Where Environmental Passion and Natural Wonders Meet
Love nature? Costa Rica won’t disappoint. With more than 300 waterfalls, 200 volcanoes, and 300 beaches, you’ll never run out of outdoor adventures.
In addition to natural beauty, Costa Rica is known for its deep commitment to preservation and environmental stewardship, making it an ideal place to appreciate and learn to protect the world around you.
Why study abroad in Costa Rica?
Education style. Expect emphasis on independent, self-directed learning. Class sizes vary, from large lectures to smaller lab settings, depending on your program.
Cultural orientation. Rooted in the philosophy of “pura vida” (pure life), Costa Rican culture is laid-back, joyful, and stress-free. With a strong focus on family and a deep appreciation for nature, its culture blends Indigenous and Spanish influences.
Student lifestyle. With heavy emphasis on community, it’s easy to engage with locals through meals and community events.
Costa Rican cities popular among study abroad students to visit or live:
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is home to more than one million people. It’s not only the geographic center of the country but also the hub of its economic and political activity. Here, you’ll find a lively metropolitan area filled with restaurants, parks, museums, and theaters.
Heredia is known for its natural landscapes and colonial history, reflected in its architecture. The city is also a cultural hub that celebrates local cuisine, music, and dance. While known for its proximity to lush mountains and rainforests, Heredia is also an economic center, hosting the headquarters of many major corporations.
Alajuela, known as the “City of Mangoes,” features over 20 century-old mango trees in its central park. The city is an ideal destination for nature lovers, with easy access to Arenal Volcano, Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
Cartago is rich in natural beauty and cultural history. In addition to volcanoes and lush gardens, it’s home to the Basílica Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, a church famous for the Black Virgin statue. The city also boasts significant archaeological sites, such as Guayabo National Monument and Ruinas de la Parroquia.
Limón is another great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, snorkeling, canal cruises, and rainforest exploration. It’s also home to the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica.
Costa Rica study abroad highlights
Language spoken
Spanish
Capitals
San José
Common housing types
Homestays
Known for
Cloud forests, volcanoes, rainforests, biodiversity, coffee and cacao culture, indigenous tradition, and environmental conservation
Time zone
CST (GMT-6)
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Fun facts
Ranked as one of the world’s happiest countries. The first nation to reverse deforestation. The name “Costa Rica” originates from the Spanish words for “Rich Coast”
IFSA programs in Costa Rica
IFSA offers programs designed to align with your goals.
Yes! IFSA offers a range of scholarships, including need-based awards and destination-specific funding. View scholarships.
What excursions and activities are typically* offered?
Sarchí oxcart painting workshop
Gender identity in Costa Rica workshop
Visit to an Indigenous Territory
Cloud forest and sustainability experience
Family farm and agricultural traditions visit
Day trip to Sarapiqui to participate in native tree reforestation
Sustainable chocolate farm and processing plant visit
Meeting with owners of environmentally friendly hotels to discuss ecotourism *Excursions vary by term, year, and location
What sports are popular in Costa Rica?
Football (soccer). Costa Rica’s most popular sport, considered the nation’s pastime. The national team is called La Sele, and there are several professional teams throughout the country.
Surfing. This coastal country has many world-class surfing locations and options for every skill level, making it a popular destination for passionate surfers.
Beach volleyball. In addition to water sports, Costa Rican beaches host an active beach volleyball scene.
“When we ventured into the breathtaking tropical rainforest, I felt like a wild horse set free. Being surrounded by nature felt like returning to myself—where I belong. Nature has a way of dissolving our barriers, grounding us in the moment, and in doing so, it reminded me of my purest, most unburdened self.” —Shiyi C., IFSA January in Costa Rica
“In Costa Rica, I improved my Spanish, made many new friends, climbed mountains by myself, visited volcanoes, and grew as a person. Studying abroad with IFSA allowed me to do so many things, and my weekend at Planet One World was one that I will remember for my lifetime.” —Nic G., IFSA Universidad Nacional Partnership, Costa Rica
