Spend five unforgettable weeks experiencing the beauty and culture of Costa Rica. This program combines intensive Spanish language study, homestays with welcoming host families and excursions to some of the country’s most famous sites, such as Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens. 

Costa Rica is known worldwide for its peace, democracy and natural beauty. Its capital city, San José, offers a comfortable climate (mid-70s year-round) and is home to theaters, museums, art galleries and lively markets. 

This program is offered through the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs (ICISP).

Program information 

• Dates: June 2026 (exact dates announced soon)
• Estimated cost: $3,800
  • Includes ICISP tuition/fees, host family lodging with breakfast and dinner, airport transfers within Costa Rica, overnight excursions and cultural activities.
  • Airfare not included; a suggested flight itinerary will be provided.
  • Orientation: A virtual orientation session will be held in May.
  • Passport reminder: A valid passport is required. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the return date. Apply early, as processing may take up to four months.
  • Official Costa Rica ICISP program page

Sample program schedule 

Below is an example of the kinds of activities you may experience during the program.

Week 1 – Settling in 

• Day 1: Depart O’Hare, arrive in San José and meet host families
• Day 2: Orientation and placement testing at CRLA
• Day 3: Excursion – Manuel Antonio National Park (Day 1)
• Day 4: Excursion – Manuel Antonio National Park (Day 2) 

Week 2 – Language study begins 

• Day 1: Manuel Antonio National Park (Day 3)
• Day 2–5: Spanish classes at CRLA (Mon-Thu, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.), National Museum visit (Day 3), group meeting (Day 5)
• Day 6: Excursion – Poás Volcano and Café Britt
• Day 7: Excursion – Tortuguero National Park (Day 1) 

Week 3 – Cultural exploration

• Day 1: Tortuguero National Park (Day 2)
• Day 2–5: Spanish classes, National Theatre visit (Day 3), group meeting (Day 5)
• Day 6–7: Excursion – Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna 

Week 4 – Language and culture 

• Day 1: Free day
• Day 2–5: Spanish classes, Jade Museum visit (Day 4), group meeting (Day 5)
• Day 6–7: Free days 

Week 5 – Farewell week 

• Day 1: Free day
• Day 2–5: Spanish classes, group meeting (Day 5) followed by farewell dinner and folklore performance
• Day 6: Free day
• Day 7: Return flight to Chicago

Courses and credit 

Participants enroll in two courses*

Spanish Language (3-4 credits) 

• Placement testing takes place on-site; adjustments can be made if progress exceeds the initial placement. 

Civilization and Culture of Costa Rica (SPA 299, 3 credits) 

• Covers the geography, history, politics, society and arts of Costa Rica.
• Includes guided cultural excursions to museums, theaters and historic sites.
• Attendance and written assignments are required. 

*Note: Students from outside LLCC should confirm with their home institution how these credits will transfer.

Housing and meals 

You’ll live with carefully selected Costa Rican host families in shared (double-occupancy) rooms. Homestays include breakfast, dinner and laundry service, and provide daily opportunities to practice Spanish and share in Costa Rican family life. 

Most homes are located near public transportation. Lunch is not included, but inexpensive restaurants and cafés are located near the language school.

Activities 

• Included: All excursions and cultural activities listed in the program schedule.
• Optional: Additional excursions (not included in the program cost) will be available to students who wish to explore further.  

Travel and health information 

• Passports and visas
• U.S. citizens: No visa required.
• Non-U.S. citizens: Check with the Costa Rican consulate for visa requirements.
• All students: Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the program’s end date. 

Health

• No special vaccinations required for entry.
• Recommended: Updated tetanus shot.
• COVID-19 vaccination may be required by some local partners.
• Consult your doctor for personal health needs. 

Insurance

• Proof of medical insurance valid outside the U.S. is required.
• Optional: Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.  

Program requirements 

•  Active participation in all scheduled classes and excursions.  

Faculty support 

• All courses are taught by instructors at the Costa Rican Language Academy (CRLA).
• Two ICISP faculty directors will accompany the group and be available daily for academic, cultural and personal support.  

Questions?

For additional information about the program, contact Matthew Griffin, Spanish professor, at 217-786-4949.