and cultural trips, study abroad in another school, and enjoy exclusive Summer Programs. These experiences support their educational growth and broaden their horizons, helping them identify areas that might form the basis of their university course selections.

Community Service
Electives
Model United Nations
Leadership Conference
International Week
Student Council
International Program - Week Without Walls, Summer Programs & Study Abroad

How to Choose the Best High School in Monterrey?

The transition to high school is the first major decision every student must make, and it is often taken lightly. This decision not only determines the continuity of their academic journey but also marks the starting point of their professional development. The choice of high school will go hand in hand with the opportunities and vision that each institution offers. Unfortunately, many schools have focused on creating undifferentiated programs, sticking to academic continuity without looking beyond.

Although the educational offerings in Monterrey are vast, there are key factors to consider that will help make the best decision—factors that reveal which is the best option for each student.

Choosing a high school means choosing a vision for the future. It’s important to take into account all aspects of development that each option offers in order to find the one that best fits individual needs. Elements such as extracurricular programs and international opportunities have become increasingly relevant in today’s world, which looks beyond just academic excellence.

Extracurricular Program in High School

A strong extracurricular program allows students to develop in a well-rounded way, acquiring skills and knowledge that can be applied in different areas of life—both academic and professional.
When choosing a high school, it’s essential to consider the extracurricular options available and how accessible they are. Many institutions limit access to arts or sports to just a few students, instead of supporting the development of every student. The level of personalization offered is also a key factor to consider.

What is the best High School of Monterrey

International Opportunities for High School Students

The technological and internet revolution has opened up, quite literally, a world of opportunities that not many high schools have adapted to.

Study abroad programs are a popular option, but they often lack real value for students. Most of these programs focus on simply experiencing a foreign culture and then returning to complete studies in the home country, instead of fostering real collaboration with different cultures and creating pathways to global institutions.

High school is the final step before college, and it should include options that open the doors to the university of one’s choice—no matter the country it’s located in. Monterrey has become a major hub for international business, especially with the United States due to its geographical position, which opens doors to some of the world’s best universities like MIT or Harvard.

The high school landscape in Monterrey is largely dominated by universities that aim to keep students within their own institutions. While this is a noble goal, it often fails to offer students real international opportunities, which are increasingly important. Programs like the AP Program offer a path to global universities starting from high school.

Advanced Placement Program (AP) – Stellar Program in High School

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program allows academically prepared and motivated students to take college-level courses while still in high school. This program enables students to earn college credits and stand out in applications to prestigious universities in the United States.

Alternatives in Monterrey for High School Students

While the educational landscape in Nuevo León tends to be very conservative in its high school offerings, there are options like the American Institute of Monterrey (AIM) that provide programs tailored to students' current needs.

With an extensive extracurricular program for high school students focused on sports and the arts—open to all students—AIM stands out for its vision of holistic development.

AIM is an international school with students from almost 20 nationalities, aiming to foster development and growth beyond the traditional model. It offers a comprehensive college counseling program that has led to acceptances at over 79 universities around the world, 41 of which are in the United States. By offering the AP Program, AIM High School graduates stand out in their university applications.

With more than 50 years of experience delivering outstanding American-style education in Monterrey, AIM is recognized locally, nationally, and internationally for its academic excellence, educational innovation, and purpose-driven methodologies that maximize student outcomes. AIM’s U.S.-accredited international education offers unparalleled university preparation and career satisfaction. After graduation, most of our High School students go on to attend top universities in Mexico and abroad and achieve success worldwide in respected professional fields.

As part of the Inspired network, AIM’s high school students and teachers enjoy exceptional opportunities for collaboration and personal growth. They engage with peers from around the world through exchange programs and international projects, while benefiting from expert educators and pioneering methodologies supported by advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and virtual reality.

By choosing AIM for your child’s high school, you are giving him an unmatched education with the best global educational practices, the most innovative resources, and unique international experiences.

Discover how AIM's High School in Monterrey can provide a strong foundation for your child's exceptional success in their future endeavors, from college to their personal lives and careers.