Study Abroad in Costa Rica

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Overview of Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

This Central American country roughly the size of West Virginia is well known for its rich biodiversity. Home to some of the most beautiful rainforests, beaches and mountains in the world, Costa Rica is a unique study abroad destination.

When you choose to study in Costa Rica, known as one of the happiest countries on earth, you can immerse yourself in the relaxed lifestyle, known by the Costa Rican catchphrase ‘la pura vida’ (the pure/simple life). Here you will learn that the simple pleasures in life are the best ones.

In your spare time, you can catch some waves at one of the renowned surfing beaches, or visit the Parque Nacional Corcovado and take in the diversity of wildlife like tapirs, crocodiles and tiny squirrel monkeys. Whatever you choose, Costa Rica will claim your heart with its beauty.

WHY STUDY ABROAD IN COSTA RICA

With one of the highest literacy rates in Latin America, scholastic achievement is highly valued in Costa Rica. Benefit from this prioritizing of education when you study at one of the excellent universities here. With Costa Rica being one of the more affordable places to live, budget-conscious students will also benefit from studying here.

When you’re not in class, you can practice your Spanish and make connections with friendly locals over the traditional breakfast dish of gallo pinto (beans, rice and vegetables), or embark on one of the many responsible ecotourism initiatives available in this progressive and environmentally conscious country.

HIGHLIGHTS OF STUDYING ABROAD IN COSTA RICA

Here are just a few of the best things about studying in Costa Rica:

Coffee was one of the first exports from Costa Rica, so you know you’ll get as much caffeine buzz as you need here
Soak up the tropical weather and beach lifestyle all while boosting your resume
Immerse yourself in the pura vida way of life and learn about the important things in life
Make connections with fellow international and local students and build your global network

Our Study Abroad Programs

Browse all of our opportunities to study in Costa Rica below. If you can’t find a suitable program, check out our main program finder to continue your study abroad search beyond Costa Rica.

Study Abroad A Costa Rican waterfall flows in the distance against a mountainous rainforest backdrop.

Costa Rica

Summer Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

From rainforests to waterfalls teeming with tropical wildlife, get lost in the natural beauty of Costa Rica this summer. Choose from 1 or 2 summer session time frames for the ultimate flexibility to work Costa Rica study abroad into your summer plans.

Study Abroad Costa Rica

Summer Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

You’ll be comfortably enrolled at Universidad Veritas in San Jose which is the #1 university in Costa Rica for hosting U.S. students abroad. Consisting of 2 month-long summer sessions, you’ll have the flexibility to choose a course and time frame that works best for you. Courses are taught in English OR Spanish.

Summer Session 1: Health and Humanities Focus
Summer Session 2: Environmental and Business Focus

Fill out a brief application form to get in touch with an advisor to help you start planning your summer in Costa Rica today!

Quick View Apply Now

Study Abroad

Costa Rica

Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

Study abroad with World Endeavors in Costa Rica and expand your skills while deepening your knowledge of this beautiful, richly diverse country.

Study Abroad Costa Rica

Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

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.

Location

About San Jose

This vibrant capital city blends urban bustle with arts and culture, offering you plenty to do, whether it’s browsing the museums downtown, exploring the authentic market of Mercado Centrale or heading off to one of the parks for some downtime. San Jose is a great city to walk around in, so make the most of this immersion in la pura vida way of life. Best of all, when you study in San Jose, it’s only a short drive to get to more than 800 miles of coastline and rainforests.

Dates & costs

Our study abroad programs dates vary based on the particular university you’ll be placed in and the costs vary based on how long you intend to study as well as what your course load will be.

To learn more about the costs and dates available, please select an individual study abroad program from the list above, or Request a Call and one of our team members will get in contact with you.

Semester Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas) | $10,945

Summer Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas) | $4,195

Eligibility

World Endeavors study abroad participants should be 18 years or older (in most cases).
Have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the start of their program.
Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.
Must have completed high school (or equivalent)
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.

See individual study abroad program pages for more details, or contact a World Endeavors advisor.

Housing

Housing for students studying in Costa Rica is typically in fully furnished accommodations either on campus, or close by, or with a host family. Usually this accommodation is shared with other international and local students, with shared bathrooms and communal living areas.

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.

Available Fields of Study

World Endeavors offers a broad range of study abroad options, from language-intensive semesters to universities offering a full spectrum of courses taught in English. With some planning, students in nearly any field should be able to study abroad and earn credits toward their degree.

VIEW ALL FIELD OF STUDY

AGRICULTURE & EQUINE

Explore agriculture & equine study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

ARTS

Explore arts study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

BUSINESS

Explore business study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

COMMUNICATION

Explore communication study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

EDUCATION

Explore education study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

HEALTH

Explore health study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

NATURAL SCIENCES

Explore natural sciences study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

Explore Humanities & Social Sciences study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

LANGUAGES & CULTURAL STUDIES

Explore languages & cultural studies study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH

Explore Technology, Engineering & Math study abroad programs in multiple countries. Boost your academic career and gain new skills by putting yourself out there!

How to choose the best Study Abroad program

Selecting the perfect study abroad program can be easy! Follow these steps to find the program that will help you achieve your goals.

Earn Credit Toward Your Degree

Studying abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your academic interests in an international context! Use our Program Finder tool to search by field of study and take classes toward your major.

Choose Your Dream Destination

Combine education and exploration of your dream destination! Evaluate which program countries align with your interests and academic objectives.

Improve your Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.

Fit Your Budget

Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.

The Time is Right

Explore programs offered in just the right window of opportunity. We offer semesters in the fall or spring, full academic year programs, or shorter summer study programs.

Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

Academic Credit

World Endeavors study abroad programs take place at top accredited universities and schools around the world. World Endeavors program advisors assist students with the process of credit approvals, transcripts, and credit transfers. We work with students’ academic advisors and universities to ensure that the process goes smoothly, allowing students to focus on the cultural and academic experience of studying abroad.

Have a specific course or requirement to fill? Contact a World Endeavors advisor to see what programs will be the best fit.

ACADEMIC CREDIT INFORMATION

Recent Testimonials

“
JillianStudy in France
“I realized once I got back that I learned more than I thought I did—not that I didn’t think I learned a lot, already. Three of my goals were to make more international friends (check), amp up my French comprehension (check), and expand my worldview (check).”

“
EdenStudy in Spain
“Honestly it was the best semester I’ve ever had. I met so many people and learned so many things. I found a new love for a different country. I would definitely recommend World Endeavors to anyone who wants a life-changing experience!”

“
JenniferStudy in Spain
“My advisor at World Endeavors was absolutely excellent! Her expertise and delightful people skills were exactly what sealed the deal, making World Endeavors my final decision for study abroad.””

“
AliciaStudy in Thailand
“I have to say that what I remember, as much as the delicious colors and flavors of Thailand, are the people I crossed paths with – the other students who became such good friends, and the local Thais who showed me such kindness. And of course the food. I still dream of the food.””

“
HeatherStudy in England
“It was amazing to be able to say I traveled to six countries in one semester.”

“
KristenIntern in Morocco
“It was amazing! Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone - the spontaneous adventures are gold!”

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.

View all FAQs

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Our Top Study Abroad Destinations

World Endeavors offers study abroad programs in several destinations in the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, English-speaking and non-English speaking. Semester, year-long, and summer programs are all available. Our wide range of options means you can find the program which is just right for you.

STUDY IN AUSTRALIA

Study abroad in one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world with gorgeous views of the Sydney coast surrounding the city.

STUDY IN MOROCCO

Study at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, a beautiful Moroccan town located in the Middle Atlas mountain range.

STUDY IN CHINA

Study in China to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Change your world by studying in China!

STUDY IN COLOMBIA

Study in Colombia to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Colombia!

STUDY IN COOK ISLANDS

Study in the Cook Islands to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Cook Islands!

STUDY IN SCOTLAND

Located in Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University focuses on preparing students for the workforce with programs catered to practical, applied learning.

STUDY IN CZECH REPUBLIC

Study in Czech Republic to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Czech Republic!

STUDY IN CROATIA

Ranked by UNESCO as one of the world’s most peaceful countries and a hidden gem among Mediterranean destinations, Croatia presents an unforgettable travel experience.

STUDY IN SCOTLAND

Study in Scotland to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Scotland!

STUDY IN ECUADOR

Located where the Guayas River meets the Pacific Ocean, Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest and most modern city as well as a popular tourist destination.

STUDY IN ENGLAND

Study on the vibrant campus of Edge Hill University near Ormskirk in West Lancashire. Ormskirk is a picture-perfect example of a charming English town

STUDY IN FRANCE

Study at the Université Catholique de l’Ouest in Angers - home to a castle dating back to the ninth century.

STUDY IN GREECE

Study in Greece to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Greece!

STUDY IN IRELAND

Study in Ireland to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Ireland!

STUDY IN ITALY

Study in Italy to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Italy!

STUDY IN LITHUANIA

Study in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital and largest city, effused with old-world charm and cobblestone streets lined with charming townhouses and boutique cafes.

STUDY IN LUXEMBOURG

Study in Luxembourg to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Luxembourg!

STUDY IN MEXICO

Study in Mexico to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Mexico!

STUDY IN NEW ZEALAND

Study in Mexico to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Mexico!

STUDY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Belfast has reinvented itself to become one of the most up-and-coming cities of the United Kingdom.

STUDY IN PORTUGAL

Study in Portugal to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Portugal!

STUDY IN SPAIN

Experience flamenco dancing and Europe’s most vivacious and colorful festivals in Seville while studying at Universidad Pablo de Olavide.

STUDY IN SLOVAKIA

Study in Slovakia to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Slovakia!

STUDY IN SOUTH AFRICA

Study in South Africa to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in South Africa!

STUDY IN SOUTH KOREA

Study in South Korea to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in South Korea!

STUDY IN SPAIN

Study in Spain to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Spain!

STUDY IN THAILAND

As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a thriving metropolis and one of the economic and cultural centers of southeast Asia.

STUDY IN VIETNAM

Study in Vietnam to expand your cultural horizons and enhance your academics through a wide range of courses. Put yourself out there by studying in Vietnam!

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!

Study Abroad in Costa Rica

Overview of Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

Our Study Abroad Programs

Summer Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

Summer Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

Study in Costa Rica (Universidad Veritas)

Location

Dates & costs

Eligibility

Housing

Every World Endeavors Study Abroad Program Includes

Available Fields of Study

AGRICULTURE & EQUINE

ARTS

BUSINESS

COMMUNICATION

EDUCATION

HEALTH

NATURAL SCIENCES

HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

LANGUAGES & CULTURAL STUDIES

TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH

How to choose the best Study Abroad program

Earn Credit Toward Your Degree

Choose Your Dream Destination

Improve your Language Skills

Fit Your Budget

The Time is Right

Academic Credit

Recent Testimonials

Costa Rica Study Abroad FAQs

Is San Jose safe?

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

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

Recent blog posts

How Do I Get a Summer Internship Abroad?

The 11 Best Scholarships to Pay for Study Abroad

The Search for the Perfect Study Abroad Program

Our Top Study Abroad Destinations

STUDY IN AUSTRALIA

STUDY IN MOROCCO

STUDY IN CHINA

STUDY IN COLOMBIA

STUDY IN COOK ISLANDS

STUDY IN SCOTLAND

STUDY IN CZECH REPUBLIC

STUDY IN CROATIA

STUDY IN SCOTLAND

STUDY IN ECUADOR

STUDY IN ENGLAND

STUDY IN FRANCE

STUDY IN GREECE

STUDY IN IRELAND

STUDY IN ITALY

STUDY IN LITHUANIA

STUDY IN LUXEMBOURG

STUDY IN MEXICO

STUDY IN NEW ZEALAND

STUDY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

STUDY IN PORTUGAL

STUDY IN SPAIN

STUDY IN SLOVAKIA

STUDY IN SOUTH AFRICA

STUDY IN SOUTH KOREA

STUDY IN SPAIN

STUDY IN THAILAND

STUDY IN VIETNAM

How to apply for a Study Abroad Program

REVIEWS, AWARDS & AFFILIATIONS