By Kara Armstrong
KU students have the opportunity to study in Costa Rica during the summer of 2024. Students may take up to six credits during their study abroad program.
This study abroad program is not hosted by KU, rather, it is provided by an outside program, ICADS (Institute for Central American Development Studies). ICADS is located in San José, Costa Rica.
Photo Credit: KU Modern Languages Department
The application deadline for the Costa Rica study abroad is Mar. 3, 2024. There is a $50 application fee and a $300 deposit due in the weeks before the program starts.
Students may choose from two different timelines to complete their study abroad: June 3, 2024 – June 28, 2024 or July 1, 2024 – July 26, 2024. ICADS provides study abroad experiences year-round, however, these two timelines are the only intervals that do not interfere with KU’s academic year.
Like the Spain study abroad, students will live in a homestay environment, meaning they will stay in the home of a local family.
The flat rate for a summer study abroad session is $1,990. Included in the fee is airport pick-up, classes, study materials and experiences, room, partial board, and laundry service. Students are guaranteed a private room, three meals per day, and laundry service from their host family.
Airfare is not included in the flat rate, and students must arrange for their own transportation to their departing flight.
Students are also required to purchase GeoBlue study abroad insurance for the entire duration of their stay. GeoBlue study abroad insurance costs $13.40 per week with a two-week minimum purchase.
Students may select between the same five courses offered in the Spain study abroad program: Spanish 103, 104, 341, 360 and 370.
SPA 103 and 104 are intermediate language-learning classes.
Upper-level courses may differ from student-to-student, but will transfer back to KU as SPA 341, 360 or 370. Students can expect to learn about aspects of Central American life such as politics, social conditions, environmental issues, and human rights.
Students must notify ICADS that they intend to transfer credit to KU at the beginning of their study abroad program. Requests for transcripts submitted after the study abroad program has already ended will not be accommodated.
Students can apply here or contact Dr. Moctezuma at [email protected] for more information.