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  • Locations: Monteverde, Costa Rica
  • Program Terms: Fall, Spring
  • Homepage: Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: CIEE 
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Language of Instruction: English Click here for a definition of this term Class Status: 2-sophomore, 3-junior, 4-senior
Housing Options: Dormitory Click here for a definition of this term Areas of Study: Environmental Studies, Sustainability
Program Type: Study Abroad Minimum GPA: 2.5
Program Description:

Semester in Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

Browse Program

Program Overview

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to spend your semester in Costa Rica! Set in in the stunning Monteverde region, known for its lush cloud forests and rich biodiversity, this program combines rigorous academics with unparalleled experiential learning. While abroad, you can choose from a diverse array of courses, including sustainability, that are designed to enhance your understanding of global issues and local experiences.  

Monteverde is a top tourist destination in Costa Rica, renowned for its commitment to conservation and sustainability. Nestled within the stunning Cloud Forest, housing is provided in comfortable residence halls on the CIEE Monteverde campus. While on program, you'll have the opportunity to participate in credit-bearing internships, language courses, and a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities that allow you to engage with the local community. With its unique blend of academic rigor and cultural immersion, the Semester in Monteverde program is an ideal choice if you're seeking a transformative and hands-on study abroad experience! 

Unique Experiences

Visit the cloud forest

where moss and orchids dripping with mist decorate the boughs of gnarly trees

Live in a rural mountain community

surrounded by friendly Costa Ricans who will teach you how to live a more sustainable lifestyle, while you gain new professional skills

Be enchanted and inspired

when you hike beneath the canopy of the cloud forest and observe colorful plants and animals

Read more about Monteverde

Excursions & Activities

Past activities for students include:

  • Exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest where you can hike trails, immerse yourself in its incredible biodiversity, and learn about conservation efforts firsthand 
  • Enjoy breathtaking views from the treetops while ziplining, and gain insights into the role of ecotourism in Costa Rica’s economy 
  • Participate in day trips and multi-day field trips to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders, including waterfalls and hot springs, while connecting with local traditions and communities 
  • Access indoor and outdoor areas with forest trails and gardens for recreation, self-exploration and co-curricular activities 
  • Discover local foods and customs in the town of Monteverde

What's Included

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
  • Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
  • Orientation – an introduction to Costa Rican culture, your academic program, and the city, plus practical information about living in your host city
  • Full-time program leadership and support in your host city
  • Field trips and cultural activities
  • Insurance and other travel benefits, with CIEE iNext
  • 24/7 emergency on-site support

1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!

GAIN Travel Grants - up to $2,000 toward travel costs guaranteed to all Pell-elgible students.

Gilman Go Global Grants - $2,500/semester and $1,000/summer, guaranteed to all Gilman applications.

Merit-Based Scholarships - $2,500/semester and $750/summer, awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.

Minority Serving Institutions (MIS) Grant - $2,000/semester and $500/summer, guaranteed to all students attending MSIs.

Learn more

Why CIEE

  • 200+ study abroad programs in 40+ countries
  • $8 million in scholarships offered each year
  • 1 in 3 students receives a scholarship
  • Study tours and cultural activities included
  • Internships and volunteering opportunities
  • Rigorous academics
  • Cultural immersion
  • iNext travel protection included

Questions?

Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.

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