UCF Abroad
Gain global experience with UCF in Costa Rica
Join us each summer in Costa Rica! Students will experience living and learning abroad, gain multicultural experience, and earn credit toward their degree with other UCF students.
Go beyond the classroom.
The University of Central Florida
Costa Rica
Students from all majors are invited to go beyond the classroom and develop abilities that will help them become more successful in a globalized community. UCF has partnered with API to offer students a life-changing experiential learning opportunity.
Take summer classes in Costa Rica with UCF faculty!
Why San José, Costa Rica?
- The capital city and its political and economic center
- The famous “Pura Vida” (Pure Life) Costa Rican lifestyle
- Close proximity to beaches, mountains and waterfalls
- Abundant parks, including La Sabana Park, the country’s largest urban green space
- San José and its province are among the most diverse in the entire country
- The magnificent and world-renowned National Theater
2025 Course Options
Unique Opportunities Abroad
Join other UCF students in Costa Rica this summer for an educational experience of a lifetime!
Important Program Dates
- Session A: May 31 – June 21, 2025
- Session B: June 28 – July 19, 2025
- sApplication deadline: February 15, 2025
- Commitment deadline: February 22, 2025
Session A
- History and Culture of Wine (HFT3868)
- History of Motion Pictures (FIL 2030)
- International Project-Based Internships (IDS 4947 or IDS 5947)
- Personal Fitness and Wellness (PEM 2103)
Session B
- Environmental Engineering (ENV 3001)
- Fundamentals of Interactive Design (DIG2500)
- Fundamentals of Nutrition (HUN 2201)
- Social Media Management in the Hospitality Industry (HFT 3505)
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View class descriptions & apply here!
Use the tabs in the UCF Abroad page to view class descriptions.
Pricing
Pricing is based on participation, so if you are interested, tell your friends to join you!
Estimated price: $3,810 – $4,000
What's Included
- Housing
- Airport reception
- Resident Directors
- On-site orientation
- Academic excursions & cultural activities
- … and more!
Please note: Students may participate in both Sessions A and B, and may choose to add a semester program either before or after these summer sessions if they wish.
Scholarships
Students may apply for need-based scholarships through UCF or through API by filling out this form.
Interested in
A summer abroad in Barcelona?
The UCF Barcelona Center enables students to experience learning abroad while earning credit toward their degree.
Interested in
Semester Programming?
UCF Students can add a semester program before or after their own Costa Rica Center experience.
Start the conversation
Fill out the form below to learn more, or schedule an appointment with an advisor.
To schedule an advising appointment:
Why API
API offers best-in-class programming, with student well-being a high priority.
Our mission is to create better global citizens through international experiential learning. API programs are developed to be transformative, career-boosting experiences that include:
- Community involvement through optional volunteer programs with API Gives Back
- Cultural awareness through relevant coursework and time spent in multicultural student groups
- High-touch student support throughout the program
About API
Academic Programs International (API) was founded in 1997 and is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable experiential learning programs. Their extensive pre-departure preparation, coupled with strong support services on-site, facilitates academic, cultural and linguistic learning. Within the supportive environment of the API programs, API participants are encouraged to explore their host communities and become increasingly independent and confident in their own abilities. They strive to make international educational experiences accessible to as many participants as possible, and, as such, works to provide multiple program components at a low program cost.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
API is committed to providing enriching international experiences to its participants. We believe in the importance of promoting acceptance, dignity, and respect among people of all backgrounds. No matter who you are or where you come from, API will support you during your journey abroad.