Costa Rica is one of the most popular destinations for AFS Exchange Students, and with good reason.
Sunrise at cero degrees… in the tropics: AFS Costa Rica volunteer Jose Antonio “Chepe” Loaiciga led a group of three participants on their climb of Cerro Chirripo, the highest altitude in Costa Rica. From left to right: Chepe with Benjamin (USA, semester program), Leon (FRA, year program), Shane (USA, semester program)
Costa Rica is Spanish for “the rich coast,” and you’ll discover that it’s just another way of saying “paradise.” This lush country is located between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea with 755 miles of coastline. More than 30 percent of the country, including its famous rainforest, is set aside as national parkland or protected areas. Costa Rica has 500 bird species and 8,000 plant species that have been discovered so far, majestic volcanoes, countless rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, as well as some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see. The country combines rural towns, forests, farmlands, and small cities to create a laid back yet exciting ambiance. It is also home to proud, friendly, and peaceful citizens, known as “Ticos” (men) and “Ticas” (women).
Costa Rica is one of a handful of nations in the world that does not have an army. Instead, it spends heavily on health care and education, enabling Costa Ricans to enjoy an unparalleled quality of life in Latin America. Families are very close and meals typically contain rice, beans, corn, meat, chicken, or fish. You and your new Costa Rican friends will probably socialize in groups, enjoying movies, dancing, parties, sports, or community clubs. The country hosts more than 350 students from 21 countries each year and has more than 50 years of experience in the AFS Network.
AFS Costa Rica offers a variety of programs for those who wish to come and learn about our culture:
- School Year Program: From February to January or from July to June
- School Semester Program:” From February to August or from July to January
- Community Service, Semester. From February to August or from August to February
- Intensive Program, Homestay: From June to August
- Intensive Program, Language Study: From June to August
All our programs involve a host family stay, the best way to experience and learn from our rich and diverse culture.
To apply, please contact the AFS National Office in your home country
We are looking forward to meet you soon.
