If you're a student who's considering pursuing your college education as an international student, there are not many locations that are as exotic and beautiful as Costa Rica. The Republic of Costa Rica – its official name – is located in Central America. Neighboring countries include Panama and Nicaragua, and it is also surrounding by the Carribean on the east, and the Pacific Ocean on the west.

From coastal cities, flowing rivers, and cascading waterfalls to its two large mountain ranges, vast forest lands and Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica is an ecology, biology, and environmental student's dream destination. As far as wildlife goes, you can find sloths, monkeys, and toucans living in their natural habitats. Birds, plantlife and other exotic species are commonplace as well.

Because of its natural outdoor beauty Costa Rica is one of the most popular desitnations for outdoor water and land sports including hiking, mountain climbing, fishing, and surfing. For international students, it's like being on an extreme sports Spring Break all semester long.

Cultural Costa Rica
Whether you're seeking a fun night of music and dancing, or you're studying music, you'll experience many different musical genres in Costa Rica. From Cumbia to Reggaeton, percussion and Latin flair keep the beat going. Music and dance are a big part of the culture, so put on your dancing shoes and take a break from the books.

As for other Costa Rican cultural differences, students will quickly get a sense of the patriotism on display among both the younger and older generations. Costa Ricans are proud people – in fact, radio stations regularly play the national anthem.

Education is a Top Priority in Costa Rica
For international students, cultural and language immersion programs provide the most intense and realistic introduction to Costa Rican life and the Spanish language, the country's native language. However, there are a number of different types of college education opportunities from which to choose, many of which are provided in English. Costa Rica is home to public institutions, private universities, university colleges, and trade-oriented schools. In addition, regional institutions of higher education are overseen by the country's Ministerial of Education.

On a national level, The Pathways to Higher Education programs help bring students from various socioeconomic backgrounds together to reap the benefits of a Costa Rican higher education experience. Many institutions participate in the program.

Because of Costa Rica's landcape and culture, among the most popular courses of study in the country's colleges include ecology, environmental studies, and language and literature. International business is also a favorite. In addition, many international students studying in Costa Rica participate in volunteer projects and extracurricular activities that help them better experience the country's people and culture.

Studying in Costa would definitely be the experience of a lifetime. Whether you go for a semester or an entire college career, the diversity and beauty of Costa Rica, along with the emphasis on excellence in education assures you will not be disappointed.