Discover Study Abroad in San José, Costa Rica

Experience Costa Rica’s vibrant capital, an unforgettable blend of academic opportunity, cultural immersion, and adventurous “Pura Vida” lifestyle that makes studying abroad truly life-changing. Located in the heart of Central America, San José combines a safe urban environment with rainforest, volcanoes, and Caribbean & Pacific coast access just hours away.

Eco-focused academics aligned with global sustainability goals
Cross-cultural experiences through community service and excursions
Global network development with peers from around the world.

Study Abroad Programs in San José

Semester Research Program

Dolphins swimming near boats on a bright blue ocean in Costa Rica.

Summer Research Program

Why Study Abroad in San José, Costa Rica?

Studying abroad in San José means more than earning credit, it’s about exploring diverse ecosystems, practicing Spanish daily, and connecting with global thinkers in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries.

🌿 Rich Cultural Immersion

Learn Spanish, explore historic neighborhoods, coffee plantations, and artisan markets.

📚 Academic Rigor + Credit Transfer

Courses in Environmental Science, Biology, or Spanish language transfer to U.S. universities.

🏞 Unbeatable Natural Access

From rainforests to volcanoes, every weekend is an outdoor adventure.

☀️ Warm, Tropical Climate

Year-round sunshine supports field study and eco-tourism.

Where Will You Study in San José?

We partner with local university, Veritas University, so that our students have a chance to dive into the local culture in a supportive and welcoming environement.

Dry Season (Dec-Apr)
Rainy Season (May-Nov)

Why Choose Us for Costa Rica Study Abroad

Students live, learn, and explore with support from local coordinators and professors, gaining practical skills and global perspective. Studying abroad in Costa Rica with our programs means personalized support, academic excellence, and unforgettable experiences.

Local Costa Rican staff guiding you every step of the way.

Local host family stays and safe student housing options.

Academic partnerships with regional universities.

Dynamic urban study center in walkable neighborhoods.

24/7 safety support and cultural orientation.

Spanish language classes paired with cultural excursions.

Budget-friendly options with flexible program courses.

Adventure trips to volcanoes, national parks, and beaches.

Hear From Our Students

I love the environment in Expanish created by the people working there, everyone was very sweet and welcoming, they were very approachable and kind! I loved coming to expanish after class to eat or do homework and watching TSITP is definitely a core memory!

Sarah Marin
University of California
USA

Genuinely the best experience and was more than I could've ever imagined. Overall, an amazing and unforgettable experience that you will not regret at all!

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Jake Holguin
USA

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and my experience with Expanish in Buenos Aires was nothing short of incredible. If you’re considering studying abroad or learning Spanish in Buenos Aires, I cannot recommend Expanish enough.

Clara Steele
University of California

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.

Broc Renicks
United States
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From the Blog

Student Life

6 Incredible Ways Living in a Homestay Shapes Your Abroad Experience

When it comes to living abroad, there are dozens of different living options for students of all ages. We recommend that if students want to achieve the fully immersive experience and maximize their language learning, they should consider living in a homestay an absolute must. There are countless advantages of living in a homestay while living abroad, but if you’re still on the fence about it, consider the following ways that living with a host family can enhance your abroad experience.

Audrey Smith
Spanish Schools

Different ways of Approaching Spanish

Are you new to learning Spanish and aren’t really sure how to approach studying a foreign language? There are a variety of ways to learn and improve your Spanish. As an accredited Spanish school in Buenos Aires, we’ve had years perfecting our craft, meaning that teaching students Spanish is what we do best. Here are 5 tips to learn and improve your Spanish.

Audrey Smith

7 Things You Learn (Besides the Language) While Abroad

Studying overseas can be a life-changing experience. Courses abroad like the one offered by Expanish, not only offer you the possibility of learning a new language, but you will also gain some life-changing experiences. Here are a few ways in which a language course abroad will reshape your life.

Louisa Bayburtian

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