Study and Living in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is considered one of the most educated and affordable countries in Latin America. Read on to know about the cost of living and study, health care, transportation, and accommodation for students in Costa Rica: 

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee in Costa Rica varies depending on the level of study, programme and the higher education institution. Contact the respective higher education institution to know the exact fees for the undergraduate and graduate programmes. 

Living Expenses

The living expenses vary depending on the location, facilities and lifestyle. 

Rent per month-
  • Rent in central area of San Jose can be up to 500 US dollars depending on the location and accommodation type.
  • Rent of a flat near University of Costa Rica is around 400 US dollars per month 
Pupils must keep aside about 500 US dollars per month for additional expenses, which covers food, bills, transport, and other basic necessities. 

Student Accommodation

Students have many housing options available in Costa Rica. If you want to immerse yourself in the Costa Rican culture, stay with the host family; and if you want to be independent, then rent a flat. Following are the accommodation options in Costa Rica are:

University campus and student residence: This accommodation option has all the necessary facilities and the main advantage of this option is its location- it is located near to the university. 

Share a flat: Students can share a flat in Costa Rica; this will reduce the cost and also gives an opportunity to meet new people. This option is less expensive. The rent varies depending on the location and number of people sharing the flat. 

Live with the host family/Home stay: To learn the culture and language of Costa Rica, there is no better option than to live with the host family. This accommodation alternative helps you to learn the language and also you get to know the culture and tradition of Costa Rica first-hand. 

Health Insurance

All the international students must possess a health insurance that has an international coverage. In Costa Rica, there are 2 healthcare systems- public and private. The Costa Rican Social Security System (CCSS, or Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social), or La Caja is a government-run system of healthcare.

To know in detail about the health insurance in Costa Rica, contact the respective Costa Rican higher education institution.

Transportation

Public transport is easily available and cheap in Costa Rica. 

Getting Around by Van Shuttles

In Costa Rica, there are collective shuttle services running. The shuttle service is comfortable and cheap. Also, students may get discount. 

Travelling In and Around by Bus

In Costa Rica, public buses are easily available. This is the cheapest mode of transport in Costa Rica. Buses in Costa Rica run regularly, and are comfortable and easy to get. 

Rent a Car

In Costa Rica, there are several car rental agencies.  These agencies are recognized by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT)

Getting Around By Taxi

One can easily get around the country by taxi. Taxis in Costa Rica are red with yellow triangle on the side. The taxis have meter and accordingly the fare is charged.

Note: Prices mentioned  are indicative in nature. Exact prices will vary depending on type/level study programme and lifestyle etc,
Connect me with the Top Colleges
First Name:
Last Name:
E-Mail ID :
You live in:
Mobile Number:
You want to study in:
Highest Level of Education:
Study Preference:
You want to Study:
Need an education loan?
loading Processing...
  • No Articles to display

Know More »

  • No Press Releases to display

Know More »

Costarica Select a Country

Our Network :