Studying in Costa Rica: 2026 guide

Costa Rica has 32 universities, including the University for Peace, Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, and Universidad Autónoma de Centro América. It is a lower-cost study destination than the US, with a 2023 price level at 54% of the US level.

Cost of living → Working & jobs →

Students studying in Costa Rica can choose from a range of universities across the country. Among them are University for Peace, Universidad Fundepos Alma Mater, Universidad Isaac Newton, Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica, Universidad San Juan de la Cruz, and Universidad Autónoma de Centro América.

The country’s 2023 price level was 54% of the US level, which can help with planning for day-to-day student costs. Costa Rica’s GDP per capita at purchasing power parity was 24,084 US dollars.

For a newly arrived international student, the first term is about settling into a university and learning the local rhythms of study and daily life. With many universities available, students can compare institutions and decide where they fit best before arrival.

Language in daily life matters when choosing where to study, since students will be living and studying in Costa Rica itself. The academic year and housing arrangements depend on the university, so students should expect to sort those practical details directly with their chosen institution.