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Study Abroad in Costa Rica

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Explore Costa Rica with CIEE

When you study abroad in Costa Rica, you can explore the incredible nature and unparalleled biodiversity of this Central American country. A biologist’s paradise, Monteverde, Costa Rica is home to over 2,500 species of plants, 60 species of amphibians, 100 species of mammals, and 450 bird species. 

Live in a biological paradise surrounded by the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and explore Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems through extensive travel and field study. Gain hands-on experience through an independent research project and participate in field trips, including a visit to Panama to observe marine diversity in the coral reefs off the Bocas del Toro Islands.

While abroad, students may enhance their academic experience by completing a full- or part-time internship in Costa Rica. This unique opportunity allows students to gain real-world international work experience, expand their professional networks, and develop valuable skills that complement their studies. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, manufacturing, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.

Whether you want to learn Spanish, go camping, hiking, snorkeling, or live in a homestay with a local family, study abroad in Costa Rica and experience something new every day. 

Study Abroad Programs in Costa Rica

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  • Monteverde, Costa Rica

Open Campus Block

  • Study Program
  • Part-Time Internship

...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!

View All Programs in Costa Rica

Study Abroad in Costa Rica Reviews

  • "Great experience; Trips were extremely fun and informative; Staff was really nice and helpful; Also, Costa Rica is a beautiful country with great people."

    Fayoni O., George Washington University

  • "I felt CIEE did a very good job responding well to pandemic restrictions and safety, while still maintaining many parts of the normal study abroad experience. I also appreciate the fact that they employ all or mostly academics, program coordinators, and staff from the country of study."

    Sylvie M., Indiana University-Bloomington

  • "I've studied abroad many times and the support and personal care CIEE has provided me ranks it as my best experience abroad."

    Emily F., Western Kentucky University

  • "The process of applying to arriving on campus was simple. CIEE provided aid through the entire process, making the transition more enjoyable!"

    Caela F., Ursinus College

Costa Rica Study Abroad Blog

monteverde study abroad hike forest CIEE
From CIEE

My Experience Hiking the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Lesleigh Taylor If you ever find yourself in the heart of Monteverde, a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve should be at the top of your list. Nestled... keep reading

student group abroad monteverde
From CIEE

Happy Earth Day: Today and Every Day

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Happy Earth Day! Every April 22, this global event comes around to remind us how precious our planet is, what sustainable efforts we can make to protect Earth, and that... keep reading

top spanish summer study abroad programs
From CIEE

Top 5 Spanish Study Abroad Programs for the Summer

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Summer school hasn’t always sounded the most appealing. But you’re probably thinking about it the old way: Stuck in a boring classroom while wishing you were doing anything else. Think... keep reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

Bordered by the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is best known for its beaches, biodiversity, and spectacular national parks, making it one of the best study abroad destinations for adventurous, nature-oriented students. When you study abroad in Costa Rica, you’ll experience lush jungles, exciting outdoor activities, Spanish language, and so much more!

One of the best places to study abroad in Costa Rica, Monteverde is a good place to study abroad for students interested in environmentalism and conservation. With one of the world’s most impressive coastlines, homestay and internship opportunities, and Spanish language immersion, Costa Rica is a good place to study abroad for students looking for adventure in Latin America. 

With tropical, warm weather year-round, students studying abroad in Costa Rica should consider packing any of the following items: raincoat, sunglasses, casual clothing, comfortable shoes, flip flops, hiking boots, a reusable water bottle, hats, and swimwear. We encourage students to pack items that will make them most comfortable while studying abroad.

The cost of studying abroad in Cost Rica varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Costa Rica study abroad program page.

For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.  

Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?

CIEE offers several Costa Rica Summer study abroad programs, including:

Check out our full list of Costa Rica study abroad programs. 

Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Costa Rica with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!

Search our internship opportunities to get started!

Discover More in Monteverde

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