
Rory Brown
Intercultura Costa Rica
AlumniMy daughter! She did their teen Spanish program last year, and she just loved it so much that it actually gave me the idea to go myself. She told me a...
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with KCP International Japanese Language School
MAXIMO NIVEL
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Live and study in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Maximo Nivel offers the most intensive and professional Spanish Immersion program in Latin America. Learn Spanish on-site across 4 modern campuses in 3 of the most beautiful countries, or join online from anywhere in the world! Led by an experien
See All 4 ProgramsKaya Responsible Travel
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RECRUITING FOR 2023 Kaya's learn Spanish program in Costa Rica offers a unique Spanish immersion language course that enable students to learn the language and at the same time experience Costa Rican culture. While Spanish instruction is the focal point of all academic classes, you will have the
Don Quijote
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Live "the Spanish way" while learning the language at Don Quijote. Our unique and immersive learning environment helps students reach their full language potential, inside and outside the classroom. We provide a range of courses for all skill levels based on individual needs. We achieve this by tak
The National Registration Center for Study Abroad
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The NRCSA Center in San Jose offers exciting programs of instruction in the Spanish language. Its short term courses of two, three and four weeks are very popular among visitors to the country. The team of instructors are both professional and experienced. Located in a quiet, upscale residential are
See All 3 ProgramsChoosing the right language program is a key part in having the best experience possible in San Jose. Your program choice makes all the difference between a life changing experience and a simple getaway (nobody has time for that, for real!).
When learning Spanish in San Jose, you can choose to attend a Spanish language school, a more established university program, or hire a private tutor. You should pick your “poison” based on your personal linguistic goals. If you don’t thrive in a large classroom, stick to small group classes, typically offered by language schools in San Jose. You can also consider doing Spanish-taught elective courses offered by academic institutions, which will help broaden your vocabulary and even learn slang terms native to Costa Rica.
English language learners can also attend classes or language schools in San Jose designed specifically for those who want to improve their English language fluency. If you are studying English as a second language, but want to trade in cloudy, grey Scotland for something more lively (and don’t mind that the surrounding native language is not English), San Jose can be an adventurous option.
Depending on which language program in San Jose you choose, classes can be quite different, whether in terms of scheduling, structure, or course content. Some Spanish language schools in San Jose offer extracurricular activities to supplement courses, such as dance, cooking, and cultural classes. While studying in San Jose, you will notice that everything and everyone is more tranquilo (relaxed), so even if you arrive to class late, you might end up walking into a classroom with only your Spanish professor present.
City life in Costa Rica is filled with many adventures, especially in San Jose. San Jose has a unique sense of diversity when it comes to its history, race, and activities. For language students, taking classes can be like taking an extended vacation. There are many cafes, restaurants, and bars (18 and up, no babies!) throughout the city that students can go to chill, eat, and hangout with their peers. Additionally, San Jose is filled with historical sites, such as El Parque Nacional (national park), Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica (theater), and El Museo Nacional de Costa Rica (national museum). San Jose likewise offers common recreational activities, like cinemas, a skating rink, and bowling alleys.
Getting around San Jose is easy, but can be dangerous if you are not aware of your surroundings. Safety is number one for all study abroad students; being a foreigner can at times make you an easy target. When walking to different locations, use the buddy system (and try to walk with utmost confidence). Taking a taxi is the most popular way of getting around the city, so keep in mind that legitimate taxis are bright red with a yellow triangle on the side of the car. Buses are also a very affordable option, but keep in mind it is safer to always travel with a buddy. Once you have the buddy system down, you can go to wherever your heart desires, which hopefully is on to new adventures.
Unlike a handful of countries, Costa Rica has two seasons: dry and wet. Dry season (mid-November to April) is the summer for San Jose; this time of year is filled with sunshine and positive vibes. May to Mid-November is wet season, when not a lot of outdoor activity can be accomplished.
Living arrangements all depend on the language program you choose. Most language programs in San Jose offer a homestay option, where students live in the homes of native Costa Ricans. Other programs give participants the chance to live with other students or in an apartment. However, for serious language learners, host families are ideal. Local host families can provide the comfort and patience needed to master the Spanish language, while simultaneously giving students the chance to experience local customs and social norms. If you’re attending language courses at a university, you will likely live in a suburban or urban neighborhood close by to the school. For example, students attending Universidad Veritas typically live in the neighborhoods of Zapote and Barrio Cordoba.
International students do not usually need a visa to attend language schools in San Jose, however they will, not surprisingly, need a passport. Those entering Costa Rica for the purpose of attending language courses will only be able to remain in the country for 90 days before having to leave or apply for a visa. Most students staying longer than the 90 days leave the country by traveling to Nicaragua or Panama for the weekend, and then come back for another 90 days visa-free. Receiving a visa can take approximately six to eight weeks, depending on the season and if your documents were submitted correctly. Be sure to apply for a passport six months in advance, to ensure it arrives on time (you can’t leave the country without it, ya know?). For up-to-date visa info, please refer to GoAbroad’s Costa Rican Embassy Directory.
There are numerous benefits that language programs in San Jose can provide, other than just a reason to perfect your present perfect subjunctives. Students will not only learn about the grammatical characteristics of the Spanish language, they will also learn how to speak in a culturally sensitive manner. Remember: it isn’t always what you say, but how you say it.
Language schools in San Jose will support students to help them become who they want to be. The city provides a sense of libertad (freedom) that you may not feel back home. It can be tempting to get swept away in the joys and frivolities of living abroad, to make friends with the most comfortable or convenient circles (cough* people from your home country cough*) and to waste the opportunity at hand. Make a conscious effort to do just the opposite!
A language program in San Jose will change everything. It’s an experience that many students bring back home and share with the people around them. Be an adventurer, follow your dreams, and most importantly, Pura Vida.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Program: Spanish Immersion Online | Fast-Track Your Fluency!
Maximo Nivel fue muy flexible a la hora de organizar el curso, adaptándose perfectamente al horario que tenía disponible durante el día. Además, me encantó poder participar en actividades con otros estudiantes en San José y vivir de cerca experiencias culturales, como las celebraciones y los desfiles del Día de la Independencia de Costa Rica. También recomiendo mucho el programa de tándem, ya que me permitió conocer y conectar con personas de Centroamérica y practicar el español en un ambiente muy agradable y auténtico.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I thoroughly enjoyed my two weeks at Maximo. My teacher Marianella was excellent and my classmates were a lot of fun. All of the staff at Maximo were overwhelmingly helpful and pleasant. The building itself wow on air-conditioned was a great place to spend downtime and do homework. the pool was an excellent bonus. I definitely improved my Spanish and I’m very pleased with the results. Additionally, the cultural experiences were excellent. I especially loved the sea turtle release and the cooking classes. I will definitely recommend Maximo to friends and family.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Really enjoyed our two weeks doing Spanish immersion. Instruction was top notch, professional. Learned a lot. The program is well organized and staff is there to help you with anything you might need. I’d recommend this program to anyone.
Program: Work, Study, Travel! Explore Latin America with Maximo Nivel
The home stay was great, felt very welcome always and the food was great. My lessons were well organised and the teachers were always passionate in helping me improve, and felt like I improved a lot in only 3 weeks. Great experience overall, and i would recommend to anyone that wants to learn a new language.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
During my stay here, the teachers and organization were exceptionally professional and constantly checked in on me to ensure everything was up to standard. The curriculum was professionally curated, and as a student I was allowed to ask to hone in on certain aspects if I had any confusion. If youre considering studying here, I would recommend taking private classes, as it ensures progression will match your own pace. Overall, 5 stars across the board :)
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I had such a great time in Antigua. My host family was amazing. They were so kind and all the food was so good. My teachers were excellent as well. I learned so much and they were so kind. The travel Guiness program was great too. I had so much fun traveling to Lake Aticlan and going to the beach.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
My Spanish teachers at Maximo were very knowledgable about the Spanish language and consistently provided me with feedback and explanations that helped me improve my Spanish very quickly! My classes had a good balance of authentic conversation and grammar, and it was clear that my teachers had put a lot of thought into the sequence and pacing of the lessons.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I've been learning a lot about the Guatemalan culture while volunteering in a local school and wandering on the streets of Antigua. I've learnt Spanish very quickly thanks to my fantastic teacher Francisco who is a marvellous language teacher.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I really enjoyed my time here; Maximo offers everything you need and more – the pool in particular was brilliant, and you could always get free water. The host family were very friendly and the food was delicious and varied. It didn’t have air conditioning, but that wasn’t a problem. My teacher was brilliant; I learnt a great deal in two weeks through lots of conversation. Also the staff is very helful with everything. I really loved it here:))

Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I learned so much in this program and had the best teachers. Odilia and Aracely were so attentive and knowledgeable. Admin was so great too! Antigua is a beautiful and fun city with so much to do. Thank you for everything.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
In my case, Maximo Nivel is most ideal for those looking to improve their Spanish through an all encompassing immersion. I would suggest taking advantage of the free salsa and cooking classes, along with the tandem conversation opportunities.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Great instruction and they were very helpful for activities outside of the classroom as well. We can’t wait to come back. They were so helpful. We did many tours, the zip line the night jungle hike, which was excellent as as well as visiting the national Park Manuel Antonio.


Program: Work, Study, Travel! Explore Latin America with Maximo Nivel
I came to Peru 2 months ago for trekking but i felt like i could not get a complete experience without learning spanish. I came back to cusco and sighned up to Maximo Nivel. the apliccation was very easy and the costumer help was very eficiente as well [i sighned up and started the next day]. i loved the teacher and the fact that we study grammer but practice speaking too with the group. the only thing that i think you should consider is that in my claas, i had students that took spanish allready in an other MAXIMO NIVEL school and were very advanced [finished the book already], that made me question multiple times if i am placed at the right level. other than that, the explications of the teacher were clear and i felt like i understoud the homeworks after class. overall, had an amazing experience and i will continue studying spanish in my country!.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I really liked the language classes with Maximo Nivel!! The teachers were really professional and capable, but also fun and teach you in a fun way. The loction of the school is in the middle of the center of the city which also is really nice. They organise (free) activities so you can easily meet new people. I would for sure recommend this school!
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
The class of Spanish with Francis were perfect. I learnt quick, participate a lot and our teacher Francis was perfect. My classmate and me were similar level. Francis took the time to talk, answer explain any question we had
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
This experience felt like a productive use of my time. I took 2 hour classes for a month. My teacher Alma was amazing and my Spanish improved tremendously. It was such a good school I’m thinking about extending my stay.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Really enjoyed the program at Maximo Nivel. I took Spanish lessons for two weeks, which was a great way to improve - especially conversation and comprehension. The teachers were professional, patient and helpful and it was always fun to attend classes and Ive learned a lot during those two weeks. The extracurricular activities like cooking classes and salsa lessons were also nice. Would definitely recommend to take Spanish at Maximo Nivel.
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
Teacher and host family were awesome! I have learned a lot und enjoyed the time in class. Whenever i had questions everyone was super helpful and friendly. i also liked the activity program that were offered. Had great fun!
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
I had a wonderful experience with my private teacher who tailored the lesson to my favour and my level. The service was extraordinary (from e-mail communication to check out). It was nice that all activities were included and teachers were flexible. Would come back !!!
Program: Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America
The people at Maximo Nivel definitely make the experience worth it. From arrival to departure they make sure that you are taken care of every step of the way! Quepos is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Costa Rican culture. There are beaches, jungles, restaurants, and shops all in proximity to one another. You will never run out of things to do!
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Rory Brown
Intercultura Costa Rica
AlumniMy daughter! She did their teen Spanish program last year, and she just loved it so much that it actually gave me the idea to go myself. She told me a...
Read Full Interview
Jamie Kennedy
Tico Lingo - Spanish Immersion School
AlumniI had never left the USA before, and I felt like I had a really closed view of what the world had to offer. I really wanted to get out on the open roa...
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Caleb Jordan
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI've been wanting to learn Spanish for years, and with an open summer vacation, an immersive learning program seemed like the best choice for me.
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Jamie Potts
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad when my family and I visited my brother in Taiwan. He was teaching English to kids in a school in Tainan, Taiwan. The mome...
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Marlee Schmidt Olson
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI have traveled abroad before, but as a Spanish teacher I wanted to maintain and improve my Spanish skills.
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Nate Kirk
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI heard about Instituto Estelar Bilingue from a family member that had participated in the language immersion program in Costa Rica. After hearing abo...
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Jacqulyn Nelson
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI wanted to learn Spanish from a native Spanish speaker and also learn about the Spanish culture.
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Greta Phillips
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI wanted to improve my language skills, meet new people, and immerse myself in another culture.
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Liz Racine
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniI have been doing Latin dancing for 10 years and love Latino music. I started Spanish classes in my hometown five years ago as I love the language. I ...
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Emily Kraus
Instituto Estelar Bilingue
AlumniMy inspiration to go abroad is connected to my passion to learn Spanish. I believe that U.S. Americans have a responsibility to learn a language besid...
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Claire Rosas
Tico Lingo - Spanish Immersion School
AlumniI had never left the U.S. and wanted to go somewhere to study Spanish abroad. After doing some short browsing, I knew studying Spanish abroad and imme...
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Destinee Schuster
Academia de Español Nicoya
AlumniI wanted to improve my Spanish language speaking abilities and introduce my daughter to the Spanish language.
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