Study Abroad:
Spanish Intensive
San José Costa Rica
Highlights
Our Spanish Intensive Program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain immersive international experience while continuing to train for their sport, develop lasting friendships with fellow athletes from across the U.S., and enjoy a life-changing experience abroad.
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Students will enroll in a 4-week Spanish course through our partner Veritas University, a top ranked international university in Latin America. In addition, students will have the opportunity to take part in optional service-learning activities coaching local youth or participate in other weekly cultural activities.
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This program is available to both athletes and non-athletes of all majors. After enrollment students will take a placement test for one of the following courses:
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Basic I & II
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Intermediate I & II
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Advanced I & II
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Business Spanish
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Health in Spanish
Program Description
Students will enroll in an intensive Spanish language course at Veritas University, following a brief placement test to determine their level. The course runs 5 days a week and consists of 60 hours of instruction, equivalent to 4 academic credits. Our local staff will provide guidance throughout the placement process and offer ongoing support during the program.
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For students seeking academic credit, we collaborate closely to ensure the course aligns with their home university’s requirements. If you'd like a copy of the course syllabus, please reach out to our team.
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In their free afternoons, students have the option to participate in service-learning activities, including coaching local youth in partnership with Special Olympics. This hands-on experience provides an enriching way to engage with the local community.​
Life in San José
Lodging & Meals
Students will be warmly welcomed into our network of host families, offering them a unique immersion experience into local customs and language. Each homestay includes:
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Breakfast & dinner, daily (dietary restrictions accommodated)
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Private bedroom with essential furnishings: bed, linens, bath towels, closet, & nightstand
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Private or shared bathroom
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Laundry, available weekly
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At least one English-speaking family member
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After enrollment, students will complete a housing questionnaire to help our local team match them with the most suitable host family, based on their preferences and needs.
Sports Abroad
Students will be given access to a centrally located gym, allowing them to maintain their individual fitness routines with 4-5 workouts per week.
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In addition, students will have opportunities to engage with local sports teams and participate in training sessions alongside U.S. and international athletes, depending on their sport and location.
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Our team is committed to supporting each student’s athletic goals. We will work closely with students to craft a personalized training plan, based on availability, which can be discussed during the interview process.
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We will ensure the best possible facilities that a location can offer.
Excursions
Two weekends of the program include guided excursions led by SAA staff, with all lodging, meals, and transportation provided. The additional weekend is free for students to organize their own independent travel.
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One weekend will feature a trip to the stunning Pacific Coast to visit Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its array of Costa Rican wildlife and pristine beaches. Students can also enjoy optional surfing lessons at world-famous surf spots or sun-bathe on the beach.
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Another weekend will take students to the town of La Fortuna, where they will zipline through the rainforest, hike around the iconic Arenal Volcano, and unwind in the world's largest naturally heated hot springs—perfect for soothing tired muscles.
Program Details
Dates:
Session I: May 30 - June 28, 2025
Session II: July 4 - August 2, 2025
Tuition: $5495
Included:
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Tuition and fees for one course at Veritas University
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Official Transcript from Veritas University
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Homestay accommodation
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Breakfast & dinner, daily
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Round-trip airport transfers (on arrival & departure days)
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Two weekend excursions
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Gym membership
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Sport-specific training opportunities (varies by sport)
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Service-learning activities
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International Health Insurance
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SAA Program T-Shirt
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Full pre-departure support & orientation
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Local Support Staff 24/7
Not Included:
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Roundtrip airfare to San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO)
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Passport/associated fees, if applicable
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Lunch, daily
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Snacks, souvenirs, & optional entertainment expenses
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Card fees associated with tuition payments (ranging from 3-5%, varies by card). Card fees can be avoided by paying with a US Checking Account.
Payment:
​If accepted, a $250 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot. The remaining balance will be paid in installments. Exact payment dates and amounts are outlined in registration. ​
Capacity:
This program is capped at 12 students. Programs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Admission Process
1. Apply
Fill out a free application form. We are looking for students who are invested in their professional and personal growth.
2. Interview
Applicants selected to move forward will receive an email to schedule a 20-minute phone interview with our admissions team.
3. Register
If selected, you'll receive the link to register for your program. A $250 deposit is required to reserve your spot.
Questions?
Schedule a call with our team or check out the additional resources on our website!
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