UWC Costa Rica is Getting Ready to Move to a New Campus

 
Since its opening in 2006, close to 1,500 alums and current students have experienced the UWC Costa Rica experiential learning model in Santa Ana downtown, a campus inherited from SOS Villages and adapted for the UWC lifestyle. As the college has evolved over the years, the ambition and possibilities of expanding the impact and accessibility to UWC Costa Rica grew alongside it, and thanks to the sheer generosity of Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo, UWC Costa Rica was able to start the dream of building a new campus aligned with its mission, principles, and values.
Fueled by the We Are United campaign and with the Sustainability Framework deeply embedded within, UWC Costa Rica's new campus in San Isidro de Heredia allows the college to expand its mission to a broader audience, increase its capacity and scholarship opportunities and provide a unique space immersed in nature to foster a new generation of agents of change.
UWC Costa Rica is expected to open its new campus in 2026.
 

A Bigger, More Accessible Campus for All

The new campus and Sustainability and Innovation Center will support  Costa Rica, Latin America, and the world in advancing its commitment to:

  • Develop conscious global citizens who are empowered and inspired to take action individually and collectively to help address the world's most significant challenges, mainly related to peace and sustainability. 
  • Co-create education for all people to advocate for peace, sustainability, and international understanding to promote innovative solutions and community engagement opportunities.
  • Build a cutting-edge and innovative infrastructure to set a precedent and be a reference for sustainable construction that, at its core, supports the reciprocity of energy efficiency practices and nature conservation also embedded in each educational component of the campus.
  • Become a living laboratory whereby the community is immersed in restoring and protecting 96 acres (39 hectares) for conservation and educational purposes; models that are scalable and replicated elsewhere.

Sustainability and Innovation Center

The Sustainability and Innovation Center will incorporate innovative learning methodologies and sustainable systems, becoming a hub of educational innovation and social transformation where leading global partnerships can scale impact, facilitate access to educational experiences, and leverage financial stability for UWC Costa Rica. This space will become an exceptional opportunity to unite with leading global partners to amplify our influence as advocates for sustainability, social justice, and peace. Together, we'll expand access to life-changing educational experiences for youth in Costa Rica and worldwide.

Our comprehensive campaign's goal is to become a college with a sustainable infrastructure and a robust scholarship endowment fund that supports learning through innovative education and social transformation.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Please keep in mind information about our new campus is subject to change. We advise you to keep coming back to this site for the most up-to-date updates regarding our future home in San Isidro de Heredia.
 

List of 10 frequently asked questions.

  • What is happening?

    UWC Costa Rica will relocate to a new campus in San Isidro of Heredia in 2025-2026. This move is a significant milestone in the evolution of our college, and it aims to enhance the overall learning experience, expand facilities, and offer new opportunities for our students.

  • Why is the College moving?

    The move to the new campus is driven by the need to provide a more modern, sustainable, and versatile learning environment. The new campus will offer state-of-the-art facilities designed to better support the academic, co-curricular, and residential life of our students.

  • How will the transition be handled?

    The transition will be carefully managed to minimize student learning and activity disruption. We will regularly update families and National Committees, ensuring everyone is informed about key milestones and what to expect during the transition.

  • How will classes be conducted during the move?

    Classes will continue as usual throughout the transition, with careful planning to ensure minimal disruption to students’ education. The College will use a staggered approach for moving equipment and resources to ensure smooth operations.

  • Will there be any changes in College policies or procedures due to the move?

    While the core values and mission of UWC Costa Rica will remain unchanged, there may be some adjustments to policies and procedures to accommodate the new facilities and environment. Any changes will be communicated well in advance.

  • How will the move affect students currently enrolled?

    Current students will experience some changes in their environment as we transition to the new campus. However, we are taking steps to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, with minimal impact on their academic and co-curricular activities.

  • Will students be involved in the transition process?

    Yes, students will be able to participate in various aspects of the transition. This includes activities designed to help them familiarize themselves with the new campus and provide input on certain aspects of the move. Their involvement is key to ensuring a smooth transition.

  • How will the new location benefit the students?

    The new location in San Isidro offers a larger, more versatile space that supports a wider range of activities and programs. The campus is designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and a deep connection with the local community and environment.

  • What should families expect during the transition?

    Families can expect clear and consistent communication regarding the progress of the move. Regular updates about the new campus will include information on new facilities and how they will enhance the student experience. We are committed to addressing any concerns families may have during this period.

  • When will the move take place?

    The transition to the new campus is scheduled for 2026. As details are finalized, exact dates will be communicated closer to the move.

UWC Costa Rica New Campus Updates

Go in-depth with updates regarding the development and launch of our new campus!
 
 
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Our mission: To cultivate in young people the passion and ability to serve humanity and our planet—learning from nature and from each other for a lifetime.

San José, Costa Rica. 10901.
+506 2282 5609 | info@uwccostarica.org
 
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