Private Schools in Costa Rica: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you planning to relocate to Costa Rica with your children? As a parent, one of your primary concerns is finding the right school for your children. Fortunately, Costa Rica has an excellent education system, with one of the highest literacy rates in Latin America at 97.8%. In this article, we’ll guide you through the private school education options available in Costa Rica.

Education Options in the Central Valley

Various educational options will be available if you plan to live in the Central Valley. You can find the right school for your child, from public to private colleges. Private schools in the Central Valley offer a range of programs, including Montessori and Catholic schools. These schools typically provide education up to the 11th and National Baccalaureate grades.

Education Options Outside the Central Valley

If you plan to live outside the Central Valley, your educational options will be more limited.  However, since every institution is different, you’ll need to ask your desired school whether there are any alternatives.

Types of Diplomas

Costa Rica offers three types of diplomas, depending on your child’s school.

1. Costa Rican Bachillerato Diploma (MEP) The Costa Rican Ministry of Education accredits the Costa Rican Bachillerato Diploma. The National Baccalaureate/Diploma of Costa Rica allows students to take the MEP testing in the 6th, 9th, and 11th grades. Students can apply to the University of Costa Rica after earning this degree.
2. International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) The International Baccalaureate Diploma is accredited by the IBO in Geneva, Switzerland. To earn this diploma, students must complete and test in six IB subjects, write an extended 4000-word essay of independent research, complete 150 hours of (CAS) creative, action, and service activities, and participate in a critical thinking course called Theory of Knowledge. The program begins in the 11th grade and is completed in the 12th grade. This degree allows students to enter universities in the USA, Europe, or Latin America.
3. USA High School Diploma (SACS) The United States Diploma allows entrance into universities in the United States, Europe, and other parts of the world. However, more than this diploma is needed to get you into a university in Costa Rica. The United States Diploma is available at all American Schools in Costa Rica.

Accreditation of Education in Costa Rica

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredits American schools in Costa Rica. Other accreditations may include the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. American students without the IB choose two diplomas to broaden their university possibilities. The National Baccalaureate precedes the US Diploma program in 12th grade. Many students enroll in AP (Advanced Placement) classes in the 12th grade to earn college credit. AP courses are available in many subjects, from English to Calculus. If you’re interested in taking Advanced Placement classes, check with your prospective school to see what options they offer.

School Calendar year

The local calendar runs from mid-February to the end of November, followed by public, Catholic, and certain private European schools. Schools that follow the US curriculum use the US calendar, which runs from the middle of August to the end of June, with a month off for Christmas in December and January.

Families can choose from three diplomas in Costa Rica:

The Costa Rican Bachillerato Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and the USA High School Diploma. Each certificate offers different opportunities for university entrance in various countries. However, each institution differs, so you’ll need to check with your prospective school for your options.

In Conclusion

If you plan on relocating to Costa Rica with your school-aged children, finding the right school for them is a top priority. While public schools are available in most areas, private schools offer more extensive educational opportunities, including the option to earn internationally recognized diplomas. When selecting a private school, please research the different types of diplomas available and their accreditation status to ensure your child’s education is of the highest quality. With this guide, we hope we’ve given you helpful information so you can decide on your children’s education in Costa Rica.

-Written by Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap).

[email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the educational options for school-aged children in Costa Rica?

There are several possibilities in the Central Valley, ranging from public schools to private colleges founded in the United States.

What types of diplomas are available in Costa Rica?

There are three types of diplomas available in Costa Rica: The Costa Rican Bachillerato Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and the USA High School Diploma.

What is the National Baccalaureate/Diploma of Costa Rica?

The National Baccalaureate/Diploma of Costa Rica is the Bachillerato de Educación de Diversificada, which is required for Costa Rica schools beyond the 9th grade.

What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma?

The International Baccalaureate Diploma is a program that requires students to complete and test in six IB subjects, write an extended 4000-word essay of independent research guided by a faculty mentor, complete 150 hours of (CAS) creative, action, and service activities, and participate in a critical thinking course called Theory of Knowledge.

Can students apply to The University of Costa Rica after earning the National Baccalaureate/Diploma of Costa Rica?

Yes, students can apply to The University of Costa Rica after earning the National Baccalaureate/Diploma of Costa Rica.

What is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)?

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) is an accreditation association that accredits American schools in Costa Rica that offer the USA High School Diploma.

What is the school calendar year in Costa Rica?

The local calendar runs from mid-February to the end of November, followed by public, Catholic, and certain private European schools. Schools that follow the US curriculum use the US calendar, which runs from the middle of August to the end of June, with a month off for Christmas in December and January.

Are Advanced Placement (AP) courses available in Costa Rica?

Yes, AP courses are available in many subjects, from English to Calculus. 

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