A fully-funded study abroad in Costa Rica
Following your first semester of ASU, join a cohort of other ASU students and professors on a nine-day transformative journey and unforgettable adventure to Monteverde, Costa Rica. Broaden your horizons, deepen your understanding of global issues, embrace new experiences and immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of Costa Rica.
Through a dynamic blend of academic exploration, cultural exchange and outdoor discovery, you will engage with the complexities of Costa Rican society, history and environment, while forging lasting connections with your peers and the local communities that we will explore.
Never left the country before? This is the perfect opportunity! We'll help you every step of the way from getting your passport, to flying you there.
Location
Monteverde, Costa Rica
Renowned for its stunning cloud forests, Monteverde offers an enchanting blend of biodiversity and ecotourism. Located in the beautiful town of San Luis in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province, the CIEE Monteverde Center is surrounded by lush forests and the Pacific coast. CIEE Monteverde is set on 60 hectares (nearly 150 acres) of rainforest and farmland. Students can expect plenty of outdoor time and access to many common areas to promote experiential and traditional learning.
Housing
Students will stay in shared accommodations at the CIEE Monteverde Center. Most meals will be provided on campus. The Center is fully equipped with four classrooms, a student lounge, a library, a student life office, an academic advising office, and complimentary WiFi, computers, and printer access.
Program Cost: $0
This program is fully funded for participating students.
What's included?
✅ Round trip airfare from Phoenix to Costa Rica
✅ Airport transfer in Costa Rica
✅ Shared accommodations
✅ All meals
✅ Program transportation
✅ All excursions, tours, cultural activities and educational experiences
✅ Passport
✅ International health insurance
✅ ASU faculty support
Passports
Passport costs will be covered for students who do not have a passport, or for those whose passport expires prior to June 1, 2026.
Students who have a current valid passport must bring their passport to campus during Early Start.
Students who need a passport must bring their original birth certificate with them to campus during Early Start, along with a driver's license (or state ID). Photocopies will not be accepted. Students will meet with a Passport Agent during their appointment in the Passport Caravan to receive their passport for free.
Meet your Program Leaders
These ASU faculty and staff members will be leading and teaching you on your program.
Paul LePore
Associate Dean
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Jessica Early
Professor
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Department of English
Zachary Shaffer
Assistant Teaching Professor
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Life Sciences
Jeffery Banner
Senior Director of Student Success and Outreach
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Program itinerary
Your program itinerary is broken into morning, afternoon and evening blocks. Each day focuses on a different aspect of the Costa Rican culture and environment.
Program itinerary is subject to change.