In Costa Rica we work with COSI — Costa Rica Spanish Institute. Classes are offered in both San Jose (the city) and on the Manuel Antonio National Park (beach & rain forest).

Costa Rica is a peaceful country in Central America. The country has no army, and its literacy rate is 95 percent, among the highest in the world. Much of the land is devoted to national parks or reserves. The country has an incredible variety of climates, vegetation, wildlife and topography. The climate in the capital San Jose is extremely pleasing (72 - 90 F/22-32 C) and the city hosts many museums, theaters, restaurants, discotheques and bars.

The city location is in a safe, quiet suburb, just a 10 minute bus ride from downtown. The beach location is at one of the best beaches on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. The park is a combination of rain forest and white sand beaches. You can see howler, squirrel, and white-faced monkeys, two-toed sloths, coatimundis, iguanas and over 350 species of birds and other animals.

Small group classes, private tutoring, or a combination of group and private classes are available in San Jose as well as in Manuel Antonio. The staff is highly trained to provide classes that are relaxing, fun filled and effective. All teachers have excellent credentials in the field of language teaching and linguistics. COSI has developed is own grammar books, workbooks and additional materials, that are included in the price of tuition. Students range from complete beginners to those with “near native” competence. It is also possible to do volunteer work in national parks, public schools, Habitat for Humanity and with other organizations.

Classes start every Monday all year-round, though students may start later in the week if they are unable to start on a Monday. It is highly recommended that you live with a family to further enhance your language study. The host families are middle class and most live within walking distance from the school. The families are carefully chosen and they are very interested in sharing their culture with others. Some families can accommodate students who are traveling with children. The home stays can start any day.

College credit may be granted for study at COSI

Service Learning opportunities include volunteering at public schools, environmental protection projects, orphanages, nursing homes and neighborhood recycling projects.  

Registration Fee - (per person - non-refundable) $100

A. Group 4 hrs/day
Per Week (25 hours) - with home stay

$495

Per Week (25 hours) - without home stay

$355

B. Private Tutoring 4 hrs/day or
C. Group 4 hrs plus 2 hrs private tutor/day
Per Week - with home stay

$770

Per Week - without home stay

$625

Additional private tutoring hour: $23
Additional day in home stay: $20

 

Discounts offered for additional weeks.
Prices include: tuition, cultural program, airport pick up (in San Jose), book and materials; in the home stay - private room, breakfast, dinner, and laundry service.

Apartments in San Jose - fully furnished, located 1 block from the school, internet access, cable TV, telephone, 3 bedrooms (1 double bed each), one bathroom

Whole apartment - $65 night; $370 week; $1260 month Shared apartment - $32 night; $170 week; $525 month (30% more if it is double)

Hotel Accomodations at the Beach

There are various options at a range of prices.  Suggestions and prices upon request.  We will help you find a place to suit your needs.

 

In June, July and August, an immersion program specifically designed for high school students is offered. The program includes week activities such as movies, roller-skating, cooking, dancing, and art classes. Weekend trips include going to the beach, active volcanoes, or canals in the jungle. Teenagers can attend independently or in groups. All travel is supervised.  Classes are held in Heredia at a 15 acre private high school.

Prices: $790 -- 1st Week Discounts for additional weeks

Programs for teenagers in Costa Rica Price includes:
Tuition, home stay (breakfast and dinner), airport pick up and drop off, exit visa, activities, tours, hotel accommodations during overnight weekend tours.

Students can participate for one week or more. In order to enroll students should pay a non- refundable $200 deposit.

Contact Sandra Pollack at journeyweavers@aol.com for registration and payment arrangements. For additional information and pictures, you can visit COSI web site at www.cosi.co.cr