Home | Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

Program Overview

Universidad Veritas in San Jose prides itself on offering the top-rated Study Abroad program in Costa Rica, which combines language learning, cultural integration and exploration of this biodiverse country. This university prioritizes diversity and inclusion, as well as having a strong emphasis on sustainability and climate change education.

The Universidad Veritas offers over 70 courses, ranging from project management to marine biology, animation to acting. It has an active support services platform available for students, as well as an Adventure Office, which organizes various educational and sight-seeing excursions while handling logistics and ensuring that students travel safely.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

The affordable programs at the Universidad Veritas, along with the reasonable cost of living in Costa Rica, will ensure that your study abroad time here is packed with experiences and adventures. The university focuses on experiential learning in small classes with faculty who are approachable and ready to help.

The variability of the courses promises a rich academic experience, while the ethnic diversity and rich cultural life of San Jose, the capital city and home to the Universidad Veritas campus, will ensure your cultural and linguistic skills are well exercised.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Approval received from the home university.
  • Current official undergraduate degree transcript.
  • Valid passport until at least 6 months after your program end date. Copy of your passport (photo page).
  • Most students will be required to obtain a study visa. The application process can be extensive but World Endeavors staff will walk you through it!
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Location

San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica and is well-known among Latin American countries for its high quality of life, security and level of globalization. This vibrant city is part of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, and is home to many parks and plazas with open green areas and fountains where you can relax and people-watch between classes.

Build a deeper knowledge of the rich history of Costa Rica, with visits to the Museo del Oro Precolombino filled with pre-Columbian artifacts, and the National Museum of Costa Rica. Use San Jose’s central location as a base to explore the natural riches that this mega-diverse country has to offer.

Housing

The Universidad Veritas offers homestay accommodation for students in study abroad programs, and prides itself on long-standing relationships with many of its dedicated homestay families. Students get their own private room, and breakfast and dinner with the host family. All host families live within easy walking distance from campus.

Life in San Jose

San Jose is an affordable city to live in, and makes a convenient base from which to explore Costa Rica. One of the fastest growing destination cities in the world, this thriving city, built on the profits of the coffee trade, is brimming with theaters, cafes and restaurants.

Soak up the relaxed lifestyle of the la pura vida way of life, while you stroll down to Barrio Escalante, the unofficial gastronomical center of the city, and choose between fine dining and tantalizing street food, like casado (black beans, rice and meat) or gallo pinto (rice and beans, traditionally eaten for breakfast).

Support whilst in Costa Rica

World Endeavors study abroad programs offer full support, starting with airport pickup and accommodation transfer upon arrival followed by an on-site orientation covering health, safety, and local tips. Emergency support from your in-country coordinator, 24/7 travel medical insurance, and continuous contact with your advisor for additional assistance throughout the program helps you feel secure and supported. Whatever challenges life throws your way, we’ve got you covered!

Academic

Academic credit and transcripts are issued by the Universidad Veritas after the successful completion of the program. The Universidad Veritas is a fully-accredited, state-recognized institution of higher learning and will help you develop the skills you need to succeed, with a mix of lecture-style tuition and practical experience.

The World Endeavors process is designed to take the guesswork out of academic credit and credit transfers. Our experienced advisors work with each student and his or her academic advisor before the program begins to ensure students earn the credit expected for courses taken abroad.

Eligibility

Applicants to study abroad with World Endeavors must have completed high school (or equivalent), and, in most cases, must be at least 18 years of age. While some programs have minimum GPA requirements and require that applicants be currently enrolled in a college or university, others are open to all participants regardless of age or student status. Please contact a World Endeavors advisor for more detailed eligibility criteria.

Course Load

Courses at the Universidad Veritas are lecture- and seminar-based, with significant independent study expected. We recommend students take only four courses per semester. Students may take five courses per semester with approval from their Academic or Study Abroad Advisor first.

What's Included/ Costs

INCLUDED

  • Dedicated Program Advisor who is accessible and experienced
  • Tuition: 12-18 credits per semester (up to 5 courses)
  • Academic transcript from the Universidad Veritas
  • Meals (Breakfast and Dinner provided by Host Family) 
  • Pre and post arrival orientation; re-entry guidance
  • Student services and learning support
  • Access to university facilities
  • 24/7 emergency phone support
  • Airport reception and welcome
  • Student housing accommodations
  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance
  • Travel visa guidance and support
  • Advice on how to get a local phone number

NOT INCLUDED

  • Round-trip transportation to SAN JOSE
  • Visa expenses
  • Optional trips and excursions
  • Textbooks and other course materials
  • Daily transportation
  • Personal expenses
Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)
Cost: $10,945
Summer Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas) Cost: $4,195

Dates & Deadlines

Summer Session 2024:  May 27, 2024 - June 28, 2024

Application Deadline: March 15th, 2024


Fall Semester 2024: September 4 - December 22, 2024

Application Deadline: June 30, 2024


Spring Semester 2025: January 4 - April 5, 2025 [estimated]

Application Deadline: October 30, 2024


Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.

Every World Endeavors Study Abroad Program Includes

Our study abroad programs are as unique as our destinations, but there are program features that unify all of our study experiences.

YOUR STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

  • Top accredited universities
  • Flexible durations – 2 to 4 weeks to a full academic year
  • Expansive destination options
  • English instruction offered in all locations

ACCOMMODATION

  • Vetted campus accommodations selected with quality and safety in mind
  • Friendly community of peers from local host country and around the world

TEAM OF EXPERTS

  • Dedicated one-on-one advisor
  • Local on-site coordinator

PREPARATION AND SUPPORT

  • Airport pickup
  • Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
  • 24/7 local support
  • Activities and cultural engagement
  • On-campus social events, clubs and sports

ACADEMIC CREDIT

  • Professional assistance and collaboration with home institution on course approvals and credit transfers
  • Transcript received directly from university abroad

PEACE OF MIND

  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance
  • Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
  • 24/7 emergency travel assistance

HEALTH & SAFETY

When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety. 

We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN COSTA RICA

While you’re in Costa Rica, you can enjoy a wide array of exciting activities and experiences. Here are some things you can do in your spare time in Costa Rica:

  • Explore National Parks and Reserves: Discover Costa Rica’s stunning biodiversity by visiting its numerous national parks and wildlife reserves. Explore places like Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Tortuguero National Park to witness diverse flora and fauna.
  • Eco-Tourism and Adventure Sports: Engage in eco-friendly activities such as zip-lining through the treetops, white-water rafting down rushing rivers, or taking a canopy tour to experience the country’s natural wonders up close.
  • Learn to Surf: Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise with great waves suitable for all skill levels. Sign up for surf lessons and ride the waves along the Pacific coast.
  • Experience Tico Culture: Engage with the locals, known as “Ticos” and “Ticas,” to experience the warm and friendly Costa Rican culture. Participate in traditional events, sample local cuisine, and learn about their customs.

Not sounding like the right program for you? Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

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Costa Rica Study Abroad FAQs

Is San Jose safe?

San José is known as a peaceful place, but petty theft in popular tourist areas and on public transportation is common. Costa Rica is considered the safest country in Latin America with low violent crime rates, so it’s generally a safe city for study abroad students.

Is there a minimum age for participating in World Endeavours programs?

Generally, participants should be 18 years or older. Some programs will take participants under the age of 18. If you are under 18 and would like to participate in a program, please contact one of our advisors for a list of programs and requirements. There is no upper age limit to our programs.

Why should I choose San Jose as a study abroad destination?

Studying abroad in Costa Rica offers you the opportunity to learn outside the traditional classroom, grow your global perspective and expand your cultural competencies. This small environmentally conscious country contains 5% of the globe’s biodiversity, which offers you the chance to experience the beauty of a relatively untouched wilderness.

Related Programs

How to apply for a Study Abroad Program

You’ve decided to study abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. Get ready to CHANGE YOUR WORLD!

STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK
Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.

STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.

STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE
Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!

STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!
You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready to study and explore like never before!