What to Expect

Expect a lot! A two-year educational journey abroad can be intense, so you must begin to plan, research, and read to prepare. This is the start of a journey that will last a lifetime.

This section is divided into three parts: the educational experience at UWC Costa Rica, life at the current campus, and life at the new campus.
 

Educational Model

As the only UWC in Latin America and the Caribbean, UWC Costa Rica offers a bilingual program and opportunities to learn more about the region’s social, political, and cultural history and explore Costa Rica. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), in conjunction with the distinctive UWC educational experience, joining the Academic, Co-Curricular, and Residential Life & Wellbeing Programs into an unforgettable two-year experience in Costa Rica.

Academics

At UWC Costa Rica, we offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP), renowned worldwide for its challenging and comprehensive curriculum. This two-year program provides students with a broad and balanced educational experience, preparing them for future university studies. The IB Diploma is highly recognized by universities globally.

*We do not offer the National Baccalaureate for students from Costa Rica.
 

List of 5 items.

  • Assessment and Reporting

    • Grades are available four times yearly, with complete reports provided twice annually through BlackBaud.
    • The IB grading scale ranges from one (1) to seven (7), with four (4)  as a satisfactory pass mark.
    • For the IB, a minimum overall score of 24 points is required (students also need a minimum of nine (9) points at SL and 12 at HL). Lower grades in one or two subjects may be compensated by higher grades in others at the same level and by a maximum of three (3) points for the Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay.

  • Curriculum Structure

    • Students study six (6) academic subjects, three (3) at a higher level (HL) and three (3) at a standard level (SL).
    • The curriculum core includes Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS).
    • At UWC Costa Rica, we have placement tests in English, Spanish, and Math to ensure that our students are placed in the right course and level for their abilities. 

    *Note: Students with no experience in Spanish need not take the placement test in the language. They will be placed in Spanish AB initio should they want to have Spanish as part of their Diploma.

    • standard level (SL).
    • The curriculum core includes Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS).
    • At UWC Costa Rica, we have placement tests in English, Spanish, and Math to ensure that our students are placed in the right course and level for their abilities. 

    *Note: Students with no experience in Spanish need not take the placement test in the language. They will be placed in Spanish AB initio should they want to have Spanish as part of their Diploma.

    If a subject does not have at least seven students selecting it, we cannot offer the course. There is also a subject change period; however, students cannot switch to courses that have already reached their maximum capacity (18 students for non-laboratory subjects and 16 for laboratory subjects).

  • International Baccalaureate Program (IBDP) guidelines

    • Students joining with prior IBDP enrollment must inform the Academic office and submit transcripts of the current year to their Blackbaud account.
    • Pre-studied subjects cannot be repeated, but equivalents may be chosen. For example, if the student has already done one year of English Language and Literature, they should switch to English Literature. The IB is stringent that the Diploma Programme should be carried out over two years, not three, so that some students do not have an unfair advantage over others.
    • The College assumes that students and faculty accept and respect the principles of intellectual honesty. Any cheating, including an unsuccessful attempt, is considered very serious and subject to disciplinary procedures. The IB regulations regarding academic honesty are specific, and any deviation from these regulations may result in a student being disqualified and ineligible to receive the IB Diploma.

  • Learning Support

    • Support is available for time management, study techniques, and academic challenges.
    • Coordination with English Language Support (ELS) is provided for students with language barriers.
    • Students with specific learning needs should provide documentation in English, French, or Spanish for accommodations (no older than two (2) years).
    For learning support inquiries, contact learning.uwccr@uwccostarica.org

  • Weekly Schedule

    • Classes run from 7:30 am to 1:20 pm, with protected afternoons for CAS activities, tutorials, university visits, and meetings.
    • Evening activities include residence meetings, cleaning duties, and check-ins.

Co-Curricular

The Co-Curricular Program at UWC Costa Rica enriches students' holistic education by promoting a balanced lifestyle through interests, passions, and service initiatives. It fosters personal growth, intercultural understanding, and leadership while complementing academics and wellness. Through experiential learning, students develop responsibility, respect, and a deeper connection to Costa Rican culture, embracing values of compassion, service, and environmental stewardship.
 

List of 2 items.

  • CAS Activities

    Activity name
    CAS Strand
    Football CAS
    Activity
    Running
    Activity
    Basketball
    Activity
    Self Defense
    Activity
    Yoga
    Activity
    Volleyball
    Activity
    Swimming
    Activity
    Better Football
    Activity
    Service
    Baking CAS
    Creativity
    Rhymers' Poetry
    Creativity
    Origami CAS
    Creativity
    Urban & Contemporary Dance
    Creativity
    Film Production
    Creativity
    Card Games
    Creativity
    Crochet for Cancer
    Creativity
    Music CAS
    Creativity
    Development CAS
    Creativity
    *Service
    Afro Dance
    Creativity
    Activity
    Chess
    Creativity
    Activity
    Asian Dance
    Creativity
    Activity
    Mandarin
    Creativity
    Service
    Aerial Silks
    Creativity/Activity
    National Committee Ambassador CAS
    Service
    Greenhouse
    Service
    Write for Rights
    Service
    Waste Management
    Service
    ARDEI
    Service
    CAS Helpers
    Service
    UWC Endowment Investment Club
    Service
    Global Issues
    Service
    MUN Club
    Service
    Duka
    Service
    Eco Bricks
    Service
    Campus Naturalists
    Service
    Tennis
    Activity
    Library CAS
    Service
    Creative writing
    Creativity
    Lifting Hands
    Service

  • Distinguishing Between Co-Curricular and CAS

    Co-curricular experiences at UWC Costa Rica encompass many initiatives that enhance students' experiential learning journey. They are designed to support students in maintaining their physical and emotional well-being while providing meaningful opportunities to engage with and contribute to various communities in Costa Rica. Through these experiences, students embody the UWC values and develop into well-rounded, responsible individuals prepared to impact the world positively. Individual interviews with students and the UWC Portfolio are spaces where students reflect upon their educational experiences and outcomes.  

    Some of these experiences and initiatives include: 
    • Conociendo Costa Rica (CCR): Exploring the rich cultural and natural heritage of Costa Rica.
    • Community Action Week (CAW): Participating in an intensive week of community service and cultural immersion throughout the host country.
    • Community Action Weekends (CAWnd): Engaging in local community service projects over weekends and sustaining the work of key community action week projects.
    • Model United Nations (MUN): Developing diplomatic and debate skills through simulation of UN conferences.
    • Agents of Change (AoC): Empowering students to initiate and lead projects that drive social change.
    • Thematic Weeks (TW): Immersing in focused thematic explorations that deepen intercultural understanding and may address issues of local or global concern.
    • IB Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Experiences: Defined by the International Baccalaureate and an essential part of the UWC’s Students’ Journey Portfolio.

    While CAS is one of the co-curricular initiatives, it holds a unique place within the broader spectrum of activities. CAS is primarily student-led and aims to leverage the diverse socio-cultural backgrounds and skills of UWC students through peer learning. It encourages creativity, physical activity, and community service, allowing students to take initiative and demonstrate personal commitment to their chosen activities.

Residential Life & Well-Being

Residential Life and Wellbeing is a cornerstone experience at UWC Costa Rica. It fosters lifelong friendships, cultural exchange, and appreciation for diversity. Our comprehensive program ensures a safe and respectful environment, maximizing enjoyment and educational opportunities.

Our student life projects emphasize cooperation and respect, and residence coordinators, health services, counseling, and integrated well-being programming support it.
 

List of 4 items.

  • Expectations from the students in the Residential Life

    • To share his/her own culture in the residence.
    • To participate in all residential meetings and discussions to promote learning through the residential experience.
    • To put into practice the college’s values within the residence in preparation for making significant societal changes beyond the college experience.
    • Be willing to share different beliefs and perspectives with others.
    • Adhere to waste management and sustainability policies and required actions such as recycling and composting.

  • Student's Dorms

    Eight residences accommodate up to 28 students each, and every student is entitled to shared spaces, respect, and a clean environment. Expectations include sharing one's culture, active participation in residence activities, following sustainability guidelines and daily actions, and embodying the college's values.

    Each room is equipped to host two to four students, and all students are entitled to the following:
    • Be in their room whenever they want to. No student should ever feel excluded from their room due to another student’s behavior.
    • Be respected.
    • Sleep without interference.
    • Have their belongings respected.
    • Live in a clean environment.
    • Be free of fear or derision.

  • Sustainability

    UWC Costa Rica is committed to creating a sustainable future through its Sustainability Framework.  This framework includes a whole-college approach that includes sustainability discussions and actions in the classroom, residential life, co-curricular activities, and throughout the campus. 

    Students are expected to contribute and show their commitment  towards the following: 
    • Recycling: As a collective effort to reduce each person’s environmental footprint, promote healthier communities, participate in the circular economy, and create awareness of consumption habits. 
    • Composting: As a simple yet impactful way to reduce food waste and promote soil health.
    • Electricity Conservation: By turning off lights, fans, AC, and chargers to decrease campus energy consumption and, consequently, the College’s carbon footprint.
    • Water Conservation: Be mindful of water conservation, such as not leaving the water running when not in use, keeping showers to a maximum of 10 minutes, and using a laundry machine for full loads only.

    By adhering to these principles, everyone actively contributes to the Sustainability Framework and the values our community holds dear. Every action counts, and collectively, a substantial impact is achievable by conserving resources and creating a more environmentally responsible and sustainable future. 

  • Wellness

    At UWC Costa Rica, we are deeply committed to the holistic well-being of our students. Through initiatives designed to nurture mental, physical, and emotional health, we ensure that everyone in our community feels supported and empowered. The Wellness Support team provides a comprehensive framework that promotes resilience, balance, and healthy lifestyles. Accessible counseling services, skill-building workshops, and peer-led activities foster a culture of empathy and inclusivity, ensuring every student feels valued and supported in their personal growth.

    UWC Costa Rica offers students tailored mental health care through one-on-one counseling sessions with trained wellness counselors and psychologists. These professionals provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental space for students to address their emotions and challenges and set personal goals. Utilizing evidence-based therapeutic techniques, students are guided in developing effective coping strategies, emotional resilience, and self-awareness. 
    Student-led initiatives like the Well-being Spaces empower students to explore mental health, identity, and stress management through creative and reflective activities. Supervised by staff, these spaces promote personal growth, effective time management, and a strong sense of community.

    Finally, our team creates structured events and experiences to support students during significant transitions, including first-year camps and Farewell Week activities. These initiatives help students process life changes, foster intercultural understanding, and build meaningful connections. Through these spaces, students develop social skills, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for their UWC journey, equipping them to thrive within and beyond our campus.

Studying in Costa Rica

Life is pretty casual at UWC Costa Rica, but occasionally, you will need to dress formally (think: Graduation, MUN, Prom, as a few examples). For most days, however, modest summer clothing is welcomed. The evenings can be cool, so sweaters or jackets are handy, but the usual dress code is comfortable, clean, and modest attire. 

It is also a good idea to have sturdy shoes for walking, hiking, or climbing, a sleeping bag, and old clothes that you can use for service projects, orientation, and muddy days. Umbrellas and hats or baseball caps are a good idea, too. Shoes are always required to be worn outside the residence.
Costa Rica has two seasons: wet and dry. Be prepared for very hot, humid weather, as well as windy and rainy weather. Of course, most days are perfect, but when it rains, it pours. Keep sunscreen and mosquito repellent near you!

Belongings

These guides have been made in conjunction with our students so that you have the most realistic input possible. We have constant opportunities to engage with students, so feel free to reach out if you want to ask us or any current student living on campus something!
 

List of 4 items.

  • Clothing

    • Summer clothes (T-shirts, shorts, dresses, etc.)
    • Warmer clothes (Sweaters, long pants, etc.)
      • (It gets hot here by day, yet it cools off at night; you can wear warmer clothes! Yet don’t pack too many for your first year; they take up a lot of space in your suitcase.)
    • Rain jacket, umbrella…
      • (When you arrive, it will be the rainy season, so you will get drenched. A lot.)
    • Enough socks and underwear!
      • (We’re convinced that the laundry machines eat them, so bring one of those small mesh laundry bags to keep your stuff together)
    • Swimsuits
      • (The closest beach is over an hour away, so you probably won’t go there as much as you'd think. Two (2) swimsuits will suffice.)
    • Bring a flag of every country you have lived in and the national outfit of the country you identify most with!
      • (if your country does not have a national outfit, bring something that at least represents it (like clothing in your national colors), as we have multiple cultural days and parades, and it’s pretty sad to just walk around in your regular clothes)
        • If you need advice or suggestions about National Costume, contact current students!
      • Flags for specific geographic regions (i.e. Québec or Bretagne)  or identities (i.e. pride) are also recommended and welcomed.
    • At least two formal outfits
      • (You will participate in events requiring formal clothes, like MUN.)
    • Fancy clothes
      • (For formal dances -> comfy heels, suits, etc.)
    • Sneakers, sports shoes, flip flops, fancy shoes (yes, you need all of them)
      • Shower shoes- flip flops and crocs are popular options
    • Clothes you don’t mind getting DIRTY, and at least one white shirt for events like Holi.
    • Sports clothes (leggings are highly recommended)

  • Tech & Personal Belongings

    • Laptop, phone (and chargers!)
      • (In Costa Rica, we use the same plugs as in the USA (type A and B), so bring converters if needed. You can also buy one when you arrive.)
      • If you have a MacBook, it’s good to bring a USB-C Adaptor for presentations or even a laptop that doesn’t have the standard HDMI connection for the projector. (Usually, teachers have an adaptor in their classrooms, but it's better to bring yours.)
      • If you don't have a laptop, we recommend obtaining one with no less than 8GM of RAM and 256 GB of SSD (internal storage). We have an IT team for general revisions, but we strongly recommend having a computer with global support.
    • Flash Drives (at least one)
    • Scientific graphing calculator
      • The best one is the Texas Instruments TI-84. You can get a calculator from the College if your scholarship is 100%. However, as there are not enough for everyone, they will lend faster to those who cannot afford one, so if you can, buy one.
    • A couple of Notebooks/Folders
      • The school provides textbooks and digital copies, yet you might want to take old notes with you or a textbook in your language if that might help (mind that your luggage has a weight limit, though)
    • A debit or credit card (that is pre-approved and works in Costa Rica)
      • Make sure you have it set so that it works in Latin America! Otherwise, getting money through a bank is complicated and takes forever. This will make your life easier. Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted everywhere, and American Express Cards are accepted in most (yet not all) places.
    • Overnight bag 
      • Popular options are hiking backpacks and gym/duffel bags, which are very helpful for camps and individual overnights in Costa Rica. We recommend one that you can fit a change of clothes, water bottle, and other daily necessities into. Consider using one as hand luggage on the airplane.
    • Headphones
      • They help to concentrate!
    • If you’re religious, bring what you need to pray.
    • A reusable water bottle and mug
      • (hydration & sustainability!)
    • Toiletries
      • You can buy everything here, but when you first arrive, you won’t want to rush to the shop next door and buy everything. Make sure you can last a couple of days with what you bring.
        • This is especially true for laundry detergent and shampoo (it’s hard to leave campus for the first week, and you don't want to be stuck without clean hair and clothes). However, people are very friendly about sharing, so don’t worry if you don’t have space to bring anything. 
    • Lice comb + lice shampoo 
      • (On a closed-off community like ours, when lice get on campus, they travel FAST, so be prepared. Bring medicine from home; bringing things you are used to is ideal.)
    • Bug spray, afterbite… 
      • (There are few mosquitos on campus, yet when you go to the rainforest or further inland, you’ll be happy to have it!) Check how much Deet they have; the more, the better!
    • Sunscreen
      • Easy to find in Costa Rica, but quite expensive. If you have specific preferences or want to save money, bring some of your own!
    • Medicines
      • We recommend a first aid kit that you compose yourself with the necessities! This would include basic painkillers, allergy medicine, cold/flu medicine, etc. (if you are on sleeping pills, bring your own; if you’re on any type of medication - bring enough to last until the next time you go home).
      • Also, if you are prone to injuries, get a brace. ENSURE ALL OF YOUR ALLERGIES, ESPECIALLY ALLERGIES TO MEDICATIONS, ARE ON YOUR MEDICAL FORM! (And remember, this is for personal use. The College has rules regarding sharing medication among students.
    • For menstruating students
      • You can find most of the stuff (pads are easy to find, but tampons are more complex. If you prefer tampons, you should bring extra packages. We try to keep a supply on campus, and many second-years are bringing extra from home, so you can borrow if needed). For the most part, though, you can find everything you need here!
      • Menstruation cups are cool, comfortable, and sustainable. They are very recommended!
      • If you’re on the Pill, make sure you bring enough to last a whole semester!
    • Towels
      • The College does not supply them. It is recommended to have two, at least one for showering and one that can double for the beach.
    •  If you have Type 4 hair and want to braid it, relax it, or even treat it, bring your products, e.g., extensions, relaxers, weaves, etc. (In San Jose, they can be costly and may not have everything you need/want).
      • Also, bring any specific styling products you use (deep conditioners, gels, oils, etc.)

  • Extras

    • Snacks or spices from home (If you are worried about being homesick, having some familiar flavors might be nice! It's also fun to share with your friends worldwide!)
    • Room decorations (pictures, photo frames, fairy lights, printed fabric, etc)
    • This can be purchased or printed on/near campus, but if you have space in your suitcase, it might be cheaper to bring these items.
    • Spare glasses or contacts (these are often lost on campus, so having extras can save you money)
    • Extension cords are useful for charging devices, lamps, and fans in rooms, but they are quite expensive in CR, so bring your own!

  • Notes from Students

    Some people prefer to sew name tags onto all their clothing, which is a good idea. Mark anything that is yours so that if it gets lost, it is easier to claim. It is also recommended to bring towels, personal toiletries, an alarm clock or phone, mosquito repellent, and a plug adapter. However, all of these things may also be purchased locally.

    Bring anything that will make your room more comfortable, and remember that you will be sharing a small space with two to three other people –probably from an entirely different part of the world than you come from–.

Medical

At UWC Costa Rica, medical coverage is available 24 hours a day during the academic year. The college’s medical team consists of licensed health professionals, including part-time doctors who conduct in-person evaluations on campus four days a week. Nurses oversee the daily operations of the medical team, maintain medical records for students, and promote health and wellness practices. Paramedics monitor students’ health and respond to emergencies when nurses are off-duty, typically during weekends or overnight shifts. An ambulance service is available around the clock, providing transport to local medical facilities and bringing doctors to campus for urgent situations.
 

List of 1 items.

  • Medical Insurance

    At UWC Costa Rica, medical coverage is available 24 hours a day during the academic year. The college’s medical team consists of licensed health professionals, including part-time doctors who conduct in-person evaluations on campus four days a week. Nurses oversee the daily operations of the medical team, maintain medical records for students, and promote health and wellness practices. Paramedics monitor students’ health and respond to emergencies when nurses are off-duty, typically during weekends or overnight shifts. An ambulance service is available around the clock, providing transport to local medical facilities and bringing doctors to campus for urgent situations.  

    Medical insurance is included in the fees you pay to attend. The insurance pays a percentage of the expenses. Families will have to cover the difference.Pre-existing conditions, dentistry, ophthalmology, pregnancy, use of drugs, alcohol, chemical substances, self-harm, or some international travel are not covered by the student’s health insurance, and treatments must be paid for by the student, family, or legal guardians.

    Families should be aware of the College’s insurance coverage details. If additional coverage is needed, families must purchase international insurance before entering Costa Rica.

    For questions about medical services at UWC Costa Rica or the General Health form to be submitted during your enrollment process, please contact medical.admissions@uwccostarica.org 
    To find more information about college insurance, please click here.

Food & Money

The Cafeteria offers meal options to accommodate diverse dietary preferences and needs. Typically, there are vegetarian/vegan options for every meal service. The Cafeteria Staff strives to provide balanced, tasty choices to energize and satisfy students. If food remains at the end of each meal service, students may return to the line for an additional portion.
 

List of 3 items.

  • Allergies & Diet Restrictions

    Allergies, Diet Restrictions, Needs, Food allergies, and dietary restrictions are taken very seriously. To ensure the safety and well-being of all students, students and families are expected to follow these guidelines:

    • During the initial health assessment, allergies must be reported to the college Nurses/Health Team and Residential Coordinators (RCs). This information is crucial for cafeteria staff to prepare safe and suitable meals. 
    • The medical information on the health assessment form is shared with relevant teams, including the cafeteria, to ensure proper food management for students with food intolerances or allergies. 
    • While the cafeteria team does its best to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions, students must inquire about the ingredients when in doubt. The cafeteria staff will be happy to assist with ingredient information.

  • Food Outside Cafeteria Hours

    Currently, extra meal service for a fee is not offered, but students can cook for themselves in residences, go off campus during approved leave time, or order food delivery when they wish to eat other things.  A limited number of cooking utensils and receptacles are provided in each residence. Then students typically purchase or bring any additional items needed to make their favorite meals in residences. 

    Please be aware that UWC Costa Rica cannot meet all dietary needs on campus, such as Halal and Kosher food.

  • Pocket Money

    We recommend students bring approximately $700 per year, or more, for pocket money, depending on spending habits. We do not recommend making arrangements to find colones, the Costa Rican currency, ahead of time, as the exchange rate varies rapidly.

    Many places accept US dollars, and there are numerous banks, ATMs (ensure your card is international and will work in Costa Rica), and cash points.

Our Current Campus: Santa Ana

Our current campus in the heart of Santa Ana allows students to engage with the Costa Rican community directly while still being surrounded by nature. Unlike most UWC schools and colleges, our campus is in the middle of the city, allowing students to engage with local communities and enjoy local cuisine and activities off-campus.

The College is transitioning to a new space in San Isidro, Heredia, offering many learning opportunities in nature for the new generations; a campus surrounded by 40 hectares of a nature reserve is an ideal place for an inverse and transformative experience in connection with nature.

Wildlife

Costa Rica is a tropical country that hosts almost 6% of the world's biodiversity. Campus life also has some biodiversity, and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment in residences, classrooms, and shared spaces around campus is essential. 
Campus life allows for appreciating biodiversity and wildlife, such as birds, iguanas, raccoons, armadillos, squirrels, and insects. Respecting their habitat while keeping them separate from human areas is essential. Students must do their part to maintain a safe environment and avoid drawing wildlife into human spaces, such as raccoons, snakes, and/or pests like ants, termites, flies, and cockroaches. 
Some expectations and practices for all community members include storing food in sealed containers in designated spaces in the kitchen or common areas, not feeding wildlife on campus, proper waste management, and closing all doors when leaving any building or room.

 

Sending Packages

We strongly DO NOT recommend sending or receiving packages. Costa Rican customs are complex. UWC Costa Rica staff is not responsible for retrieving students' packages retained at customs or providing transportation for the procedure.  Packages with food, candies, chocolates, used clothes or shoes, medicines, medical items, cosmetics, natural products, and electronic devices (cameras, computers, etc.) would be held for procedures in customs (taxes and additional permission would be required).

Sometimes, the cost of taxes is higher than what the package contains. Other times, permits from the Health Ministry and other entities are necessary, and it involves time-consuming bureaucratic procedures. Also, we have noticed that most of the items sent to students can be found in Costa Rica.

Check the policy.

Take a look at our campus!

 

Our Future Campus: San Isidro

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.

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.
 
 
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

 
All Rights Reserved |  UWC Costa Rica © 2025