Costa Rica Universities And Study Programs

Most university-level study-abroad programs are conducted in Spanish, although many programs offer classes in English as well as lower-level language courses. Savvy linguists may find it cheaper to enroll directly in a university abroad, although getting college credit may be more difficult. You can search www.studyabroad.com for various semester-abroad programs that meet your criteria, including your desired location and focus of study. If you’re a college student, your friendly neighborhood study-abroad office is often the best place to start. The programs offered in Costa Rica are as diverse as the country itself, so shop around.

American Field Service (AFS), 198 Madison Ave., 8th fl., New York, NY 10016, USA (☎+1 800-237-4636; www.usa.afs.org). Offers homestay exchange programs in Costa Rica primarily for high school students and graduating seniors. Financial aid available. Regional office locations on website. Summer US$7700; winter US$7750.
American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS), College Division, River Plaza, 9 W. Broad St., Stamford, CT 06902, USA (☎+1-800-727-2437; www.aifsabroad.com). Organizes programs for high-school and college study in universities at Veritas University in San José. Courses include Spanish language, environmental studies, and Latin American literature. Fee without airfare US$4495.
Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), 300 Fore St., Portland, ME 04101, USA (☎+1-207-553-4000 or 800-40-STUDY/407-8839; www.ciee.org). One of the most comprehensive resources for work, academic, and internship programs around the world, including in Costa Rica, where you can study biology and ecology in Monteverde. Summer fee US$5670. Semester fee US$11,700.

Costa Rican Programs

No matter what your style is, there is an opportunity for study in Costa Rica. Whether you’d prefer to live in a bustling metropolis, on a deserted beach, or in a tropical rainforest, you can find what you are looking for. Some programs specialize in Spanish and academics, while others focus more heavily on field research. For more info, go to www.westnet.com/costarica/education.html.

Cultural Experiences Abroad (US ☎+1 800-266-4441; www.gowithcea.com). Earn college credit at Veritas University, one of the most recognized private universities in Costa Rica. Offers language courses and business, ecology, and environment electives. Includes housing (homestay available), meal plan, excursions, medical insurance, internships, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities. 1-month intensive program US$2595; summer US$3695-4295; trimester US$7695.
Instituto Monteverde, Apdo. 69-5655, Monteverde, Puntarenas, Costa Rica (☎2506 645 5053; www.mvinstitute.org). This non-profit association provides educational and cultural resources for the local community. Offers programs in tropical ecology, biology, architecture, landscaping, and planning. Fee starts at US$4152.
University of Costa Rica Rainforest Adventure (☎+1 800-321-7625; www.educationabroad.com). A tropical field ecology program for English-speaking undergraduates at Costa Rica’s main national university. Students take Spanish lessons and stay with Costa Rican families. Credit accepted by many US universities. US$8500.