How to Study Abroad in Costa Rica

There is no better place to travel right now than Costa Rica! Studying abroad in this one-of-a-kind country in Latin America will be the best decision you ever make. Ticos, the term used by Costa Ricans to describe themselves, are typically laid back, easygoing, and respectful of nature and other people. Their approach to life is encapsulated in the common Costa Rican phrase Pura Vida, or pure life, which will most likely become your own personal mantra.

While discovering how to study abroad in Costa Rica, you’ll also uncover the many things that make it such a special place, from its emphasis on environmental conservation to the importance of coffee and chocolate to its economy. Studying abroad in Costa Rica will introduce you to new perspectives, provide opportunities for adventure, and connect you with a global network!

Does Costa Rica have student visa requirements?

Study abroad with a healthy dose of adventure…that’s what you’ll find in Costa Rica!

While the regulations around visas vary by country, Costa Rica student visa requirements are relatively simple. You’re probably asking yourself, do I need a visa to study abroad in Costa Rica?

Most likely, you’ll be able to enter Costa Rica on a tourist visa, which you’ll receive upon entry into the country and which is valid for 90 days. Short-term study abroad programs do not require any additional visa if you’re able to enter on the 90-day tourist visa.

If you plan to study at a high school or university in Costa Rica for a period longer than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a student visa either before or after entry into the country. Student visa requirements in Costa Rica will include items like your passport number, location of residence, a completed application form, a certification from your educational institution, birth certificate, and passport-sized photos.

Everything you submit will have to be translated into Spanish. Your program provider or educational institution should be able to help with questions related to needing a visa to study abroad in Costa Rica.

4 other requirements to study abroad in Costa Rica

Also required: Curiosity about the wonders of the world around you.

There are a few other common requirements to study abroad in Costa Rica to keep in mind as you’re browsing programs:

• GPA: When applying for programs, keep in mind that application requirements may include a minimum GPA, indicating that you do well in school and will benefit from an international study experience.
• Language: Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, and you may need some basic knowledge to qualify for certain programs. Have you taken a couple of Spanish classes in high school? That should be sufficient to qualify you for the majority of programs offered. Costa Ricans will appreciate you making an effort to communicate with them in their native language!
• Budget: Traveling abroad on a study abroad experience to Costa Rica will require money for program costs, accommodation, meals, and travel. Scholarships or financial aid may be available depending on your program. It’s usually awarded to early applicants, so it’s important to get started well in advance of your planned travel!
• Time: Whether you’re excited to jump into a Costa Rican study abroad experience during your current school year, opting for a summer program, or looking for more of a gap year, it’s important to note the time it will take to apply to programs, prepare for your trip, and participate. While some programs may offer credits, you’ll want to be sure to check in with your advisor, counselor, parents, and/or others who should know about your plans!

How to study abroad in Costa Rica

So, you’ve explored some requirements and are now wondering how to study abroad in Costa Rica—look no further!

1. Determine the time and duration of your trip

Are you looking for a two-week adventure experience in the cloud forests of Monteverde? Or a month-long exchange at a high school in La Fortuna? Setting some goals may help you determine how long you’d like your experience to be, while external factors may influence when you can make it work.

You’ll also want to consider popular times to travel to Costa Rica: December through April is the dry season while May through November is the wet or “green” season. Most tourists choose the dry season to visit as there is less rainfall, but many claim the wet season is the best time of year to plan a trip!

2. Select a program

No matter the program you choose, learning how to study abroad in Costa Rica will change your life.

You may want to choose a couple of top programs and do so while determining the time and duration of your trip. Programs don’t necessarily run year-round, so if you fall in love with one, you may need to adjust the time of year or how long you go for. There are many program options to choose from, so focus on what you’d like to get out of your study abroad experience.

Are you looking for new life skills? To improve your Spanish? A tropical adventure? Determine what is most important to you and go from there!

3. Submit your application

Gather the materials you will need to apply (passport, recommendation letter, parental permission, etc.) and get started. Application requirements vary, but once you get started, you’ll have help from your program provider of choice. They want to help you start your journey!

Make sure you are aware of any application deadlines and are communicating with those who may need to be aware of your plans. That includes your parents, teachers, school administration, etc.

4. Prepare for travel

You’ve been accepted and have told your friends to expect some stellar social media content…what’s next? The most important next steps are to book your travel and follow up on any necessary visa requirements, finalize your packing list, secure accommodation if not provided, and stick to your budget.

You can also check out some books or podcasts about Costa Rica, brush up on your Spanish, and create a list of the places you’d like to check out or things you’d like to experience while there.

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 study abroad programs in Costa Rica—it’s free!

How much does it cost to study abroad in Costa Rica?

Save up so you can check out a place with rich culture and amazing nature.

Costa Rica is an affordable country and the exchange rate will probably be in your favor. However, there are other factors to consider when looking at how much it costs to study abroad in Costa Rica:

• Program fee: The cost of your program will vary depending on provider and duration, but you can expect to pay around $2,000 for a couple of weeks to up to $13,000 for a full semester.
• Travel costs: Most likely, you will need to cover all travel to Costa Rica, even if your provider does the booking for you. Round trip flights to Costa Rica are a few hundred dollars depending on time of year and when you purchase.
• Room and board: If your accommodation is not covered, you’ll need to plan for those costs. Even if it is included in your program fee, you’ll want to budget for any additional meals, souvenirs, special trips, etc.

If you’re concerned about how much it costs to study abroad in Costa Rica, consider programs that offer scholarships and aid, or start a fundraiser for your experience. The many benefits of studying abroad in Costa Rica will be worth putting in the extra effort to make it happen. Your program provider may also be able to provide you with tips and tricks for fundraising!

3 study abroad programs in Costa Rica to consider

1. Arcos Learning Abroad in Heredia, Costa Rica

• Why? With an all-inclusive study abroad program, Arcos Learning Abroad provides an opportunity to experience all that Costa Rica has to offer. You’ll be fully immersed in Tico society and culture, taking classes at the modern Latin University, which offers Spanish courses for all levels. On the weekends, take part in excursions to Costa Rica’s world-famous national parks and practice your Spanish with locals. On-site support is offered, which makes this a great program for those looking for a more catered experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in organized cultural activities with fellow travelers!
• Where? Heredia
• Read Arcos Learning Abroad reviews

2. CIEE Tropical Ecology + Conservation in Costa Rica

• Why? When it comes to biodiversity, Monteverde can’t be beat! A hotspot for environmental education, ecotourism, and conservation, it’s perfect for students interested in the natural sciences. You’ll also have the chance to explore other Costa Rican landscapes from mangroves and lowland rainforest to dry forests and beaches. Get hands-on experience while exploring the towns and jungles of Costa Rica!
• Where? Monteverde
• Read CIEE Study Abroad reviews

3. IFSA: Universidad Nacional Partnership

• Why? The Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA) offers students the chance to study abroad at the Universidad Nacional, which offers a full curriculum with a special focus on teacher education and environmental studies. Study Costa Rican ecology while exploring its incredible landscapes! By living with a host family, you’ll get an authentic intercultural experience. You’ll also participate in excursions to the Cafe Britt coffee plantation, the city of San José, and nearby tropical forests.
• Where? Heredia
• Read IFSA, Institute for Study Abroad reviews

Can’t pick? Sign up for MyGoAbroad and compare these programs side-by-side for FREE

Studying abroad in Costa Rica might just change your life!

Find out what adventures await you when you study abroad in Costa Rica.

While discovering how to study abroad in Costa Rica, you’ll find it’s a country well worth experiencing. The Monteverde cloud forest reserve, the Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, the many stunning beaches and waterfalls and hiking paths where you’ll be surrounded by an enormous diversity of flora and fauna—all contribute to why you should study abroad in this colorful and welcoming country. There’s no better time than now to start living the Pura Vida lifestyle!