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University Programs | Costa Rica, Guatemala, & Peru!

Contact ProviderProgram Costs
VerifiedProvider
4.5 / 5Student rating
12Reviews
47Programs
2003Year established

Program Overview

If you’re looking for credit-bearing university programs in Latin America that combine adventure, service, and education, this is it! Maximo Nivel works with universities in the United States, Canada, and Europe to organize short-term, semester-long, and customized programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. We arrange everything from academic courses and in-country projects to accommodations, private tours, and transportation. A variety of program options are available—university courses, international internships, service learning, university Spanish courses, and much more! Every educational experience is designed to meet your university’s requirements and to deliver on clear learning objectives. University programs and courses for academic credit are available for Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer terms. Students can choose from a unique academic calendar to study in Latin America in 3-week terms during the Fall and Spring semesters; 4-week terms during the Summer; and a special 2-week J-Term during Winter break. By combining terms, students can complete their studies in a short-term, quarter, or full semester format abroad. Open enrollment programs are also available.

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Program Highlights

Take credit-bearing courses across high-demand fields—including Business, Public Health, Environmental Studies, Sociology, and Foreign Languages—in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru, or Online.
Customize your study schedule with adaptable course terms ranging from 2 to 14 weeks available across Fall, Spring, Summer, and Winter J-Terms.
Earn official, transferable academic credits pre-approved by your home university or issued through Maximo Nivel’s official School of Record.
Receive personalized instruction and guidance from experienced local and international professors with expert field credentials.
Enhance classroom theory with real-world application through field projects, corporate and NGO site visits, and cultural excursions.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees
Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Wifi Costs
Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Academic Advising
Assistance Booking Travel
Language Lessons
Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
Micro-Credential(s) / Certification(s)
Textbooks / Reading Materials
Academic Credit
Letter of Recommendation
Certificate of Completion
Emergency Support

Quick Details

Location
San Jose, Costa RicaManuel Antonio, Costa RicaAntigua, GuatemalaLima, PeruPuerto Maldonado, PeruCusco, Peru
Availability
Year(s) Offered:Year Round
Terms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Winter
  • Throughout the Year
Age Requirement18+
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Biology
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Business
  • Conflict Studies
  • Continuing Education
  • Culture
  • Ecology
  • Ethnic Studies
  • Health Sciences
  • Independent Study
  • International Business
  • International Relations
  • Latin American Studies
  • Marine Biology
  • Medicine
  • Pre-Med
  • Service Learning
  • Social Work
  • Spanish
GuidelinesAll Nationalities
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Updated Aug 30, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
  • Antigua, Guatemala
  • Cusco, Peru
  • Lima, Peru
  • Puerto Maldonado, Peru

Fields & Subjects

  • Biology
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Conflict Studies
  • Ecology
  • Health Sciences
  • International Relations
  • Pre-Med
  • Social Work
  • Spanish
  • Latin American Studies
  • Medicine
  • Culture
  • Continuing Education
  • International Business
  • Ethnic Studies
  • Marine Biology
  • Service Learning
  • Business
  • Independent Study

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered: Year Round
  • Terms Available: Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter, Throughout the Year

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Apartment/Flat
  • Group living
  • Guest House
  • Home-stays
  • Independent living

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18+

Payment Terms

  • Payment Plan
  • Upfront Deposit
  • Changes Allowed

Refund Policy

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about MAXIMO NIVEL

4.5
12 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
7
4
4
3
1
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Cultural Immersion
4.8
Academics
4.8
Program Administration
4.6
Health & Safety
4.5
Community
4.5
Living Situation
4.1

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-12 of 12 reviews

Joel BlankUnited States · June 2026

Delta college study abroad program

Administration and staff were excellent. Without their united team effort the our program would probably would not have happen. As the actual program, excellent visits, although unfortunately visits to the University of Costa Rica Department of political science and law school didn't occur given the problems of getting further off the ground no one's really to blame

Tais Villalobos-GaticaUnited States · June 2026

learning about myself

While at my time with Maximo, I had a lot going on back at home. Ultimately, I felt that being here in Costa Rica has allowed me to learn so much about myself as well as my fears. In which Michael and Gabby contributed to. The immense support received not just by Maximo but specifically by Michael has been the most significant to me. There is nothing I could say to express what it is that I feel within. I have never met anyone like Michael, I say that from the bottom of my heart. I have never been someone who cared about losing friendships, yet I feel that I’ve established such an amazing friendship with Michael that it brings sadness to my heart knowing that it may be a while until we meet again. You are blessed to have such amazing staff. As someone observant, I watched as Michael took on each and every responsibility. I could feel how he felt, and witnessing first hand how he quickly responded to each scenario was honestly impressive. I’ve never met someone as loving, and soft. With a light that brings joy to others. I feel extremely blessed to have met them.

Kathleen GallupUnited States · June 2026

Best program!!!!

The political, cultural and environmental activities organized by Maximo were wonderful. Our guide for our two weeks was Michael and he is the best guide ever. He took care of us, changed plans on a dime if needed and was a lot of fun. Based on this experience I would recommend Maximo’s study abroad programs in Costa Rica.

Anushka NichaniUnited States · May 2026

Absolutely incredible!

This program was so incredible! It really opened my eyes to new experiences, new people, and new perspectives! The entire staff was so helpful and engaging!!! I am extremely thankful for this program and the opportunities and people it brought me!

Helena IbrahimUnited States · March 2026

GREAT week

Had so much fun this week studying in costa rica and being around all the wildlife! I really enjoyed the balance between studying and cultural immersion and I can’t wait to come back to costa rica and do it again!

Megan StowellUnited States · January 2025

Best trip ever!

Maximo Nivel made my study abroad experience fun, exciting, and easy. They were so welcoming with open arms and smiles. This was my first time traveling another alone and abroad, and I was nervous. But Maximo made sure I felt comfortable and safe in a new place, offering great support. They were great!

Evely ReyesUnited States · September 2023

Unforgettable experience

Not only did my Spanish fluency improve but I got to meet some amazing people and make life long memories. The teachers and staff were super helpful and welcoming. They showed a lot of interest in their students

Jhatiana McMurrinUnited States · March 2023

Good times, my friend!

I had fun meeting new people and learning Spanish! My teacher Tatiana was fun and very informative. She made learning Spanish easy. She is a great teacher, very encouraging. Also, getting the chance to eat Costa Rican food was an experience. I enjoyed the night life and embracing the culture here. I have befriended a local here, he took me and my friend to downtown and we saw the museums and gave us history lessons. Despite the rain, I really liked walking around and looking at the architecture. The Dinner Dance was an experience. The view was gorgeous. I would love to come back!

Junita MiddletonUnited States · December 2022

A time to remember

I came to Maximo Nivel with the intent to improve my Spanish and I did that and so much more. I attended the institute in San Jose, Costa Rica for a month and it was a wonderful experience. The staff were super friendly, welcoming, and very resourceful. Literally any question that I had, they had an answer for. My time here was split between two Spanish teachers and although I was nervous of that at first, it turned out to be very beneficial. Both teachers had two completely different teaching styles and that helped me a lot. Because of my work schedule, I was unable to participate in many of the activities, but I did get a chance to take the salsa class and it was a lot of fun. We even learned how to dance Swing Criollo which is a popular dance particularly in Costa Rica. It was my first time hearing of it! If you are ever thinking about studying abroad or learning Spanish, I highly recommend this school. It is one of those things that you just have to experience for yourself. Thank you Maximo Nivel for making my first visit to Costa Rica a memorable one. 10/10!

Inez XNetherlands · October 2022

Learning Spanish in Costa Rica

I went to San Jose, Costa Rica, for 4 weeks to improve my Spanish language skills. The school facilitated my stay at a very nice host family. I got to meet a lot of international students and locals at this school. Furthermore, the travel agency located within the school helped me in my plans to explore Costa Rica during the weekend. It has been an AMAZING experience and I would recommend it to everyone!

Marissa HowserUnited States · September 2022

A fast and wonderful way to learn Spanish

I have spent 7 weeks at Maximo Nivel and I have had an amazing time! I spoke no spanish when i got here and i have noticed such a huge improvement from my classes and my immersion. I was at the San Jose campus, as well as the Quepos campus. San Jose is a great city with a lot to do! The classes themselves, are truly wonderful with very talented teachers. I did not do too many cultural activities while at the San Jose campus and you might need to request more information from the front desk . Overall, a great way to learn spanish!

D bradleyEngland · March 2019

Do it!

So pleased I did this - I highly recommend this course to any one on the fence/ thinking about if they should do it....you should! I didn't do much research and got very lucky - Audra is a fantastic teacher, I doubt there is anyone better teaching the TEFL course.

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Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 2025
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Volunteer Abroad
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Language School
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Volunteer Abroad
People’s Choice Award 2023 Finalist
Top Rated Language School 2022
Notable Mention 2021 - Gap Year
Top Rated Organization 2021 - Volunteer Abroad
Innovative TEFL / Teach Abroad Program 2021 Finalist
Top Rated Teach Abroad Organizations of 2020
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organizations of 2020 Notable Mentions
2019 Notable Mentions
NAFSA
ALTO - Association of Language Travel Organisations
GoAbroad Top Language Program 2018
GoAbroad Top TEFL Certification Program 2018
GoAbroad Top Language School 2018

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