High School in Costa Rica
Experience the celebrated "Pura Vida" culture by living with a host family and going to a local school in Costa Rica.
Starting date: February 2027
Yearly Program
Places Available
Places Available
Semester Program
Places Available
Places Available
Costa Rica, with its stunning coasts, mountains, volcanoes, and rich biodiversity, is deeply committed to ecological preservation.
Known for its peaceful spirit and “pura vida” lifestyle, this democratic nation welcomes newcomers with warmth and vibrant cultural traditions.
Admission requirements
Winter departures: Participants must be between 15 and 17.9 years old on the day of departure.
Summer departures: Participants must be between 15 and 17 years old on the day of departure.
The AFS program
You’ll spend a year, semester, or trimester attending high school in your host community. A carefully chosen AFS host family will welcome you for a fully immersive experience.
AFS provides training, orientation, and activities throughout your stay. You'll connect with young people from around the world.
The school system
The school year runs from mid-February to late November or early December, with breaks at Easter and in July. Classes start at 7:00 a.m. and finish at 1:00 or 4:00 p.m., depending on the school. Some are lecture-based, others require active student participation.
Students must take a set number of subjects. Older students can choose from advanced math, sciences, social studies, civics, languages, and more. Study groups often meet after school, especially during exams. Uniforms are mandatory.
What’s included in your experience
Learning paths that evolve with the world
AFS helps people of all ages and backgrounds develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to connect with diverse people, succeed in a global environment, and contribute to a positive impact on the world.
