Semester Study in San Jose FAQ
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Click here for General FAQs that pertain to ALL Adelante Abroad Programs. Things such as eligibility, airfare, academic credit, insurance, payment questions which are the same for all programs.
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Is airfare included?
No – You are responsible for your own airfare; however, we do provide you with in-country airport pickup and delivery to your housing. We recommend www.studentuniverse.com or www.travelocity.com.
Is lodging included?
Yes – You will have your own room with a Costa Rican family. The homestay option provides you with true Spanish immersion and includes laundry services and two meals per day. All houses are fully furnished, with bedding, fully equipped kitchens, washing machine, sheets, towels, pots, pans, Wi-Fi etc.
Is there an Adelante Director in Costa Rica?
Yes – Alejandra Barahona, our Director Abroad, works with Diana Montes Loria and Pamela Badilla to ensure that you have an educational and successful (hopefully, unforgettable!) experience in Costa Rica. This team will coordinate with Adelante HQ all aspects of your program abroad, and you be will given their contact information to reach them at anytime. You will meet them the first Monday in-country, at the Orientation session. Alejandra has ample experience in the education abroad industry and looks forward to welcoming you to Costa Rica.
Will I receive transcripts at the end of my Adelante Semester or Summer Study Abroad Program?
Yes – Transcripts from our internationally accredited participating university abroad are included in the program price. Upon successful completion of your Adelante Semester or Summer Study Abroad program, official, fully transferable and sealed transcripts will be issued, in your name, to the Adelante HQ offices in California. We will then contact you and request the exact address where you would like these to be mailed.
Can I receive academic credit for participating in this study program?
Yes – Make an appointment with your home institution study abroad advisor to go over our course list and our course choices. Make sure that the courses you want to take are approved in this meeting. Adelante can provide syllabi as needed to assist with this process. Then, using the included, fully transferable Transcripts (see question above) you will receive at the end of the semester, candidates can choose to receive credit or not, for participating in an Adelante Abroad Semester or Study Abroad program.
Do I have to be enrolled in a college or university to participate?
Not at all – This program is open to students, and it is also open to recent graduates. It is also open to people who simply want to live in Costa Rica and rapdily learn the language and culture of this fascinating country.
Are there any extracurricular activities or trips planned?
Yes – A number of excursions are included in your program fee, partly because while San Jose is a historic old capital city, it’s not a place you want to spend every weekend in. Join us to explore the Caribbean coast (Puerto Viejo and Limon), run around hots springs near the Arenal Volcano, take a Canopy Tour, visit waterfalls, coffee plantations and even butterfly gardens – its that kind of country.
How much should I budget for living expenses per month, above and beyond what is included in the program fee?
Approximately $100 USD per week, and this covers basic normal expenses like snacks, bus money, some going out at night and one or two nearby excursions a month. The price goes up when you start going out at night more and when you begin to travel further abroad, which we actually do encourage – don’t go into huge debt, but when will you be able to zip line over an ancient jungle again?
Is a student Visa required?
No – Student visas are only required for programs longer than 3 months in duration. If this applies to you, namely if you will be doing two semesters back to back with us, contact your local Costa Rican Consulate or Embassy now to find out the specific requirements. It will sound more complicated than it is — just give yourself enough time to apply and get the documentation together. If you are serious about studying abroad, you should begin that process now, as many times the only way to get in touch with your embassy / consulate is during the hours of 9 – 1. Once you have applied for the Adelante program, been accepted and paid your Tuition, we will provide an Acceptance Letter (written in Spanish and addressed to your Consulate) that will enable you to obtain the Student Visa. Click here for more information on visas.
When is payment for the program due?
Payment in full is due no later than 45 days prior to your desired start date in the program. Invoices are sent via email about 7-10 days before payment is due.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Any cancellations must be received in writing by mail or email. Phone cancellations are not accepted. If you cancel your participation in the program 45 days prior to your start date or earlier, you will receive a full refund of the program fee. If you cancel 30 – 45 days prior to your start date, you are responsible for 50% of the program fee. If you cancel 0 – 30 days prior to your start date, you are responsible for 100% of the program fee. Also, if you cancel at any time following your arrival in Costa Rica, there will be no refund. The $150 application fee is non-refundable.
Can I hear from past or existing Adelante candidates about their program experiences?
Yes – Please take a look at the multiple third-party review sites where we enjoy excellent ratings: www.gooverseas.com, www.goabroad.com or www.abroad101.com. You can also interact with candidates on our Facebook page, the “Groups” area is divided up by program city / country.
My friend and I would like to do the program together. Can we live in the same housing?
Yes – Usually we can accommodate a request for candidates to live together. It will be dependent on availability, so the sooner your completed application packets are received, the better chance you have of being able to live together.
Do I have to have insurance?
Yes – It is strongly recommended that you have basic insurance coverage. You m ay be asked for proof of medical and accident insurance by the University. (usually a copy of your insurance card showing dates and coverage is valid). You can use the insurance company you or your parents already have, or you can purchase coverage just for our program. In the past, we have referred people to Arizona-based ASA, Inc. – they can customize a plan for you based on details you provide. You can call them at 888-272-8288. Cost should be no more than around $60 per month.
Are only Americans admitted to this program?
No – Our only requirement is that you speak English, to be able to communicate with both Adelante Headquarters and our in-country staff who are required to speak both their native language and English. We have placed candidates from all over the world, including Britain, Japan, Australia, India, Canada, Indomesia and more. Please check any visa requirements for your nationality.
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