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ISA Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica

by: ISA by WorldStrides

8.89 (18)Verified

San José – or Chepe, as it is lovingly called by locals – is the political, economic, and cultural hub of Costa Rica. It is where most Costa Ricans live, study, and work. The city allows you to experience a bustling and cosmopolitan Latin American metropolis while also having the rest of the country's pristine wonders at your fingertips. Sign up for our ISA program in San José and study at Veri...

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Program Highlights

Take courses depending on your Spanish proficiency level.

Create a social network with Spanish and international students.

Take advantage of the services, facilities, amenities, and resources at our ISA office.

Escape the bustling city by going on a trip to tranquil destinations, such as rivers, mountains, and rainforests in Costa Rica.

Explore the country’s diverse landscapes, which range from a vibrant Latin American metropolis to pristine natural wonders.

Quick Details

Locations
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
Availability
Year(s) OfferedYear RoundTerms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Winter
Age Requirement:Varies
Types & Subjects:
  • Biology
  • Business
  • Culture
  • Ecology
  • Economics
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • American
  • Canadian
See all program details

Awards

Notable Mention - GoAbroad Top Rated Study Abroad Providers 2024Top Rated Provider 2023 - Notable MentionInnovative Student Video Finalist 2022Innovation in Alumni Engagement Finalist 2022

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

8.89

Total Reviews

18

From Flyers to Fulfillment: My Transformative Summer in Costa Rica

by: Estrella Rivera - United StatesProgram: ISA Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica
9

This summer, I had the privilege of studying abroad and participating in a service-learning program through International Studies Abroad by WorldStrides. As a first-generation student, studying abroad was never something I had seriously considered, nor did I see it as an option in my academic career. However, after stumbling across a flyer on my university campus, I knew I wanted to explore the opportunity. I had the chance to study in San José, Costa Rica, from June to July. As a civil engineering and Spanish major, I wanted to enhance my professional skills and expand my network, which is why I chose Costa Rica. I enrolled in a Spanish course at Universidad Veritas, which was unlike any course I had taken back in the U.S. Instead of traditional exams, the course focused on research presentations, essays, and discussions. The knowledge we gained in class was reflected in our essays and presentations, which replaced the need for exams. I would definitely encourage any prospective student who is uncertain about studying abroad to take the leap. The staff and students at Universidad Veritas were welcoming and supportive, creating a positive atmosphere throughout the campus. ISA offered amazing excursions that deepened my understanding of Costa Rica's culture and geographical landscape. The ISA guides and tour leaders were incredible, teaching us about the history, traditional dishes, plants, animals, and more. Every excursion was a fun learning experience and a chance to capture hundreds of beautiful photos. My host family truly made me feel at home. They were the kindest, sweetest people I have ever met and ensured that my roommates and I felt comfortable and safe every single day. They were thoughtful about our meals, often asking for our breakfast and dinner preferences, and even bought us our favorite seasonal fruits. My host mom exceeded all my expectations, and she became an important part of my experience. Not only did I meet amazing people, visit beautiful places, and try delicious food, but I also experienced significant personal growth. By the end of the trip, I realized I had become more independent and confident, even planning solo trips without feeling like an outsider. Self-discovery was an unexpected but valuable aspect of my study abroad experience. If you're considering studying abroad but are unsure, this is your sign to go for it. The program coordinators in Costa Rica were some of the sweetest and most supportive people I have ever encountered.

Estadio Nacional de Costa Ricapeople in karaoke bar

Best Adventure of my Life!

by: Miranda Gormley - United StatesProgram: ISA Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica
8

I absolutely loved my study abroad experience with ISA in San Jose, Costa Rica. I went on amazing snorkeling and whale-watching trips for my marine biology courses, got to explore many volcanoes and waterfalls, and was immersed in the Latin American culture through Spanish courses, my homestay, and lots of cultural activities. I learned how to cook traditional dishes, got to participate in tropical dance classes, and learned about the history of Costa Rica while traveling with ISA. Wouldn't change a minute of my journey!

Arenal Volcano

Bad trip

by: Melanie Schille - United StatesProgram: ISA Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica
3

This was one of the worst experiences I had abroad. Everything was a poor experience. Academics were bad, living situation was even worse, food was bad, and I got VERY sick multiple times. Don’t recommend San Jose for study abroad

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • San Jose, Costa Rica

Types and Subjects

  • Subjects & Courses
  • Biology
  • Business
  • Culture

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Age Requirement

Age Requirement Varies

Guidelines

  • American
  • Canadian
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Accommodation Options

  • Home-stays
  • Independent living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English
  • Spanish

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Physical Exam/Health Records
  • Transcript
  • Online Application
  • Disciplinary Clearance Form

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Allison Kielhold

Participated in 2012

Alumni

I chose ISA because they offered the language classes and academic courses that I needed for my degree. They also offered a home stay option, onsite support and tutoring, and included excursions to different parts of Costa Rica. 

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Danielle Lockard

Participated in 2011

Alumni

Choosing which study abroad program was the best fit for me didn’t happen overnight.  It took a lot of research and comparing to finally reach a decision. The Education Abroad office at the University of Kentucky was such a great tool in helping me decide. I wanted to choose a program outside of my school so I would have the opportunity to meet other students from different parts of the United States.

Show Full Interview

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