Heredia, Costa Rica

SUA offers a study abroad program at Universidad Nacional in Heredia through IFSA. This program is best suited for students with an interest in Latin American studies, biology, economics, environmental studies, and ecology.

Students white water rafting

Location

North of San Jose, Heredia is in central Costa Rica. Its distance from the coast makes it less of a tourist destination than other Costa Rican cities. 

Student on bridge over green valley

Climate

Heredia is warm year-round with rain spread throughout the year, allowing for a variety of outdoor activities. 

Learning traditional Costa Rican dance

Dance

Heredia, like much of Costa Rica, is well-known for its famous and recognizable traditional dances. The dances often include vibrant garments.

Costa Rica has taught me to welcome each day with gratitude and positivity, to ceaselessly be in awe of the beauty of nature.

Program Characteristics

The fall semester takes place from late August to late December. The spring semester takes place from late February to mid-July.

  • 2.75 GPA
  • Four semesters of college-level Spanish

 

You are required to take Advanced Spanish or Social History of Costa Rica. The average class size is 10 to 40 students and 20 percent of the student body is made up of IFSA exchange students. You can expect four to five hours of homework a day.

You may participate in a mandatory service-learning opportunity as well as two overnight excursions. A student visa can be obtained on-site.

You will live with a Costa Rican host family. Three meals a day are provided.

Explore More

Spanish Language Study Abroad
Spanish Language Courses
Study Abroad Programs