Local classmates will show you the meaning of pura vida. There are tons of lesser known places that are beautiful and rich in culture where you can really experience what Costa Rica is all about! This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Paint a school, work with children, or visit Territorio de Zaguates, a local dog sanctuary home to over 900 lucky dogs! We have three amazing study options for you in our Summer in Costa Rica program! Program Director: Sarah Mincey O’Neill in Costa Rica is a three-credit course (E482/E582/V482/V582). Lisa was born in Costa Rica and has lived in the United States on several occasions. Elevation plays a role in the climate of various areas as well. Beautiful national parks, picturesque mountain villages, and relaxed beach towns are nearby and easily accessible. Our Costa Rica program is ideal for high school students with a strong interest in environmental sustainability, and particularly regenerative agriculture and organic farming. Summer Multidisciplinary and Environmental Studies in Costa Rica What's Included Students who choose to study abroad in San José through API’s Multidisciplinary and Environmental Studies Program at the Universidad Veritas have the option to focus on improving their Spanish skills, complete elective courses in English or Spanish, or both! Costa Rica Exploration (5 Days) It is time for cruising and hiking, beaches and butterflies. Soak in the naturally heated waters of Baldi Hot Springs and enjoy the view of Arenal, which is a perfect cone volcano. Summer in Costa Rica at Universidad Veritas offers varied courses that help you earn credit toward graduation while gaining fluency in Spanish. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past. See this course offerings sheet for more details – and do note that just because a course is listed here does not mean it is guaranteed to run. But you don't need to head straight to the beach—travelers flying into urban San José will find plenty to do with kids upon arrival. We got you – and it’s easier than you may think. Easthampton, MA 01027. Students are required to take a Spanish language course and can choose to take either a bioengineering or a math course." Prices are based on round trip travel and hotel stay per traveler. After packing to leave the hotel, spend the morning at a coffee tour/demonstration of some of the country’s finest! August 2 – Virgin of Los Angeles Day. Browse our programs by major. COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE Thanks for visiting Summer Coast Realty web page, we are working on your behalf trying to get the best properties, deals and opportunities on the Gold Coast. From the moment you first hear from us—be it through a text, phone call, email or personal visit—you will find that our passion for international education is contagious. During this month, you can travel to Costa Rica without the fear of balmy temperatures. Summer is over for us mere mortals, but for Robert August, well, it never ends. Food, Forests, & Community: Sustaining Costa Rica (3cr.). Veritas offers many cultural, artistic, and athletic activities so you can dive deep into the local culture. Located minutes from the heart of San José, Universidad Veritas is considered one of the best private universities in all of Central America. Drink fresh juice from local fruits. Volunteer in Costa Rica and discover one of the most sustainable countries on earth. ADVISOR TIP: Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Your departure and arrival airports are the same. Interactive museums, local markets, and more are a … After serving with the communities and children of Costa Rica , immersing into the local culture of San Jose and learning Spanish for three weeks, it is time for incredible travels through the Costa Rica tropical splendor. Guide to Surfing Costa Rica >> The Surf in Costa Rica . Our experienced homestay families are fully vetted to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for you. You can join on-campus activities, such as dance or cooking classes and intramural sports. Accredited by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education and authorized by the National Council of Private Higher Education (Consejo Nacional de Enseñanza Superior Privada, or CONESUP). Directed by Jason Matthews. Language and Culture Exploration, Session 1 and 2: Students may either take one elective course for $4,290 or an elective and a Spanish course for $4,890. Its flora and fauna are adapted to these conditions, meaning that they are tropical as well. She is an alumni of Veritas University, where she majored in photography, and is currently pursuing her bachelors degree in Tourism and Hotel Management. “The staff group is truly … Costa Rica Adult Surf Camp Package Surf Camp owner, Jason Senn, has travelled extensively throughout the world as both a professional and recreational surfer and he has found Costa Rica to be one of his favorite destinations. Then, spend the evening with new friends in the Plaza de la Cultura watching the pigeons and a marimba band. Cons: Sometimes the weather in Costa Rica is unpredictable in June, mid-day showers are a common occurrence. Students flock to the Universidad Veritas for its art, design, and architecture programs, but the university offers so much more. More often than not, locals will respect and respond matching the effort that you put into communication. For a list of intensive Spanish language courses, please click here. Connect with our advisors via email and text! Study abroad for a summer in San José, Costa Rica, to improve your Spanish, take fascinating courses in English, and check out all that this amazing country has to offer. Program fees are in US dollars and include the following: On your first day in Costa Rica, you’ll have a chance to walk and get to know your new city. Over the summer, I visited San Jose, Costa Rica for 8 weeks. San José is the bustling capital of Costa Rica and the place to learn about the country’s fascinating culture. These are the best fares found by travelers who searched Tripadvisor in the past recent weeks. Considering this small nation contains five percent of the world’s biodiversity and acts as a pioneer in sustainability efforts, it’s an ideal place to study the environmental sciences. I learned so much about who I am while being…, My summer was amazing because of CIS Abroad. CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities. Enjoy small class sizes that give you one-on-one attention, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced Spanish speaker. Find that hole-in-the-wall restaurant that will probably serve the best meal of your time abroad (and it will likely cost less too!). Range of temperatures is almost same. Food, art, and people flow in from all directions. Study Spanish language exclusively, or study Spanish and another course from a variety of topics (mostly locally focused) in English or Spanish. BOLDLY COMMITTED to providing the best experience abroad, 3 Ferry Street, Studio 2W Following the online (written) placement exam, you will be assessed orally by staff in Costa Rica via Skype, allowing you to be placed in the most appropriate language level before you arrive in Costa Rica. Session II courses offered focus on general STEM, social sciences and business. When in doubt, reach out! Spend time coaching kids soccer in a favella or volunteering in the Amazon. Jackie Chapman was one of those pe…, Great base for exploring the mountains, jungles, volcanoes, and beaches, Study on the lush, sustainable campus of a highly ranked private university in San José, Cooking classes, dance classes, and sports events to help you meet your local and international classmates, Choose from a wide courses taught in English, from business to tropical ecology to photography, Small, engaging Spanish classes for all language levels, International Operations Manager - Spain and Latin America, Copyright © 2020 Center for International Studies, Study Abroad Programs Open for Spring 2021, Intern Abroad for Academic Credit - Virtual Intern, 4-week Spanish language intensive: 1 intensive Spanish course course (5 US credits), 5-week Spanish language and culture – 2 courses: 1 intensive Spanish course and 1 elective course (8-9 US credits), 8-week Spanish language and culture – 3 courses: 2 intensive Spanish courses and 1 elective course (13-14 US credits), CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program. In this reserve, you’ll see the staggering environmental diversity from skywalks and bridges suspended 60 meters up in the canopy. The establishment has artifacts from the pre-Columbian time period, as well as cannons from the colonial time period. Learn all about what makes this lucrative crop so delicious, and some of the history behind it. Temperature variations are low because the country is located near the Equator, so the main difference between the seasons is found in the rains. Once you’re accepted into the program, we will send you instructions for taking a two-part online placement exam so that Veritas can begin to assess your level of Spanish. Those that want to relive the history of Costa Rica will want to make a stop at the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica. See important landmarks in downtown San Jose, such as the National Theater and Gold Museum, and enjoy the welcome lunch where you’ll try some local goodies! There truly aren't words to describe the happiness I experienced while abroad in Cusco this past summer. A titillating teen comedy, a young surfer and his friends head to Costa Rica to save his beautiful aunt's beach motel, resurrect an old surf champion and find enough waves and women to make for a totally tasty time. more. Founded in 1976, Veritas is the first private university in Costa Rica. Food and drink can be an excellent inroad to getting to know another culture. Costa Rica is most famous for its wildlife and coffee. Autumn in Costa Rica. Session I courses offered focus on creative arts, health and wellness, and Spanish. Study in Costa Rica to uncover the impressive biodiversity and high level of environmental awareness for which the country is known. Minority Students Summer Program in Costa Rica (African American, Hispanic American, Native American, Alaskan Natives, Pacific Islanders) With funding from the National Science Foundation’s LSAMP Program, OTS offers a research experience for students from … The really crazy part – Costa Rica is still not on the top 10 of Latin America’s most visited countries. It is best to get 2–3 elective classes approved before you go abroad. Dont limit yourself to the more popular tourist spots. Imagine sipping some of the best coffee in the world and nibbling on a churro with friends at a local café. Get ready to indulge in both! When selecting a Spanish-language course, choose the one whose description best reflects your current abilities. Costa Rica is home to dozens of microclimates, which offer pockets of sunshine even during the rainiest months. Note: contrary to predictions from the Costa Rican weather services that El Niño would delay or mitigate the onset, the 2019 rainy season is right on time and more intense than normal. She speaks Spanish, English and Portuguese, and is currently learning French. Most of the host families (95 percent) are located within walking distance of the university, although students can also use public transportation. Central / South America. Tortuguero is next the Caribbean Sea, and the weather there is wet and humid, and rainy most of the year. What better way to experience true Tico cooking!? As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses. It has minor changes through whole year. In Costa Rica, verano, meaning summer, applies during the traditional northern hemisphere winter months.It refers to the Costa Rican dry season. After class, you can head to one of the many local theaters, concert venues, cinemas, or salsa clubs. August 15 – Mother´s Day. We’re ready to launch you abroad. During the rainy season from May to November, heavy rains can cause flooding, wash out roads, or even temporarily cut off some destinations. Costa Rica is famous for its numerous . Costa Rica is located between Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Central American destinations, like Costa Rica… There are beautiful days all year long–even in the wet season, there will be periods of absolute perfection. At the end of each block, you will be tested and then have the opportunity to move to a higher level. You’ll need to buy your own lunch, but your host family will cook you both breakfast and dinner. However, specific package prices and availability for your selected dates from your departure city change rapidly as they are subject to availability from our partners and cannot be guaranteed. There are plenty of international restaurants, ranging from Lebanese to Italian, in addition to local sodas, where you can eat large helpings of gallo pinto, the delicious national dish. Take some time to go play with the pups in this Dog Heaven and help out the organization. Practice makes perfect, and leaving your comfort zone means expanding your comfort zone! Dine with a host family. While there will be afternoon showers, the mornings are bright and sunny. Take a hike down to the La Fortuna Waterfall, where you’ll be able to swim in the cool water. You’ll live with a local “Tico” family and truly immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture. You can take courses in a range of topics, such as Costa Rican culture, environmental studies, or political science. Swim, surf, sail, kayak, or jet ski in the ocean — or ride horses on the beach! Students typically say that living with a local family was their favorite part of traveling abroad. Dates posted here are subject to change. At an altitude of over 1,000 meters, the trees capture cloud moisture, often giving the area 100 percent humidity. We’ll walk you through some of the things to expect, rehash your time abroad so that you can remember the highlights and, yep, we’ll feed you again as part of our farewell to Costa Rica. Frontier - Costa Rica Big Cats, Primates & Turtle Conservation—9.0 Rating. Summer study abroad Spain, France, and Costa Rica exchange programs offer teens language classes, homestay, cultural immersion, university credit, and excursions/activities with great chaperones. Your Sustainable Summer experience will span from Costa Rica’s legendary Pacific beaches to the tropical rainforests near its Caribbean coast. As a CIS Abroad student in San José, you’ll get to know local Costa Ricans (aka Ticos), who have a friendly, laid-back demeanor. Veritas is a great place to learn more about Costa Rica’s history, culture, environment, politics, and more! The mountainous area of Monteverde is dense with tropical rainforest. You can improve your Spanish outside of the classroom with a Costa Rican language-exchange partner. I took 3 classes, lived with a host family and visited all 7 provinces in the country. Museo Nacional de Costa Rica. Veritas is a great place to learn more about Costa Rica’s history, culture, environment, politics, and more! Though you’re not an astronaut returning from space, re-entering your home culture after being abroad can be shocking to the system. Most CIS Abroad participants are awarded scholarships and grants! But is Costa Rica safe for tourists?! You’ll really immerse yourself with a homestay! Language courses are taught in blocks. In Tamarindo, December is a time of bright sun, few clouds, and fewer and fewer afternoon rain showers. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Every day I felt excited to see and experience something new…, In Spring 2018, I studied abroad in Quito, Ecuador, with CIS Abroad. Foreigners have been traveling to Costa Rica since the 1990s and the country had a record-breaking year in 2015, with over 2 million tourists visiting the country. There may still be courses available. However, specific package prices and availability for your selected dates from your departure city change rapidly as they are subject to availability from our partners and cannot be guaranteed. Enjoy the tour and learn all about the history and architecture of this gem of San Jose! Enjoy an amazing campus setting at Universidad Veritas, a local, private university with an impressive approach to sustainability. Costa Rica Real Estate. It doesn’t get much better than this. Worried about funding your intern or study abroad experience? Surf Seasons in Costa Rica photo via Elite Beach Villas. Costa Rica lies at the southern end of Central America near the equator, so it's "summer" weather is a lot different than what you'd find in more temperate latitudes like the United States or Canada. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from mid-December to April (the dry season). Let’s just start by saying: anytime is a good time to surf in Costa Rica. If you’re looking to improve your Spanish language skills, Veritas’ Spanish language program is for you. With Peter Dante, Pamela Anderson, Brock Kelly, Max Van Ville. Sign up to learn more about programs in Costa Rica! Take advantage of this one night where all the museums in San Jose are open to the public (that's right, they're free!!). Visitors and residents adore the street food in San José or grabbing a cheap and cheerful meal at Mercado Central. Study in English or Spanish depending on your needs. Volunteer to save baby sea turtles in Costa Rica or work with Costa Rica's unique wildlife.It is the home of lush jungles, numerous national parks and … In fact, the two rainiest months throughout most of Costa Rica – September and October – are actually the two sunniest months on the Caribbean coast. Being minutes from the heart of the Costa Rican capital, you can explore the city with ease. Located on the northwest Pacific coast, Tamarindo Bay is ideal if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or some down time on the beach. We love what we do and want to talk to you! Course load based on program option choice: Course approval for Spanish language courses: Spanish Placement Exam. The Global Advising Center is here to help you decide on a program, and complete the Online Application. Come to Costa Rica and you won’t have to look far for good food. She is passionate about travel, and has had 10 years of experience leading study abroad groups all throughout Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Panama. While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. With 1,500 Costa Rican students and over 500 students from around the world, you’ll benefit from a close-knit but cosmopolitan campus. Elective Courses (in English and Spanish): All: For descriptions of English and Spanish electives, please click here. Costa Rica’s global reputation for environmental and sustainability practices is impressive, but these practices are relatively new following a period (from 1950-1990) of extreme forest loss and environmental degradation. Costa Rica has one of the most advanced economies in Latin America making it a preferred destination for interns of all backgrounds looking for a unique experience abroad. Finally, you can get to know the community through local excursions or volunteer opportunities. Spend your weekends exploring volcanoes, zip-lining through the jungle, or visiting a sloth sanctuary. In her free time Lisa enjoys going to art exhibits, watching movies, dancing and learning new languages. Costa Rica aspires to be the first carbon-neutral country by 2021. They made me feel like home even though I w…, Even from when I was picked up at the airport, I knew that CIS Abroad staff in Australia and back home had my back. Course approval for electives: Costa Rica Summer Weather. "The University’s new Pratt in Costa Rica program—specially designed for students majoring in biomedical engineering or electrical and computer engineering—is a six-week summer homestay based in San Jose, Costa Rica. During orientation you’ll learn all about excursions, your home stay, and what to expect of your time in Costa Rica. We have been helping people buy and sell real estate in the Guanacaste province since 2003. The climate in Costa Rica is hot all year round in the plains and along the coasts, while it's milder in the plateau, that is, in the so-called tierras templadas. Eat some recommended street food. Try some of the world's best coffee in one of the many coffee shops around town, or take the Coffee Tour, where you'll learn about the history of Costa Rica and coffee production in the country. Autumn is the wettest season in Costa Rica for is the heist of rainy season. For most of Costa Rica, including Tamarindo, December marks the official beginning of the “dry season,” also known as the “high season” (for tourism) or “summer” (verano) to Costa Ricans. I LOVED my host family I stayed with. Drink coffee the local way. There doesn’t seem to be anything documented in local textbooks or dictionaries providing a clarification. Likewise, you can use the capital as your launching point to discover the rest of this friendly country. Download our FREE guide to Funding Your Program Abroad. Don't see your major listed here? You'll also have a chance to see some amazing dance and music performances, as well as buy designer products made by locals! Summer in Costa Rica at Universidad Veritas offers varied courses that help you earn credit toward graduation while gaining fluency in Spanish. These are the best fares found by travelers who searched Tripadvisor in the past recent weeks. Take part in a volunteer project and give back to the community. Costa Rica offers many rivers with level four and five rapids. Costa Rica is a place of evergreen nature and lively culture. Costa Rica abounds with wildlife and outdoor activities, setting the scene for an ideal family vacation. That’s pretty popular if you ask us. A 'Little Summer' in Costa Rica The period of reprieve from the rain, lasting only a few weeks, can occur sometime between July and August -- a time when prices at the hotels and resorts can be as much as half off the cost of staying later in the year. July 25 – Guanacaste Day. Summer Holidays. This page explains why some regions in Costa Rica are sunny when others are rainy. Popular destinations in Costa Rica Prices are based on round trip travel and hotel stay per traveler. I spent my summer in Barcelona, Spain and Sorrento, Italy on their multi-country program and everything a…, Having the opportunity to live in Australia for 4 amazing months is thanks to CIS Abroad. This way you will have plenty of classes to choose from and some flexibility in setting up your schedule. Costa Rica lies in an active seismic zone; small earthquakes are commonplace and authorities sometime limit access to national parks near active volcanoes for safety. This is a national museum, which showcases Costa Rica’s past. From Brazil to Mexico and many other countries in between, South and Central America make for a great summer volunteer destination. Plus, you can visit the leatherback turtle reserves to spot these incredible creatures. Costa Rica is located in this region, which gives its ecological surroundings – its forests, waters, soils and climate – certain tropical characteristics. Chepe, as the city is known locally, is famed for its National Theater, busy market life, and easy-to-use public transportation. Costa Rica’s two seasons are the dry “summer” (verano) – January through April and rainy “winter” (invierno) – May through December.. Pacific Side. July: ‘Veranillo’ aka Costa Rica’s ‘Little Summer’ Pros: The weather is much more predictable by July in Costa Rica.