All students have the opportunity to live with a Costa Rican family. All families are carefully selected by the Institute. In addition to receiving a private room, breakfast, dinner and laundry service, students experience the warmth and the friendship of home. Living with a family provides complete immersion, allows you to practice what you've learned, and gives you a firsthand look at a different culture. However, students have the opportunity to do more than just study.
Organized activities are part of the program every afternoon each weekday.
The activities vary from week to week to keep the program lively. An optional Excursion Package is offered as a way to complement the Spanish learning process and give you a chance to explore Costa Rica and the areas surrounding Alajuela. Obtain approval from the study abroad office or language department at their college prior to starting the program. USM is a fully-accredited, comprehensive state university. Students may register for this credit prior to arrival at the school or upon satisfactory completion of their studies.