Study Abroad in Costa Rica
Approximate Dates:
May 20-June 3, 2027
2027 application will open around June 15, 2026. It is encouraged to submit a full application including a program faculty recommendation as soon as possible. For reference the 2026 program was full by September 15, 2026.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and this program usually fills before the final deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I explore?
Travel to beautiful Costa Rica to explore health care and intercultural learning. Costa Rica is identified as a “blue zone” meaning that Costa Ricans, on average, live longer lives due to their lifestyle and environment.
Experiences and learning opportunities include:
- Explore Jaco, Montverde, Tamarindo, Arenol, and the Cloud Forest
- Take a local cooking class, Spanish language classes, surfing and adapted surfing lessons
- See national parks, beaches, coral reefs, and waterfalls
- Learn about Costa Rican Healthcare System with experiential learning in Nursing Home Services
- Practice and learn about wellness and self-care principles
- and much more!
What will I learn?
Students will learn about holistic wellness, understand how to prevent and manage chronic disease through lifestyle modification, and compare perspectives on health problems and health services in Central America. This program is designed for students that have a passion for health vocations and want to know more about a holistic approach to health and well-being. This program will provide planned opportunities for physical activity and address the importance of self-care practices for the health/wellness practitioner.
What's included in the cost?
$3,800 - $4,500 is the estimated program cost, and includes:
- round-trip airfare
- lodging
- international health coverage
- in-country transportation, such as train, subway, or bus
- some meals
Costs do not include: tuition (optional), some meals, personal spending money, and passport fees.
When are the payment deadlines?
- $500 nonrefundable deposit due within 2 weeks of acceptance.
- ∼ $500-1,000 monthly spaced out to make study abroad affordable
- ∼ TBD final payment based on any grants received
Payments are made through a Square invoice sent via email.
Payments do not include: tuition (optional), some meals, personal spending money, and passport fees.
The refund policy is explained on the study abroad application since payments are nonrefundable except for extremely extenuating circumstances.
What are my options for paying for study abroad?
Over 90% of NWTC students who study abroad receive a scholarship or grant—and you could be one of them! From grants and scholarships to financial aid and flexible payment plans, there are many ways to fund your experience.
Explore your options and start planning! How to Finance Your Study Abroad.
What are the credit opportunities?
Formal program credit opportunities are available for Wellness and Health Promotion Students and Nursing Program Students. Nursing credits vary on point in the program. All other NWTC program students should ask their individual academic program leaders if credit is available for study abroad.
All credit opportunities are optional.
Contact:
- Email:
- abby.helnore@nwtc.edu
- Phone:
- 920-498-5514
- Email:
- sarah.golden@nwtc.edu
- Phone:
- 920-491-2670
- Email:
- megan.grant@nwtc.edu
- Phone:
- 920-498-7186