Education in Costa Rica
High-quality education and a robust educational system are well-known strengths of Costa Rica. In Costa Rica, students have the chance to enroll in some of the top educational institutions in the world. Because of the exceptional high standards of Costa Rican education, companies from all over the world are particularly interested in hiring Costa Rican graduates from its schools and colleges.
Primary education, secondary education, and tertiary education are the three levels of the Costa Rican educational system. For all children ages 6 to 12, primary schooling is required. For all youngsters ages 13 to 18, secondary schooling is required. Although tertiary education is not required, many students opt to continue their education after finishing secondary school by enrolling in a university or another higher education program.
The University of Costa Rica, the largest and most prominent university in the nation, is only one of the many highly regarded colleges and universities in Costa Rica. The Technological Institute of Costa Rica, the National University of Costa Rica, and the Escuela de Artes y Ciencias del Lenguaje are a few more well-known institutions.
Due to its high educational standards and stunning natural surroundings, Costa Rica is a desirable location for international students. The people of Costa Rica are well recognized for their kind hospitality, and the country is secure and stable. Costa Rica is undoubtedly a great option if you’re thinking about studying abroad.
Public schools in Costa Rica
Education is required till the age of 18 and public schools are free. Every kid in Costa Rica between the ages of six and eighteen is entitled to free primary and secondary education. Public institutions offer free higher education to all citizens and residents of Costa Rica.
The Costa Rican educational system is built on the American model, with English instruction becoming more prevalent in schools and universities. International students can easily get used to studying in Costa Rica because of this.
Private schools in Costa Rica
Although private schools have tuition costs, they often provide a better education than public ones. Private schools are a wonderful choice for overseas students since they frequently provide instruction in English. Whether you’re searching for a public or private school, you have a lot of great options.
Some of the best international schools in Costa Rica include:
The British School of Costa Rica: The British School of Costa Rica is an accredited international school that offers a curriculum based on the English National Curriculum. The school has 2 campuses, one in Escazu and one in Santa Ana.
The International School of Costa Rica: The International School of Costa Rica is an accredited IB World School that offers programs for students aged 3 to 18 years old. The school has 2 campuses, one in Heredia and one in Alajuela.
The Costa Rican-American Educational Foundation (CREDE): CREDE is an accredited international school that offers programs for students aged 3 to 18 years old. The school has 2 campuses, one in San Jose and one in Heredia.
These are just a few of the many excellent schools that are available in Costa Rica. If you are looking for a high quality education for your child, you are sure to find a school that meets your needs.
School year in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, the academic year spans from February to either November or December. Regular breaks for students last two weeks in April and three months from July to September.
Sports, music, and art are just a few of the extracurricular activities that are often offered by schools. Numerous schools also provide community service initiatives that allow students the chance to give back to their surroundings.
If you’re thinking about studying abroad, Costa Rica is a great option. The country has friendly people, stunning natural landscapes, and excellent educational opportunities. You’ll have a great experience studying in Costa Rica, no doubt!
Most educational classes hold lessons Monday through Friday, with a half-day on Saturday. Sunday lessons are also offered by several schools.
Scholarships
International students wishing to further their studies in Costa Rica have access to a wide variety of scholarships. Scholarships are typically offered by the government, universities, or private organizations.
Make sure to look into scholarship options if you’re thinking about attending school in Costa Rica. You can definitely locate a scholarship that fits your requirements with a little bit of investigation.
Best 10 International Schools in San Jose
1. The British School
Curriculum – IB, British
Age – 3-18
Language – English, Spanish
Location – Pavas
Website – HERE.
2. Lighthouse International School
Curriculum – IB, American, Christian
Age – 3-18
Language – English
Location – San Rafael de Escazu
Website – HERE.
3. The European School
Curriculum – IB
Age – 3-18
Language – English
Location – San Pablo, Heredia
Website – HERE.
4. Pan-American School
Curriculum – IB, American, Costa Rican
Age – 2-18
Language – English, Spanish
Location – San Antonio de Belen, Heredia
Website – HERE.
5. International Christian School
Curriculum – IB, Christian, Costa Rican
Age – 2-18
Language – English
Location – Santo Domingo, Heredia
Website – HERE.
6. American International School
Curriculum – American, Costa Rican
Age – 3-18
Language – English
Location – Cariari, Heredia
Website – HERE.
7. United World College
Curriculum – IB, Costa Rican
Age – 16-18
Language – English, Spanish
Location – Santa Ana, San Jose
Website – HERE.
8. Humboldt Schule
Curriculum – German
Age – 3-18
Language – German
Location – Pavas, San Jose
Website – HERE.
9. Berkeley Academy
Curriculum – American, Costa Rican
Age – 3-18
Language – English
Location – Santa Ana, San Jose
Website – HERE.
10. Golden Valley School
Curriculum – IB
Age – 3-18
Language – English, Spanish
Location – San Francisco San Isidro, Heredia
Website – HERE.
Schools providing special needs program:
The following schools provide the most comprehensive approach for parents of children with special needs to completely develop their children’s intellectual and affective-social potential. Through treatments and educational programs that are individualized for each student, their educational system offers children and parents dynamic support:
- Monterrey Christian School (San Pedro, San Jose)
- Centro Educativo Kallpa (Bello Horizonte, Escazu);
- Pan-American School (San Antonio de Belen, Heredia).
Need Residency in Costa Rica? – CLICK HERE.
Looking for Real Estate? – CLICK HERE.
Need to borrow money? – CLICK HERE.
Want to invest? – CLICK HERE.