Study abroad in Costa Rica
Study abroad at
Latin American University of Science and Technology
Your Future Starts Here - Study at ULACIT in Costa Rica
The Latin American University of Science and Technology has been ranked the #1 private university in Costa Rica for 13 consecutive years and is also a global campus of the University of Arizona. ULACIT’s teaching approach is entirely project-based – no traditional exams. Learning happens through research, case studies, problem-solving, and service-learning, following the “Teaching for Understanding” framework developed by Harvard University’s Project Zero. Add to that the warmth of Costa Rican culture, the “Pura Vida” lifestyle, and endless natural landscapes to explore, and you have a study abroad experience unlike any other.
About ULACIT
The Latin American University of Science and Technology (ULACIT) is a forward-thinking, entrepreneurial university committed to preparing students for leadership roles in science, technology, and other vital fields. Through its globally oriented approach, ULACIT equips students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to thrive in the 21st century.
The university places strong emphasis on positive social coexistence, inclusive values, and cross-cultural understanding. Students are encouraged to build international networks while respecting and celebrating cultural, political, religious, ethnic, gender, and ideological diversity.
Campus and facilities
International students at ULACIT have full access to the university’s state-of-the-art campus, including:
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Fully equipped computer labs and multimedia classrooms
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A modern library, printing and copy center, and quiet study areas
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Comfortable student lounges, a cafeteria, and a student health center
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High-speed Wi-Fi throughout campus
Location
ULACIT’s main campus is located in central San José, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica. It sits just 800 meters north of Central Park and 150 meters south of the La República newspaper offices, in the Tournón neighborhood. The university is situated in San José’s banking district, only 20 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Additionally, the Center for Innovation and Technology Transfer is located in Escazú, at Plaza Tempo, a modern commercial and innovation hub just outside the city center.
See the university video here:
Credits & Grading
Students may enrol in up to five courses during Spring and Fall semesters. Standard courses comprise 45 contact hours, equivalent to 3 U.S. credits / 6 ECTS. Selected 60-hour courses carry 4 U.S. credits / 8 ECTS. The maximum credit load is 30 ECTS per semester. Read more about credit conversion here.
Application Instructions
Apply to Costa Rica study abroad program at ULACIT
DOCUMENTS
Get the required documents (see list below)
APPLICATION
Fill out and submit the online application form together with the required documents
CONFIRMATION
You’ll get a confirmation of your study placement within one week, at best as quickly as one day.
- When you apply for two semesters: 100 EUR discount on the second semester
- Get access to comprehensive information materials such as a Beyond Abroad Guide and an interactive orientation webinar after you apply
INSTRUCTIONS
- Scan all the required documents (1–2) to your computer.
- Finally, fill out the online application form below and submit it with all the documents.
Uploading and submitting the attachments
- Please upload the attachments in PDF format.
- If possible, please submit all the attachments together with the application. If you’re missing some attachment(s) when you apply, you can later send the missing document(s). However, please note that we won’t process applications without any attachments whatsoever.
- All attachments must be sent to us by the application deadline at the very latest, preferably as soon as possible.
- You can submit all the documents electronically. Please don’t send anything via regular mail.
- There is a late application fee for applications or attachments submitted after the application deadline.
Confirmation
You’ll get a confirmation of your study placement in 1-7 days, starting when your application is complete with all the required documents.
Fees
The application fee invoice will be sent to you soon after the initial acceptance letter. This fee will be due within 10 days of receiving your confirmation. The application fee is non-refundable even if you decide to cancel (see below).
Cancellation
If you’re unable to participate in the study abroad semester, you have the right to cancel your participation up to 1 month before the semester starts with no extra cost (the application fee will not be refunded, however). Let us know about your cancellation by writing us an email at info[ at]asiaexchange.org. Cancellations notified via phone, SMS, or by any other means will not be considered. For more detailed information on our cancellation policy, please see the terms and conditions for cancellation. We also reserve the right to cancel your participation if any of your fees becomes overdue. For more information, please see our terms and conditions.
Travel insurance
You are required to have a valid accident and health insurance from your home country for the whole duration of the program. The university may request a copy of the insurance certificate at the beginning of the semester. See our recommended travel insurance providers.
Who can apply
- You are a university student or have recently finished high school
- You can follow teaching and converse in English (no official language test required)
- If you wish to take Spanish-taught courses, a minimum B1 Spanish language certificate is required
See the additional requirements.
Accommodation
When studying abroad in San José, Costa Rica, you can either stay in one of the accommodation options provided by ULACIT or find your own housing independently. Around 1–2 months before the semester begins, ULACIT will contact all incoming students to confirm their accommodation preferences and share more detailed options.
Host family
Living with a local host family is a great way to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture and practice your Spanish daily. Costa Ricans, known for their friendliness and warmth, will welcome you as part of the family.
ULACIT works with carefully selected host families, many of whom have partnered with the university for years. All families live in the San José metro area, with convenient access to campus.
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Cost: $772 USD/month (includes meals)
Individual accommodation
Students also have the option to find accommodation independently. San José offers a range of hostels, B&Bs, short-term rentals, and furnished apartments. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO are commonly used and offer flexible options for short or long stays.
If you choose to rent from a private owner, it’s strongly recommended to visit the property in person before signing a lease. Online listings may not always reflect reality, and location markers can be inaccurate, especially outside the metro area.
Finding housing independently may involve a bit of negotiation, this is part of the local culture and renting norms. Patience, a sense of humor, and cultural openness will go a long way in securing a place you’re happy with.
Program Highlights
Study in the best private university of Costa Rica with highly competent professionals and innovative teaching methods
Expand your knowledge with a range of interesting courses from many different study fields
Live in one of the happiest countries of the world and experience the worry-free lifestyle of Costa Ricans called “Pura Vida”
Explore the World - Semester Abroad at ULACIT, Costa Rica
A semester at ULACIT puts you at the heart of one of Latin America’s most innovative universities, in the vibrant capital San José. Study Economics, Business, International Relations, Political Science, or Latin American culture in English – and if you want, add Spanish classes on top. No traditional exams, just project-based learning that actually prepares you for the real world. Between trimesters, Costa Rica’s volcanoes, rainforests, beaches, and wildlife are right at your doorstep. A semester that delivers academically and takes your breath away.
SEMESTERS
Spring (January – April)
Summer (May – August)
Autumn (September - December)
MAX. CREDITS
24 ECTS /
12 US credits per trimester
Fees
+
Levels of study
Bachelor's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year
Program Content
Project-based learning
Study Fields
Business & Marketing, Industrial/Biomedical Engineering, Information Technology, Psychology, Latin American & Development Studies, Spanish Immersion Program
Everything You Need to Know - Semester Abroad at ULACIT
Thinking about a semester at ULACIT? From course options and trimester dates to accommodation, visa, and fees, everything you need to plan your time in Costa Rica is right here. Scroll through the details below and take the next step.
Semester Dates
| SPRING 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 11.01.2027 – 23.04.2027 |
| Orientation | 08.01.2027 |
| Application deadline | 27.11.2026 |
| SUMMER 1 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 24.05.2027 – 02.07.2027 |
| Orientation | 21.05.2027 |
| Application deadline | 30.04.2027 |
| SUMMER 2 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 05.07.2027 – 13.08.2027 |
| Orientation | 02.07.2027 |
| Application deadline | 11.06.2027 |
| AUTUMN 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 06.09. – 17.12.2027 |
| Orientation | 03.09.2027 |
| Application deadline | 28.05.2027 |
Please note that the course selections are made on a first-come-first-serve basis!
*) Small changes possible
Courses & Studies
The Semester Abroad runs twice a year across two academic periods – Spring and Fall – giving students flexibility to choose the term that best fits their academic calendar. During each period, students may enrol in up to five (5) English-taught courses, each covering 45 contact hours and worth 3 U.S. credits / 6 ECTS. Students may freely combine offerings across ULACIT’s seven academic tracks to design an experience tailored to their interests and goals. Courses are taught over 15-week academic periods, with 3 contact hours per week and 6 hours dedicated to guided independent coursework.
Available study fields:
Business & Marketing, Industrial/Biomedical Engineering, Information Technology, Psychology, Latin American & Development Studies, Spanish Immersion Program
All courses are taught 100% in English. Students wishing to take courses in Spanish should notify us at application.
Spanish Language Course
Students interested in improving their Spanish skills can attend the additional Spanish Immersion Program at ULACIT. Each Spanish Immersion course covers 45 contact hours (3 hourly lessons per week), corresponding to 3 US credits or 6 ECTS. Individual or two-person tutorships are also available for 30 contact hours (2 US credits or 4 ECTS). Students are placed according to their proficiency level.
| Option | Cost | Credits | ECTS | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Immersion Course | $720 | 3 US credits | 6 ECTS | 45h |
| Individual Tutorship | $1,200 | 2 US credits | 4 ECTS | 30h |
| Two-Person Tutorship | $1,050 per student | 2 US credits | 4 ECTS | 30h |
*Two-Person Tutorship pricing applies to student pairs who enrol together.
eCampus
In addition to the courses mentioned above, you have the chance to attend additional distance learning courses in the fields of Economics, Marketing, Sociology, and Politics. All the courses are taught from a distance and can be joined independently from place and time. This gives you the ultimate flexibility to combine your study abroad experience with various academic courses.
All information about the eCampus can be found here.
You have the chance to opt for distance learning courses during your application process. Please note that each distance learning course is worth 5 ECTS and comes at an additional charge of 199€ / 297USD.
After completing your eCampus courses, you will receive an academic transcript issued by Undiknas University. Additionally, you will receive a participation certificate for each completed distance learning course.
Fees
Part of our DNA is to keep excellent relationships with all our partners. Due to this special relationship with the Latin American University of Science and Technology, you save approximately
Tuition fee:
Application fee:
See what’s included in the fees.
Many of our students apply for national student funding such as PROMOS, BAföG, or CSN.
Are you from North/South America & Oceania? Find out more about the fees.
Benefits when applying via Asia Exchange
- Confirmation even in one day
- Orientation days
- No English proficiency test required
- Save more than a
compared to regular tuition fees additional discount when you apply for two semesters.
Required Documents
- A scanned copy of the identification page of your passport. Please note that the passport must be valid 6 months after the semester ends.
- An official transcript of records, or if you are not currently enrolled at an institution of higher education, a copy of your high school diploma. This should preferably be submitted in English, but we also accept these documents in German, French, and Spanish.
Take a Break, Not a Step Back - Gap Year at ULACIT, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the world’s happiest and most sustainable countries – and one of the most exciting places to spend a gap year that genuinely counts. At ULACIT, you’ll study at the #1 private university in the country, improve your Spanish, discover an extraordinary natural landscape, and build a multicultural network that will stay with you long after you leave. A gap year in Costa Rica. Pura Vida.
SEMESTERS
Spring (January – April)
Summer (May – August)
Autumn (September - December)
MAX. CREDITS
24 ECTS /
12 US credits per trimester
Fees
+
Levels of study
Bachelor's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year
Program Content
Project-based learning
Study Fields
Business & Marketing, Industrial/Biomedical Engineering, Information Technology, Psychology, Latin American & Development Studies, Spanish Immersion Program
Everything You Need to Know - Gap Year at ULACIT
Taking a gap year at ULACIT is more straightforward than you might think. Three semesters are available: Spring (January–April), Summer (May–August), and Autumn (September–December). Find all the details below and start planning your gap year in Costa Rica.
Semester Dates
| SPRING 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 11.01.2027 – 23.04.2027 |
| Orientation | 08.01.2027 |
| Application deadline | 27.11.2026 |
| SUMMER 1 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 24.05.2027 – 02.07.2027 |
| Orientation | 21.05.2027 |
| Application deadline | 30.04.2027 |
| SUMMER 2 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 05.07.2027 – 13.08.2027 |
| Orientation | 02.07.2027 |
| Application deadline | 11.06.2027 |
| AUTUMN 2027 | DD.MM.YYYY |
| Semester dates | 06.09. – 17.12.2027 |
| Orientation | 03.09.2027 |
| Application deadline | 28.05.2027 |
Please note that the course selections are made on a first-come-first-serve basis!
*) Small changes possible
Courses & Studies
Costa Rica study abroad program Courses & Studies
Students can choose up to 4 courses per semester. If you would like to take more than 4 courses, you will be charged 425$ USD per additional course. These fees will be payable directly to ULACIT upon semester start.
Students can choose courses from all the following study programs:
- International Relations and Latin American Studies.
- Business Management and Economics.
- Liberal Arts and Humanities.
Please see below for detailed syllabi of Bachelor-level courses offered at ULACIT:
- Cost Accounting
- Costa Rican Political System
- Diplomatic and Consular Law
- Elements of Microeconomics
- Environmental Sustainability and Development in Latin America
- Financial Accounting
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Human Resources Management
- International Public Law
- International Relations Theory
- International Trade
- Latin American Cultural Identity
- Management of non-profit organizations
- Managerial Decision Modeling
- Math for Business and Economics
- Peace and War in International Relations
- Poverty, Economics, and Development in Latin America
- Principles of Marketing
- Quality Management
- Theory of the State
- Western Civilization
All courses from these programs are taught 100% in the English language. If you wish to attend courses taught in Spanish, please contact info@asiaexchange.org.
See the course list and course summaries
See the course offering and summary – Autumn semester
See the course offering and summary – Spring semester
See the course offering and summary – Summer semester
SPANISH LANGUAGE COURSES
If you are interested in improving your Spanish skills, there is a possibility to attend the additional Spanish Immersion Program at ULACIT. The content of each individual language course will also get you acquainted with three perspectives of Costa Rica’s national identity: Community and Culture, Biodiversity, History, Democracy and Politics.
- Introductory Spanish
- Low Beginner Spanish
- High Beginner Spanish
- Intermediate Spanish
Each language course covers 45 contact hours corresponding to 3 US credits or 8 ECTS, through 3 hourly lessons per week. Each course will also cover aspects relevant to the student’s intercultural experience in Costa Rica, learning about the country’s community and culture, sustainability model and biodiversity, it ́s history and democratic and political life. Also available 30 contact hour individualized or pair tutorships.
According to their proficiency level, students will be recommended enrollment in any of our entry level courses; individual one on one tutorials and individual advanced Spanish lessons also available.
Price Spanish Immersion Course: $650 (3 US credits or 6 ECTS, 45 hours)
Price Individual or Two-Person Spanish Immersion Tutorship (2 US credits or 4 ECTS, 30 hours):
- Individual Tutorship: $990
- Two Person Tutorship: $800 (*Applicable for student pairs who enroll tutorships together)
eCampus
In addition to the courses mentioned above, you have the chance to attend additional distance learning courses in the fields of Economics, Marketing, Sociology, and Politics. All the courses are taught from a distance and can be joined independently from place and time. This gives you the ultimate flexibility to combine your study abroad experience with various academic courses.
All information about the eCampus can be found here.
You have the chance to opt for distance learning courses during your application process. Please note that each distance learning course is worth 5 ECTS and comes at an additional charge of 199€ / 297USD.
After completing your eCampus courses, you will receive an academic transcript issued by Undiknas University. Additionally, you will receive a participation certificate for each completed distance learning course.
Fees
Part of our DNA is to keep excellent relationships with all our partners. Due to this special relationship with the Latin American University of Science and Technology, you save approximately
Tuition fee:
Application fee:
See what’s included in the fees.
Many of our students apply for national student funding such as PROMOS, BAföG, or CSN.
Are you from North/South America & Oceania? Find out more about the fees.
Benefits when applying via Asia Exchange
- Confirmation even in one day
- Orientation days
- No English proficiency test required
- Save more than a
compared to regular tuition fees additional discount when you apply for two semesters.
Required Documents
- A scanned copy of the identification page of your passport. Please note that the passport must be valid 6 months after the semester ends.
- An official transcript of records, or if you are not currently enrolled at an institution of higher education, a copy of your high school diploma. This should preferably be submitted in English, but we also accept these documents in German, French, and Spanish.
SEMESTERS
Spring (January – April)
Summer (May – August)
Autumn (September - December)
MAX. CREDITS
24 ECTS /
12 US credits per trimester
Fees
+
Levels of study
Bachelor's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year
Program Content
Project-based learning
Study Fields
Business & Marketing, Industrial/Biomedical Engineering, Information Technology, Psychology, Latin American & Development Studies, Spanish Immersion Program
Semester Dates
Courses & Studies
Fees
Required Documents
Six Weeks, a Lifetime of Memories - Summer Abroad at ULACIT in Costa Rica
ULACIT’s Summer Abroad program packs an extraordinary amount into six intensive weeks – academic courses, experiential and project-based learning, curated excursions to beaches, volcanoes, and rainforests, and community and industry engagement. Two sessions are available: Summer 1 (May–July) and Summer 2 (July–August). A summer program that goes well beyond the classroom.
SEMESTERS
Summer 1 (May–July) / Summer 2 (July–August)
MAX. CREDITS
12 ECTS / 6 US credits per session
Fees
From $2,010 / session +
Levels of study
Bachelor's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year
Program Content
Project-based learning
Study Fields
Tropical Healthcare Innovation & Biomedical Device Prototyping / Business, Marketing & Innovation for Sustainable & Emerging Markets
Everything You Need to Know - Summer Abroad at ULACIT
The Summer Abroad program at ULACIT is offered in two back-to-back sessions, giving you the flexibility to choose one or both. Find all the details below.
Semester Dates
You may apply for semesters in the upcoming years already.
*) Small changes possible / Dates are still tentative.
Courses & Studies
Summer Abroad (6 weeks) is offered in two intensive sessions – Summer 1 and Summer 2. During each session, students may enrol in up to 6 credits (12 ECTS) by taking two (2) academic courses, each worth 3 credits (45 contact hours each, 90 contact hours total). Students may also complement their courses with an additional credit-bearing Spanish Immersion course.
Summer Abroad integrates intensive coursework, experiential and project-based learning, curated excursions to beaches, volcanoes, and rainforests, and community and industry engagement.
See Syllabi for Summer Program
- BME 390 Summer Program Tropical Healthcare Innovation & Biomedical Device Prototyping
- BUS Summer Program Business Innovation for Sustainable & Emerging Markets
Spanish Language Course
Students interested in improving their Spanish skills can attend the additional Spanish Immersion Program at ULACIT. Each Spanish Immersion course covers 45 contact hours (3 hourly lessons per week), corresponding to 3 US credits or 6 ECTS. Individual or two-person tutorships are also available for 30 contact hours (2 US credits or 4 ECTS). Students are placed according to their proficiency level.
| Option | Cost | Credits | ECTS | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Immersion Course | $720 | 3 US credits | 6 ECTS | 45h |
| Individual Tutorship | $1,200 | 2 US credits | 4 ECTS | 30h |
| Two-Person Tutorship | $1,050 per student | 2 US credits | 4 ECTS | 30h |
*Two-Person Tutorship pricing applies to student pairs who enrol together.
Fees
Program fee : $2 010 / session
Application fee :
The ULACIT Summer Abroad program fee is $2,010 tuition fee per session (6 weeks). See what’s included in the fees.
Many of our students apply for national student funding such as PROMOS, BAföG, or CSN.
Are you from North/South America & Oceania? Find out more about the fees.
Required Documents
- An official transcript of records of all your semesters or, if you are not currently enrolled at an institution of higher education, a copy of your high school diploma (or similar document). If you are currently a high school student, you must submit proof of it.
- A copy of the identification page of your passport.
SEMESTERS
Summer 1 (May–July) / Summer 2 (July–August)
MAX. CREDITS
12 ECTS / 6 US credits per session
Fees
From $2,010 / session +
Levels of study
Bachelor's Level: Semester Abroad, Gap Year
Program Content
Project-based learning
Study Fields
Tropical Healthcare Innovation & Biomedical Device Prototyping / Business, Marketing & Innovation for Sustainable & Emerging Markets
Semester Dates
Courses & Studies
Fees
Required Documents
MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
STUDIES & SCHEDULES
Q: How do I select my courses?
A: We will send you a pre-course enrolment form along with a list of courses being offered approximately one month before your semester starts.
Q: Are the courses taught in English?
A: Yes. ULACIT offers 68 courses taught regularly 100% in English at the San José campus, covering Liberal Arts, Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Marketing, International Trade, Finance, Political Science, International Relations, and Latin American Studies.
Q: Can I enrol in courses taught in Spanish?
A: Yes. Please notify us if you would like to enrol in Spanish-taught courses.
Q: Do I need a language certificate?
A: No English language certificate is required. However, if you wish to enrol in courses taught in Spanish, you must submit a minimum B1 Certificate of Spanish Language Proficiency.
Q: What is the required course attendance?
A: The official course attendance requirement is 85%. Students who accumulate 3 absences will fail the course.
Q: When do exams take place?
A: Exams are included in the semester dates and take place in the middle and at the end of the semester. We will send you a class schedule one month before your semester starts.
VISA & TRAVEL
Q: What type of visa do I need to study in Costa Rica?
A: We recommend students enter Costa Rica with a Tourist Visa.
- No prior process is required. The tourist visa is automatically issued by migration authorities for any international traveller entering the country by land or air.
- Visitors must have a valid passport and proof of intent to exit the country before their visa expires. A return ticket or onward ticket is required – it can be open-ended.
- To maintain legal migratory status after 90 days, students can either exit any land border (a quick weekend trip to Panama or Nicaragua) to renew their tourist visa, or request a student visa through ULACIT’s migration lawyer at a cost of $200. This automatically suspends the 90-day expiration while authorities process the student visa request, which typically takes over 6 months. This is standard practice for short-term exchange students.
ACCOMMODATION
A: ULACIT’s central campus does not offer traditional on-campus dorms. Exchange students are expected to live with a local host family through ULACIT’s Homestay Program. ULACIT works with host families in San José who have welcomed international students for years. Each home has been carefully selected to ensure comfort and safety. To obtain a homestay application form, contact studyabroad@ulacit.ac.cr. Read more about accommodation options here.
TRANSPORT
Q: How can I get to the campus?
A: Students may rent a car in Costa Rica with an international driving licence. Regular taxis are available in San José, but we recommend downloading the Uber app – it is the safest, most affordable, and most convenient way to travel around the city.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Q: Do I need insurance?
A: Yes, all international students coming to ULACIT are required to purchase an international student health insurance plan with coverage in Costa Rica (no student will be accepted without it). Students must present a copy of their international health insurance ID card or written verification of coverage to be admitted and send a copy of this form for our records.
International Health Insurance Coverage must meet three essential requirements: cover medical expenses generated by the COVID-19 disease, hospital admission fees for the required duration, and minimum coverage of 14 days for accommodation expenses in case of delivery of a medical isolation order. If you choose this modality, you must have a certificate in English or Spanish from the international insurer that indicates the following:
- Validity of the insurance when visiting Costa Rica.
- Coverage of medical costs in the event of a Covid-19 pandemic in Costa Rica of at least $ 50,000.
- $2,000minimum coverage for lodging costs due to pandemic illness.
What former students say
