San Jose, Costa Rica

In partnership with Morton College and Costa Rica Language Academy, the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP) offers a summer month-long program to the beautiful city of San Jose, Costa Rica.

Summer

At A Glance:

Adventure awaits as you explore beautiful Costa Rica, a rugged Central American country with numerous rainforests and scenic coastlines on both the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. Although its capital, San Jose, is home to cultural institutions like the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, Costa Rica is known for its beaches, volcanoes, and biodiversity. Roughly a quarter of its area is made up of protected jungle, teeming with wildlife including spider monkeys and quetzal birds.

Program Description:

At the Costa Rican Language Academy (CRLA) in San Jose, students study Spanish in small classes with native speakers.

Academics
  • Students enroll in 6-7 credits at their home institution. Spanish is offered at six levels: Beginning I/II, Intermediate I/II and Advanced I/II. Students also enroll in Culture and Civilization of Costa Rica, which combines classroom lectures with experiential learning through local excursion to museums, historical sites and wildlife preserves. No previous study of Spanish is required.
Accommodations
  • Students are housed with carefully selected local families in double-occupancy rooms. This is an excellent means to practice and enhancement Spanish speaking abilities and learn about the Costa Rican culture. Daily breakfast and dinner, of typical Costa Rican cuisine and local produce, is provided at the homestay. Laundry service is also included in the homestay.
Excursions and Extra-curriculars
Eligibility
  • 18 years or older
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA (on 4.0 scale)
  • Completion of at least 12 college credits by the time of departure
  • Completion of one college writing course (commonly known as English Composition I and/or II, or its equivalent) with a grade of B or better, by the time of departure.
Dates/Fees/Deadlines - How to apply?
  • March 1
Other Important Info: (VISA, flights, etc)

Additional Information

Enroll in the U.S. Dept of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://secure.login.gov/  to receive important updates about your destination. STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to register planned travel abroad. Get updates about health, weather, safety, and security for your destination. Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy. Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

Travel Tips

  • Before you depart, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
  • Always keep digital and physical copies of important documents like your passport, visa, and insurance details.
  • Research the local transportation options and familiarize yourself with the best routes to your university and other key locations.

    • Health and Safety

    Stay informed about any health advisories or vaccination requirements for your destination. It’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation. Consider packing a travel first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Familiarize yourself with the local healthcare system and know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic at your destination.

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