¡Pura Vida!

5ram Description:

ICISP offers a summer language immersion program in San Jose, Costa Rica. 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.

At the Costa Rican Language Academy (CRLA) in San Jose, students study Spanish in small classes with native speakers. This total immersion experience includes a month-long homestay.

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.

Trips, Excursions and Activities:
Included in the program are numerous excursions throughout San Jose and the surrounding areas. Visit places such as Tortuguero National Park, Arenal and Poas volcanos, Grecias and Sarchi. Explore the Central Valley and tour a coffee plantation, the Caribbean Sea shores, local hot springs, and the Diquis region to experience the vast diversity and agricultural resources of Costa Rica. Students also have free time to explore on their own.

Room and Board:
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.

Eligibility:

  • 18 years or older
  • 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale for college students
  • Community members are welcome to participate

Application Deadlines:

  • February 15, 2025 for Summer 2025 program. Space permitting, late applications may be accepted.

Click here for the program flyer for 2025.

 For additional information:

Please contact the ICISP representative at your home institution for an application. Click here for a list of all ICISP repsentatives and their contact information.

 

 

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