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Where Environmental Passion and Natural Wonders Meet

Love nature? Costa Rica won’t disappoint. With more than 300 waterfalls, 200 volcanoes, and 300 beaches, you’ll never run out of outdoor adventures.

In addition to natural beauty, Costa Rica is known for its deep commitment to preservation and environmental stewardship, making it an ideal place to appreciate and learn to protect the world around you.

Why study abroad in Costa Rica?

Education style. Expect emphasis on independent, self-directed learning. Class sizes vary, from large lectures to smaller lab settings, depending on your program.

Cultural orientation. Rooted in the philosophy of “pura vida” (pure life), Costa Rican culture is laid-back, joyful, and stress-free. With a strong focus on family and a deep appreciation for nature, its culture blends Indigenous and Spanish influences.

Student lifestyle. With heavy emphasis on community, it’s easy to engage with locals through meals and community events.

Costa Rican cities study abroad students live in:

• Heredia is known for its natural landscapes and colonial history, reflected in its architecture. The city is also a cultural hub that celebrates local cuisine, music, and dance. While known for its proximity to lush mountains and rainforests, Heredia is also an economic center, hosting the headquarters of many major corporations.

Costa Rican cities popular among study abroad students to visit:

• Alajuela, known as the “City of Mangoes,” features over 20 century-old mango trees in its central park. The city is an ideal destination for nature lovers, with easy access to Arenal Volcano, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
• Cartago is rich in natural beauty and cultural history. In addition to volcanoes and lush gardens, it’s home to the Basílica Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, a church famous for the Black Virgin statue. The city also boasts significant archaeological sites, such as Guayabo National Monument and Ruinas de la Parroquia.
• ������ó�� is another great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, snorkeling, canal cruises, and rainforest exploration. It’s also home to the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica.
• San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is home to more than one million people. It’s not only the geographic center of the country but also the hub of its economic and political activity. Here, you’ll find a lively metropolitan area filled with restaurants, parks, museums, and theaters.

Costa Rica study abroad highlights

Language spoken	Spanish
Capitals	San José
Common housing types	Homestays
Known for	Cloud forests, volcanoes, rainforests, biodiversity, coffee and cacao culture, indigenous tradition, and environmental conservation
Time zone	CST (GMT-6)
Currency	Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Fun facts	Ranked as one of the world’s happiest countries. The first nation to reverse deforestation. The name “Costa Rica” originates from the Spanish words for “Rich Coast”

IFSA programs in Costa Rica

IFSA offers programs designed to align with your goals.

• By program type
  • Spanish language
  • Environmental studies
• By term
  • Fall semester
  • Spring semester
  • Winter

Frequently asked questions

• Do I need a visa?
  • Visit our Visa Requirements page for guidance.
• Are there scholarships?
  • Yes! IFSA offers a range of scholarships, including need-based awards and destination-specific funding. View scholarships.
• What excursions and activities are typically* offered?
  • Sarchí oxcart painting workshop
  • Gender identity in Costa Rica workshop
  • Visit to an Indigenous Territory
  • Cloud forest and sustainability experience
  • Family farm and agricultural traditions visit
  • Day trip to Sarapiqui to participate in native tree reforestation
  • Sustainable chocolate farm and processing plant visit
  • Meeting with owners of environmentally friendly hotels to discuss ecotourism
    *Excursions vary by term, year, and location
• What sports are popular in Costa Rica?
  • Football (soccer). Costa Rica’s most popular sport, considered the nation’s pastime. The national team is called La Sele, and there are several professional teams throughout the country.
  • Surfing. This coastal country has many world-class surfing locations and options for every skill level, making it a popular destination for passionate surfers.
  • Beach volleyball. In addition to water sports, Costa Rican beaches host an active beach volleyball scene.

Study Abroad Programs Available in Costa Rica

Student Stories from Costa Rica

“When we ventured into the breathtaking tropical rainforest, I felt like a wild horse set free. Being surrounded by nature felt like returning to myself—where I belong. Nature has a way of dissolving our barriers, grounding us in the moment, and in doing so, it reminded me of my purest, most unburdened self.” —Shiyi C., IFSA January in Costa Rica

“In Costa Rica, I improved my Spanish, made many new friends, climbed mountains by myself, visited volcanoes, and grew as a person. Studying abroad with IFSA allowed me to do so many things, and my weekend at Planet One World was one that I will remember for my lifetime.” —Nic G., IFSA Universidad Nacional Partnership, Costa Rica