Santiago's urban and natural framework, its mountainous terrain, and its proximity to Chile's central coastline are ideal for experiencing the nature and culture of the most southern country in the world. USAC offers the opportunity to study Spanish language and contemporary Chilean society through a wide selection of academic courses at the Universidad Andrés Bello, widely regarded as one of Chile's most important private universities.

Type of Program: Provider (USAC)

Accommodations

Homestay: Located within a 30-50 minute commute to the university and will provide you with a room, breakfast and dinner daily. 

*Home School Tuition Model only applies to homestay option at this location*

Courses

Best for students who are interested in the following subjects: 

• Spanish Language 

• Latin American Cultures

• Journalism 

• International Studies

• Business and Economics (limited)

• Communications

You will enroll in 12 to 18 credits per semester comprised of language courses plus electives in Latin American culture, journalism, and international studies. All students must complete a minimum of one language course, although we strongly encourage students to complete an entire language track. Course availability is contingent upon student enrollment and is subject to change. 

Required Documents

Visa: 

U.S. citizens studying for a semester or summer session will receive a 90-day tourist visa at customs upon arrival. During on-site orientation, the USAC staff will explain how to renew the tourist visa for the full length of your program, if applicable. Further information will be posted in your USAC Student Gateway account in the Immigration Guide, which you will receive after you have been accepted into the program (about four months prior to departure). All visa related costs, including travel, are your responsibility

Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica (UNA) in Heredia is one of four public universities in the country. Founded in 1973, its main campus in Heredia hosts over 19,000 students. All USAC classes and the USAC office are located on campus. Wifi and computer labs are available for research and coursework. UNA has successfully been working with USAC-Heredia since 1995, and it is one of the most academically successful public universities in Costa Rica. 

Type of Program: Provider (USAC)

Eligibility:

• Are at least 18 years old 

• Enrolled in a university degree-seeking program 

• Minimum GPA: 2.5 

• In good academic, disciplinary, and community standing.

• Meet any additional pre-requisites of the specific program

Program Deadlines

October 15: Application Deadline (Spring) 

March 15: Application Deadline (Summer) 

May 15: Application Deadline (Fall) 

Program Housing

Homestay: The families are located within easy commuting distance of the university and will provide you with daily breakfast and dinner. You’ll have a private bedroom and laundry service. Homestays are the only living accommodations offered by USAC. To live in an apartment, it will be your responsibility to locate it and to make all rental agreements and payments. 

Courses

Best for students who are interested in taking the following: 

• Spanish Language 

• Literature & Culture 

• Health, Sport, and Science Courses 

Students may enroll in 12 to 18 semester credits each term. All students must complete a minimum of one Spanish language course, although we strongly encourage students to complete an entire language track.

Required Documents

Passport: 

To study abroad, you must have a signed, valid passport from your country of citizenship that will not expire for a minimum of six months after your planned return date. If you do not have a passport, or it's about to expire, make sure you apply or renew as soon as possible! U.S. Citizens can refer to the U.S. Department of State’s website for more information about passports and processing time. 

Visa: 

U.S. citizens will receive a 180-day tourist visa at customs upon arrival in Costa Rica. During on-site orientation, the USAC staff will explain how to change the tourist visa to a "visa de estancia" or "permission to stay". The visa de estancia allows you to reside and study in Costa Rica for the full length of your program. You are responsible for paying the cost of the visa de estancia.

Further information will be posted to your USAC Student Gateway account in the Immigration Guide, which you will receive after you've been accepted into the program (about four months prior to departure).