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Costa Rica: Heredia - Spanish Language, Ecological, and Latin American Studies

Name: Costa Rica: Heredia - Spanish Language, Ecological, and Latin American Studies
Brand: USAC
SKU: 19264
Rating: 4.77 (39 reviews)

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USAC

4.77 (39 reviews)

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Costa Rica: Heredia - Spanish Language, Ecological, and Latin American Studies

USAC

4.77 · 39 reviews

Community Choice Award Winner

Location

Costa Rica
- Heredia

Term

Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer

Subject Areas

Anthropology Biology Cultural Studies Ecology Food Science and Nutrition History Latin American Studies Political Science Sociology

Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships

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Program Details

Program Type

Provider

Housing

Host Family

Language

English

Last Updated: Sep 24, 2024

Last Reviewed: Dec 17, 2025

Wish List

26 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Study abroad next summer, semester or academic year with USAC in Heredia, Costa Rica. All USAC courses during the Spanish, Ecological and Latin American Studies program are taken at the National University of Costa Rica. Needless to say, Spanish language and literature, as well as ecology and Latin American studies dominate the course options.

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COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

This program offers strong Spanish immersion with supportive staff and welcoming host families, plus enriching cultural and travel experiences.

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Program Highlights

Explore the cultural, historic, and urban highlights of the capital city, San José; visit the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean, and Bocas del Toro, Panama; and participate in a field study to Cuba.
Join clubs, organizations, and volunteer activities within the university community, all of which will help you practice your Spanish by spending time with Costa Rican students.
Enrich your cross-cultural experience through internships, field studies, and volunteer opportunities in the local community.
Practice your Spanish by spending time with local students.
Discover other parts of Costa Rica and neighboring countries on the optional tours.

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Explore the Markets of Heredia, Costa Rica with USAC

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Diversity & Inclusion 💙

LGBTQIA+ Support

There are LGBTQIA+ friends, colleagues, and allies throughout the world. However, cultural understanding of gender identity and sexuality does vary from country to country. USAC has compiled a lot of resources to help you through that learning process.

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Accessibility Support

USAC is dedicated to working closely with students with disabilities to ensure the best study abroad experience possible. You may request reasonable accommodations after your initial application is complete. We routinely receive requests for scheduling, material, and environmental accommodations for the classroom setting, which may include assistive technology, scribes and readers, printed material, and interpretation.

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Impact 🌎

Sustainability

Environmentally-conscious students choose USAC because many of our programs are held in some of the most sustainable countries in the world. There are options to take coursework in sustainability and the environment, as well as field trips and studies where students can leave a lasting impact on their host country.

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Program Reviews

4.77 Rating

based on 39 reviews

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Rating Spread Study

5 rating 76.92%
4 rating 23.08%
3 rating 0%
2 rating 0%
1 rating 0%

Academics 4.3
Support 4.75
Fun 4.8
Housing 4.75
Safety 4.5

Good for Students, Adventure travelers, Photographers

Showing 1 - 8 of 39 reviews

I studied abroad this past summer through USAC in Heredia, Costa Rica. I can absolutely say that it is the best program possible for anyone seeking adventure in their study abroad experience with great academics, immersion into another culture, and excellent support from staff. I was nervous at first to study abroad, but I learned so much through this program about myself and the world around me. This program was specifically great for students learning Spanish or studying biodiversity! There were many opportunities in these particular areas, in addition to more.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?

I got to see baby monkeys and sloths in the wild!

Pros

Various trips around the country available for students
Great orientation to set students up for success and make sure everyone is comfortable
Everyone was so friendly!

Cons

Housing was far from campus (for some)

Overall, I loved my time in Costa Rica. If I had the chance to do it over again, I would have probably picked a direct exchange program where I was more fully immersed in the culture/language, but there were many qualities of the USAC Heredia program that make it valuable especially for those who haven't traveled much or don't speak Spanish.

Pros:
- The home stay!!! I loved my familia tica. The food was great, the house was always perfectly clean, and I got to go on trips with my host family. It was sad to leave and I'm still in touch with them!
- Opportunities to meet other local university students at UNA
- Gustavo, the Spanish track IV professor, was INCREDIBLE
- the bus system in Costa Rica is awesome and I got to travel almost every weekend

Cons:
- surrounded by other English speakers
- classes are not very rigorous or challenging
- not great for students who already speak Spanish conversationally
- sometimes the program directors are a little disorganized

What would you improve about this program?

I'd love to see USAC allow students to enroll in classes directly at la UNA!

I had a great time during my experience. My classes were hands on and I got to learn a lot from professors who were truly passionate about the job. I got to travel every weekend and see new places which was great. My host family made me feel so comfortable and we created a great bond. I was able to learn a lot of Spanish too. My host family helped with that a lot as well as my professors. I got very close with the people in my program as well and we became good friends. I would chose Costa Rica every time if I got the chance.

What was your funniest moment?

My friend and I were hiking at cerro dantas and she fell into the mud and it was very funny.

Pros

Walkable
Host family
Fun travels

Cons

City can be sketchy at times
Bus takes a long time

Going to Costa Rica was the highlight of my college experience. I widened my world view and realized that you have to experience a way of life before you fully understand it. This program enhanced my Spanish speaking skills, gave me ample opportunities for growth, and taught me about myself and the world around me d me. I felt blessed to have a host family because I wouldn’t have talked to many Costa Rican people otherwise. My experiences with traveling and classes had ups and downs, but was amazing!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?

My host mom made a soup with tripe in it and didn’t tell us what it was before she left to check on her mom. Tripe is cow stomach and has a weird texture. It’s almost impossible to chew and it was definitely an interesting experience.

Pros

Fun trips
Volunteer opportunities
Welcoming host families

Cons

Expensive transportation
Big university
Internet provider difficulties

Studying abroad was the best decision I ever made, and part of the reason my experience was so great was because of the program I chose to travel with - USAC. Before my semester abroad, deadlines for paperwork were easy to follow, and someone always responded to my numerous emails in a very timely manner. I felt prepared with the amount of information given beforehand about what to expect. Most importantly, the two directors who led us in Heredia are PERFECT for their job. Extremely organized, open, fun, and supportive.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?

I had to switch host houses due to a medical emergency at my original host house. It was a pretty sad situation and a little scary, but my directors in Heredia handled everything. Gave me a choice on where I would like to stay, talked me through it, and even helped me pack my things and transport them to my new host house. It was an uneasy situation, but with their support, everything ended up being alright.

Pros

Strengthening Spanish
Meeting Local Students
Travel Opportunities

Cons

Host Family Issues
Homework and Assignment Schedule

Volunteering in an English classroom in Heredia, Costa Rica

Studying abroad in Costa Rica was an unforgettable experience that broadened my horizons in every way. From immersing myself in the stunning natural beauty—lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife—to diving deep into the rich culture and vibrant traditions, it was life-changing. The local people’s warmth and hospitality made me feel at home, while learning Spanish in an authentic environment accelerated my language skills. It was a perfect blend of academics, adventure, and personal growth

What was your funniest moment?

A local mistaking me for Justin Bieber

Pros

Host family
Beautiful scenery
Fun night life

Cons

Very hot
Lots of bugs
Long bus rides

My study abroad trip in Heredia, Costa Rica will forever be one of the best decisions I made during college. I decided to go on this trip because some of my sorority sisters went on it the previous year and couldn’t stop raving about it. On the trip, I got to immerse myself in Costa Rican culture. I met ticos (Costa Rican natives), developed better Spanish-speaking skills, and got to try all kinds of different foods. At the same time, I was also earning 7 credits towards my college transcript. The teachers were extremely patient and helpful when correcting my Spanish, and the campus is beautiful. I had to learn how to ride the bus everyday to campus, which was a meaningful experience in itself. My USAC advisors planned trips and activities for my group and I, including playing indoor soccer, roller-skating, going to the city, and exploring tropical rainforests. Overall, studying in Heredia, Costa Rica made me develop life skills and try new things that I wouldn’t have the chance to try anywhere else, making it a truly transformative experience. I recommend the Heredia, Costa Rica study abroad trip to anyone who wants to deepen their cultural understanding and have unforgettable experiences.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?

The most unfamiliar thing I ate was definitely Guaba. Most people think it’s an exotic fruit, but it’s actually a big legume related to peas and lentils. Guaba is very sweet however, and in order to eat it, you have to crack the husk open. After you’ve cracked it, there will be little fuzzy white things inside. You’ll grab one of these and suck the white fuzzy part off of the black/dark brown pit in the middle, and that’s how you eat it. Guaba is unlike anything I’ve ever eaten before.

Pros

Coffee
Fruit
Nature

Cons

Rain

When I embarked on my study abroad program in San Ramon Costa Rica, little did I know that it would be one of the most meaningful and significant experiences in my life. The plane landed and I had entered my journey of studying abroad! I spent four months immersed in Costa Rica's rich culture and breathtaking natural wonders. Learning Spanish was a goal that I was eager to work towards while abroad. My language skills improved tremendously and I learned to speak more of the language each day. I built irreplaceable connections with my host family, and professors, and met some of my best friends. I felt at ease knowing I had the support of my program while abroad. When faced with unfamiliar situations, I embraced new experiences and found ways to adapt. I think about my time in Costa Rica every day and I feel so grateful to have experienced a completely different way of life. I have gained a powerful new perspective, and I have more faith in myself and my abilities. I highly recommend studying abroad with USAC to anyone who might be curious about the opportunity. - Sienna Gordon

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?

Fruits id never seen before! I tried a Grenadine.

Pros

Everything! New adventures
Learn a new language
See new things

Cons

Sometimes its not as clean as the United states
It can be overwhelming
Being aware of your surroundings is important

Questions & Answers

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I decided to go to Costa Rica because it was much cheaper than anywhere else. The first city I decided to spend a semester was called Puntarenas, I choose there because it was cheap and was next to a beach. The second place I went to was Heredia. I chose Heredia because it was cheaper than Puntarenas and had more to offer my Spanish learning.

What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

My program university helped me set up classes. I learned later that they had no Idea how the system worked and I had to redo my entire class schedule. The program took care of all the legal work and visa things I needed to get done. They offered to organize your flight for you, but the costs were very high. Through their program, It would have cost me almost 1200 dollars to get there and come back and do it yourself cost around 600, for the same flights.

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What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Download a ton of music on to your phone. You will be on 3 to 4-hour bus rides every time you want to visit somewhere. Music will make the trip amazing. Also, do not get rid of your Spotify account before you come, You cant get a membership started in Costa Rica, But you can have one. Bring a knife, you will feel safer. bring great sandals and shoes, you will walk a lot. Bring a smaller travel backpack, you will use it a ton.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

Wake up to a meal made by a Costa Rican family. I had a good family so, I would wake up to a glass of fresh squeezed orange juice, some fruit, a pastry, and a thermos of hot tea. would head to school usually with a packed lunch and take Spanish classes all day and during the afternoon a science class. would get home and usually go out. On weekend I would head to a beach in Costa Rica and have an amazing time.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

The only real fear that I had going into Costa Rica was that it would not change me. I was very worried about going into the country for a year and not growing as a person. While in Puntarenas I realized that I could only grow if I wanted to grow and put in the effort to do it. So I decided to switch to a more intense program with less of a party scene. I cut back on my bad habits and surrounded myself with good people. Came to the end of the year and realized that I am whoever I want to be, If I want to be a great person, Then I can be one I just have to stop getting in my own way.

Are there anything more you'd like us share about your experience?

I would have been more careful with what I ate, I got a pretty bad sickness and lost almost 30 pounds when I had no fat to lose. I would also be less patient with my host families, My first family was not great but I was too afraid/unaware to realize they were not good. We fought constantly and she refused to give me a normal amount of food. I did not think this was bad until I go to my second family, and within a week I felt like I was a member of the family. I can barely believe I put up with my first family now knowing how big of a difference a good family can make.

Alexandra Hanton

2016 Alum

Ben Sandberg

2014 Alum

Casey Edmonds

2009 Alum

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Tell us about yourself, Leanne.

I was born in Maryland and raised in Nevada, I’ve enjoyed living on both coasts of the US, as well as in France, Ireland, and Chicago. I graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor’s degree in French and English Literature and a minor in Women’s Studies, and I love writing, history, and hiking in the Sierra Nevadas. I have studied abroad in Pau, Galway, and Cork.

What is your favorite travel memory?

One of my favorite travel memories is of performing in the Galway Arts Festival Macnas Parade in Galway, Ireland along with my fellow theater students and enthusiastic local Galwegians.

We rehearsed for weeks in the buildup to the grand event. On the day of, we spent hours getting into makeup and costumes, then walked through the streets of Galway performing for locals before the parade began.

One of the best moments was during the parade: I looked into the crowd and saw Irish actor Cillian Murphy with his son on his shoulders, enjoying our performance. It was surreal.

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How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I’ve learned so much since my first day at USAC, but I think one of my most significant areas of growth is in confidence. Despite the strides I’d made studying abroad in France, I came to USAC as a shy Peer Advisor, ready to share my experience with fellow students but still a bit nervous and unsure.

Since then, all that I’ve been trained and trusted to accomplish along with the patience and support of the organization have made me decisive and unafraid. USAC has proven to me that I’m capable of great things.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Some of my favorite stories from abroad are love stories — romance that blossomed on a USAC program. We actually did a blog post at the USAC blog on that topic for Valentine’s Day 2017. The stories and photos are total tearjerkers — in a good way!

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

This is like picking a favorite book or movie – so many good ones, so little time! But still, if I were forced to choose, I could see myself going to Chengdu, China.

I advised for China for a while, and I was fortunate enough to get to visit the program site. A week and a half there convinced me that I was ready for the beauty and challenge of life in China. The language, the food, the people, the courses — everything about the program seems like an exciting adventure. Plus, it was completely different from the European places I’d studied before. Sign me up!

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

USAC is special because we really do put the concerns of the student first. We’re a not-for-profit; we choose non-traditional locations with more cultural immersion in mind; we have a “USAC family” of experienced, caring on-site staff on each of our specialty programs.

I was especially proud of my department last year when we processed nearly 750 visa applications at no additional cost to our students. It might sound like a small detail, but the pre-departure stressors like visas can be one of the lowest points of the study abroad process. Making every little thing better for our students is one of our proudest accomplishments.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

The heart! I think no matter how great the business practice, if your core ideals aren’t built on solid foundations of integrity, truth, and good intentions, you’re sabotaging your idea from the start. Stay true to those beliefs and you can’t go wrong.

About USAC

USAC is a non-profit consortium of U.S. universities that collaborates to offer affordable, academic and authentic study abroad programs. There are abundant opportunities to immerse in the culture, history, and academics of other countries providing an unforgettable experience. Each program is designed to help you grow into an engaged citizen of...