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High School Study Abroad in Costa Rica

From the clear turquoise seas on either coast to the rolling inland coffee farms, Costa Rica is an attractive destination for high school students in search of both chilling and thrilling experiences. Students can exchange their high school classrooms for a learning experience that comes complete with a passport, awesome photos (selfies with sea turtles!), diverse new friends, and improved Spanish skills. Students who attend high school programs in Costa Rica will go home with a number of Spanish credits under their belt and a tan that’ll make everyone jealous. 

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Opened my eyes

April 25, 2025by: Raymond Ostertag - FranceProgram: Summer Camp in the Tropical Forest - Costa Rica
10

This program in the wildlife refuge really opened my eyes to how much work is needed to care for hundreds of animals. I was also deeply enriched through exchanges with passionate people. Tasks were quite varied. I was responsible for cleaning cages and enriching them with forest branches. I also helped move animals like macaws, parrots, sloths, and howler monkeys in and out of their enclosures. Duties also included monitoring animal health and feeding. I was well-matched with centers that suited me. The guidance was sufficient and flexible, which helped me stay organized. I also appreciated the help with administrative tasks, which can be tedious. Once on site, there was nothing left to worry about!

A Guide to High School Programs Abroad in Costa Rica

Best Cities for Teens

Whether you choose to adopt the slightly more busy city life or a laid back beachside lifestyle, one truth remains: with the right amount of dedication to speaking Spanish and openness to new experiences, your high school program in Costa Rica will be exciting and productive. The most popular destinations for high school programs in Costa Rica include:

San José. The capital and largest city, known locally as Chepe, is a bit of a concrete eyesore. Even so, students who take the time to get to know the city through a high school program will be treated to a playground of historic neighborhoods and colorful street art. During high school programs in San José students will be able to witness firsthand the interweavings of the Tico’s indigenous heritage and colonial past.

Heredia. This university town is small and easily managed by first time visitors to Costa Rica. Its adorable town square will keep you busy after class, and its accessibility to nearby mountain towns and villages means opportunities for adventure (the culturally immersive type!) are abundant. Don’t forget to take a dip in the nearby waterfalls or swimming holes!

Other student-friendly highland cities include San Joaquín de Flores and Monteverde, and for those that want to study on the coast, Samara, Manuel Antonio, and Playa Flamingo (Yes, FLAMINGO!) all host high school program opportunities.

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