Upcoming Program Dates: June 5 – July 18, 2026
University Credit: 6 U.S. semester credits
Study Environmental Science in One of the World’s Most Biodiverse Countries
Spend six unforgettable weeks in Costa Rica—home to lush rainforests, volcanoes, and rich ecosystems—while earning academic credit in Environmental Science and Biology. Through Expanish’s Summer Sessions at Veritas University in San José, students explore the natural world both in the classroom and in the field. This themed summer program blends hands-on coursework with cultural immersion in a setting unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Students choose 2 elective courses of environmentally focused topics, including:
Sustainable Development and the Environment
Marine Biology and Coastal Ecosystems
Tropical Ecology and Conservation
Each course includes 45 contact hours, held Monday through Thursday, taught in English.
Optional evening Spanish language classes are included to support cultural integration (non-credit).
Engage with Costa Rican culture and landscapes through exclusive program experiences:
Guided walking tour of San José
Traditional Costa Rican cooking class
Salsa dance class
One-day excursion to Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Choose from flexible accommodations based on your lifestyle and comfort:
Homestay: Includes breakfast and dinner daily for full cultural immersion with a local Costa Rican family
Shared Student Apartments/Residences: Independent living with international students and modern facilities
Environmental Science & Biology Summer Program
Environmental Science & Biology Summer Program
A 6-week immersive academic and cultural experience in Costa Rica.
Pricing variations reflect the housing you choose.
Program Inclusions:
- 6 U.S. semester credits (2 electives at Veritas University)
- Housing (Homestay or Shared Apartment/Residence)
- Weekly Cultural Activities
- 1-Day Excursion to Arenal
- Airport Pickup Service
- Welcome & Farewell Group Meals
- Welcome Tour & Cultural Workshop (Cooking/Dance)
Costa Rica Student Life
Make Costa Rica your classroom. From exploring rainforests and coral reefs to connecting with fellow international students, your experience will be as transformative personally as it is academically.
Earn 6 U.S. semester credits in just 6 weeks. All coursework is designed to align with U.S. credit transfer policies—perfect for science majors looking to stay on track while gaining global perspective.
Learn more about earning credit here.
We offer cost-effective program options and scholarship opportunities to help you fund your experience in Costa Rica. Reach out to explore your financial aid possibilities.
Explore Financial Options here.
No prior Spanish requiredMinimum 2.5 GPAOpen to students from freshman to senior yearMust be at least 18 years old by the program start date
What to Expect: From Application to Arrival
Submit your application through our quick and easy online form.
We’ll walk you through every step—from housing options to course details—to make sure you're fully prepared.
Plan to arrive by Sunday, June 4, to settle in before classes begin.
Meet your classmates, enjoy orientation, and dive into Costa Rican culture and nature.
Student Success Stories
Great language school! Made most of my friends from the school because it's such a fun and conversational environment! Enjoyed the staff and the after class activities.
One of my favorite parts about studying abroad was living with my host mom. Expanish did a really good job pairing me and my friend with her because we have a lot of the same interests and we had a lot to talk about.
It was also nice that our group did activities together from the beginning because this allowed us all to get to know each other really well and have a good network of peers while we all lived/studied here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about our Summer Sessions program in Valencia. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact us directly—we’re happy to help!
What is the weekend excursion?
Will my credits transfer to my home university?
Is Spanish required to join the program?
How can I ensure my university will accept my credits from Expanish Costa Rica?
From the blog
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