Compare Specialist-level SEN International Schools in Costa rica

📚 Learning Specialist 🧩 Behaviour Basic

Instructs in Spanish, English

Ages 2 - 18 years

Type Co-educational

Centro Docente Miravalle is a bilingual campus in Cartago, Costa Rica serving ages 2 through 18. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside Cambridge English Certification for eleventh-year students and Java programming certification, with English taught by bilingual teachers. The curriculum also emphasizes Project-Based Learning to develop English fluency and critical thinking. The campus spans about 30,000 square meters with 13 modules and around 60 classrooms, plus cafeterias, courtyards, auditoriums and modern laboratories. Facilities include 21st‑century classrooms, computer and science labs, a library, sports spaces and 24‑hour security; all are designed to support accessible learning for preschool, primary and secondary students. Distinctive programs include Music Fever, delivered in English, and international exchanges with London and the United States. The school also offers Olympiad-focused clubs, Model United Nations projects, internships, and intercambios, plus the Cambridge English Certification and Oracle Java certification through its Miravalle programs. For globally minded learners.

Location

Cartago, Costa Rica. 800 meters south of the southeast corner of the Courts of Justice.

Stages

Preschool, Primary, and Secondary education are offered. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, Cambridge Certification, a Java programming certificate, and Music Fever, taught in English by bilingual teachers.

School day structure

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:00am–4:00pm.

Application / enrollment (matrícula) fees
- The school requires payment of an enrollment (matrícula) fee at the time families sign the contract and complete admission steps.

Tuition fees by year group (amounts per term / per year)
- The school does not publish a public, itemised schedule of tuition (monthly/term/annual) amounts for each year group on its public admissions or policy documents. No per-year tuition figures suitable for direct entry into a fee database were found in the school's published admission or policy materials.

Billing schedule and payment terms (general)
- Enrollment (matrícula) payment is required during the registration process as part of finalising the contract. Payment for matrícula is accepted via bank connectivity through authorised banks and via BN Servicios.
- For the optional student transport service, monthly payments are collected from February to November; additionally there is a fixed charge in December of ₡31,425 (IVA included). Transport monthly fees are due within the first 10 days of each month; late payment incurs a penalty of ₡5,000. Sibling discounts apply: 10% for the second sibling, 15% for the third sibling and an extra 5% per sibling from the fourth onward.

Boarding / residential fees
- Centro Docente Miravalle does not operate a boarding/residential programme; no boarding fees are published. The school's program descriptions list Pre‑school, Primary and Secondary offerings and student services but make no reference to on‑campus boarding.

Student transport (detailed fees and terms)
- Transport fees are published per route and per service level (Full / Medium). Examples of the published monthly amounts (IVA included) are: ₡56,000–₡100,500 for full service depending on route, and ₡48,000–₡77,300 for medium service depending on route. The December fixed charge is ₡31,425 (IVA included). Payment timing, sibling discounts and late‑payment penalty are as above. (See route list for specific route prices.)

Programme‑specific additional fees (Bachillerato Internacional / IB)
- Students enrolled in the IB Diploma Programme are subject to an additional programme fee that covers membership, programme registration, official teacher training, materials, Turnitin similarity‑checking, submission and review of official IB exams/works, and printed diplomas/certificates. That additional programme amount is non‑refundable if a family switches the student to the national programme during 10th or 11th year. A past publication for the 2023–2024 period listed a supplementary IB charge of USD 95 per month; more recent policy documents confirm the existence of the non‑refundable additional IB cost but do not publish a single up‑to‑date monthly amount for 2025/26 or 2026.

Other costs or fees (uniforms, meals, after‑school, materials, clubs)
- The school operates a shop and provides student food services (soda), after‑school schedules and co‑curricular activities, but published unit prices for uniforms, meals, after‑school programmes or club fees are not provided in the public documents located. Transport and IB programme extras are the only line‑item prices published in school PDFs found.

Refund information
- The additional fee charged for participation in the IB Diploma Programme is explicitly stated as non‑refundable if the family later moves the student to the national programme during 10th or 11th year. The policy also indicates families are responsible for any other IB‑related charges generated by changes of registration or appeals. No general refund schedule for enrollment, tuition or other services was published in the available admissions/policy documents.

Fee payment options
- Enrollment (matrícula) payments are accepted via bank connectivity through authorised banks and via BN Servicios. Specific accepted payment methods for other fee lines (tuition, transport, shop purchases) are not itemised in published documents; the transport service document specifies contractual arrangements directly with route transport providers and notes monthly payment timing and penalties.

Summary of what is published here and data gaps
- Published, route‑level amounts exist for the student transport service (detailed per route, full and medium service prices, December fixed charge, sibling discounts, due dates and late penalty).
- The school's admission and policy documents confirm an enrollment (matrícula) fee is required at registration and that an additional IB programme fee exists (with non‑refundability for programme changes), but those documents do not publish a current, itemised tuition schedule by year group (monthly/term/annual amounts) suitable for direct entry into a fees database for the 2026/27 academic year. A previously published figure (USD 95 monthly) appears for the IB supplement in the 2023–2024 document, but no updated IB amount for 2025/26 or 2026/27 is published in the policy materials located.

If you need these specifics recorded in your database, include the transport‑line items and the IB programme fee (noting the IB fee is programme‑specific and was listed historically as USD 95/month for 2023–24). For all other fee lines (tuition by year group, uniform or meal prices, general refund rules beyond IB), no published amounts were located in the school's publicly available admissions and policy materials.

Uniform Requirement

Sustainable uniforms are used starting in 2025; uniforms are made from eco-friendly fabric produced from recycled materials. Nine 600 ml PET bottles are recycled to make one shirt, and eighteen bottles to make one pair of pants.

Food Options

On-site cafeterias are available (sodas).

Governance and Ownership

The school is a private educational institution in Cartago, Costa Rica, registered with the Dirección de Centros Privados del Ministerio de Educación Pública de Costa Rica.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Wellbeing Department is composed of professionals in psychopedagogy, psychology, and special education across the school. It provides guidance, support, and monitoring for student diversity and collaborates with teachers to strengthen academic development and competency formation. It also trains teaching staff on topics that strengthen classroom work and monitors situations that require interdisciplinary approaches. Programs in Wellbeing Estudiantil include preschool transitions, incubation of preschool competencies, preventive student workshops, psychoeducational talks, transitions to higher levels, climate-improving strategies, and activities to foster solidarity, belonging, and creativity.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

A Committee of Support oversees students with special educational needs entering the IB Diploma Programme, with involvement from the Wellbeing Department and two teachers. The committee offers guidance to parents on external evaluation reports (psychology, psychiatry, neurology, neurodevelopment, psychopedagogy, medicine, etc.), reviews external evaluations to ensure they meet requirements, and coordinates actions to support the student's learning. The school provides professionals including teachers, a guiding teacher, psychopedagogy and special education specialists, educational psychology, and a specialty coordinator, and maintains confidentiality of information about students with NEE. The policies align with laws and IB guidelines to promote inclusive education and accessibility.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school's Project-Based Learning approach is oriented toward the gradual development of the English language, supporting ongoing language development across the curriculum.

Mental Wellbeing

The Wellbeing Department provides mental health resources and guidance, including tips for caring for the mental health of children. The department operates Monday through Friday from 7:05 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with services to students, teachers, and families available by appointment.

Safeguarding

The school informs students and families about unusual behaviors when needed and maintains the confidentiality of information about students' NEE. The Wellbeing Department leads decisions to improve inclusion and a positive learning environment, coordinating with families and staff to safeguard student wellbeing.

Admissions

Preescolar admissions. 1) Schedule an interview with the family or legal guardian. Contact the Admissions Unit at matricula@colegiomiravalle.com or via WhatsApp at 8450-0555 to arrange the appointment. The interview introduces the family to Miravalle's approach and sets the enrollment process in motion. The appointment is the first step in the admissions process.

2) Interview with the parent or guardian and the student. The interview is conducted with the parent or guardian and the student to discuss background, needs and goals. The admissions team gathers information to determine fit with the program and to explain next steps. The interview helps align expectations for both family and school.

3) Complete the information form for new students. Fill out the information form to initiate enrollment for a new student. The form collects essential details about the student and family for processing. Submission triggers the progression to testing or observation.

4) Take the admission tests and/or the observation of the student. Tests are administered as part of the admissions process; Maternal does not take a test, but an observation is conducted. Results guide the next steps in placement and program fit. Additional evaluation may be requested as needed.

5) Submit the required documents. Provide the documents requested by the school to complete the file. Documentation is used to verify identity, permissions, and eligibility for enrollment. The school will inform you which documents are required.

6) After the admission decision is issued, deliver the original documents. When a decision is communicated, submit the original documents to finalize enrollment. This ensures the student's records are complete for the new academic year. Original documents are required before contract signing.

7) Sign the enrollment contract, by appointment. The enrollment contract is signed by the family with a prior appointment. The contract formalizes enrollment terms and the school's commitments. An appointment helps ensure all details are reviewed before signing.

8) Pay the tuition. The tuition or enrollment fee is paid through the designated banking channels or BN Servicios. Payment finalizes the enrollment and secures the student's place. Proof of payment is typically required to complete the process.

9) Receive an induction briefing according to the convocation date. A school induction talk is provided according to the enrollment period. The briefing introduces families to routines, policies and the upcoming school year.

Primaria (Primary) admissions. 1) Interview with the parent or guardian. An interview is held with the parent/guardian to discuss the student and family context. The school explains its programs and expectations for new students. This interview marks the start of the enrollment process.

2) Admission test for the student (appointment required). The student takes an admission test by appointment. Testing helps determine placement and readiness for the program. The school may request additional information if needed.

3) Submit complete documentation. Provide the full set of documents as indicated by the school. Documentation supports the enrollment file and eligibility verification. You will be informed of the exact documents required.

4) Sign the enrollment contract. The family signs the enrollment contract, with a previa appointment. The contract formalizes enrollment terms and school commitments. A scheduled appointment ensures a thorough review before signing.

5) Pay the tuition. The tuition can be paid through the authorized banking channels or BN Servicios. Payment completes the enrollment and reserves the student's seat. Proof of payment is required to finalize enrollment.

Secundaria (Secondary) admissions. 1) Interview with the parent or guardian. An interview is held with the parent/guardian to review the student's background and goals. The school explains the program and enrollment requirements. This interview initiates the enrollment process.

2) Admission test for the student (previa cita). The student undergoes an admissions test by appointment. The test assesses academic readiness and placement. Additional information may be requested depending on performance.

3) Submit complete documentation. Provide the full set of documents listed by the school. Documentation supports enrollment eligibility and record accuracy. You will be advised which documents are required.

4) Sign the enrollment contract. The enrollment contract is signed by the family, with an appointment. The contract formalizes enrollment terms and expectations. A scheduled appointment ensures all details are reviewed.

5) Pay the tuition. Tuition is paid through the school's approved banking channels or BN Servicios. Payment completes enrollment and secures the student's place. Proof of payment is required to finalize enrollment.

IB Diploma Programme admissions (Program IB Miravalle). 1) Presentation of the Diploma Programme to parents and students through in‑person meetings. The admissions process begins with information sessions about the IB Diploma Programme. These sessions explain requirements, commitments and opportunities for students and families. In‑person meetings help families assess fit and ask questions.

2) Pre-registration of interested candidates. Families and students submit an initial request to be reviewed for Diploma Programme admission. This step initiates the formal review of eligibility and alignment with the IB requirements. It sets the stage for a formal admission review.

3) Video and letter of intent by the student and parental commitment. The student prepares a personal video and a formal letter of intent, while parents submit a commitment letter. These materials demonstrate the student's goals and the family's support for the Diploma Programme. The documents are evaluated as part of the admission review.

4) Student attends a convivio and participates in activities. The student attends an event where skills relevant to the Diploma Programme are assessed. Attendance and performance in this convivio inform the admissions decision. The school looks for evidence of collaboration, communication and critical thinking.

5) Admissions committee verifies documents and academic/disciplinary requirements. The committee reviews the student's documentation and checks academic and behavioral records. A final decision is communicated to the family through the official channels. The school reserves the right of admission for Diploma Programme candidates as appropriate.

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La Paz Community School - Cabo Velas

📚 Learning Specialist 🧩 Behaviour Basic

Instructs in English, Spanish

Ages 1 - 18 years

Pupils 370

Type Co-educational

La Paz Community School is a PreK–12, non-profit, dual-immersion school in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, operating on two campuses: Cabo Velas and Tempisque, plus an Events and Sports Center on the Cabo Velas campus. The school teaches in English and Spanish and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for 11th and 12th grades, with a bilingual PreK–12 education that immerses students in two languages and two cultures. Its experiential learning approach brings hands-on, real-world connections to every subject, from science labs and gardens to anchor projects such as managing a chicken coop, greenhouses, and composting. Facilities include air-conditioned classrooms, libraries, science labs, art and music spaces, a stage, and a semi-Olympic pool and arena for sports and performances. The Extracurricular Program spans sports, arts, recreation and culture, and anchor projects feed opportunities for leadership, service, and community impact across grades. Our teachers collaborate with families to support each student's growth everyday.

Location

La Paz Community School has two campuses in Guanacaste, Costa Rica: Cabo Velas Campus in Brasilito and Tempisque Campus in Palmira, Carrillo. The Cabo Velas Campus is 400 meters east of the entrance to the Mar Vista Project, Brasilito, Cabo Velas, Santa Cruz, Guanacaste 50308. The Tempisque Campus is 300 meters northwest from the Do IT Center Lagar entrance to Papagayo, Comunidad, Palmira, Carrillo, Guanacaste 50502.

Stages

PreK–12: Bajura (Preschool), Miravalles (Kinder–2nd), Arenal (3rd–5th), Tenorio (6th–8th), Chirripó (9th–12th); International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme offered.

Type

PreK–12, dual-immersion, non-profit school with two campuses (Cabo Velas and Tempisque).

Pupil Nationality Mix

796 students from 26 countries

Country affiliation

Costa Rica

Application & Enrollment Fees

- New student registration fee (one-time): USD 1,500.
- Annual enrollment fee (Explore program): USD 510.
- Annual enrollment fee (PK3–12): USD 1,185.
- Non‑resident annual fee (students without Costa Rican residency): USD 3,000.

Tuition fees by year group (2026/2027 academic year) — annual, per‑trimester, and per‑month amounts

- Explore (8:00 am – 1:00 pm): Annual USD 5,688; Trimester USD 1,896; Monthly USD 474.
- Explore (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): Annual USD 7,032; Trimester USD 2,344; Monthly USD 586.
- Pre‑K (8:00 am – 1:00 pm): Annual USD 7,116; Trimester USD 2,372; Monthly USD 593.
- Pre‑K (8:00 am – 3:00 pm): Annual USD 8,384; Trimester USD 2,795; Monthly USD 699.
- Kinder / 1st / 2nd grade: Annual USD 10,241; Trimester USD 3,414; Monthly USD 853.
- Grades 3–5: Annual USD 10,617; Trimester USD 3,539; Monthly USD 885.
- Grades 6–8: Annual USD 11,700; Trimester USD 3,900; Monthly USD 975.
- Grades 9–10: Annual USD 11,700; Trimester USD 3,900; Monthly USD 975.
- Grades 11–12: Annual USD 12,171; Trimester USD 4,057; Monthly USD 1,014.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Payment plan options: Yearly (one full payment at the start of the school year), Trimester (three equal installments), or Monthly (12 equal monthly installments).
- Trimester due dates by campus:
- Cabo Velas: June 30; October 31; February 28.
- Tempisque: July 31; November 30; March 31.
- Monthly schedules by campus:
- Cabo Velas: Monthly payments from June 30 to May 31.
- Tempisque: Monthly payments from July 31 to June 30.
- Late payment policy: A late fee of 2% per month applies if payments are not received within five business days of the due date. The school follows an escalating reminder and fee process for overdue accounts and reserves the right to suspend educational services for unpaid balances.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable; La Paz Community School operates as a day school with on‑campus programs and no residential/boarding option listed.

Other costs and typical additional fees

- Items explicitly not included in tuition: laptop computers and graphing calculators. Families are responsible for those purchases where required.
- Field trips: Field trip transportation is included in tuition except for international excursions; additional trip costs such as entry fees, lodging, food, and other expenses are not included and may be charged per trip. Students may be required to pay separately for certain excursions.
- Lunch program: The school operates a hot‑lunch program (La Cocina de La Paz). Families receive a monthly menu and pay for lunches they choose to purchase; bringing lunch from home is an alternative.
- Uniforms: School‑issued uniform pieces are required for daily wear; all uniform pieces must be school‑issued and families will be charged for replacement uniforms if the school provides one. PE/Movement uniform is required for older grades.
- Miscellaneous charges: Fees may apply for certain field trips, extracurricular activities, lost or damaged items, and other optional services.

Refunds and deposits

- Enrollment payments and key fee payments are non‑refundable: payments of enrollment, non‑resident, new student, and annual/trimester/monthly fees are non‑refundable. The school may retain deposits and fees as specified in the enrollment agreement and handbook. The school may require outstanding balances to be paid even if a student departs.

Fee payment options and banking information

- Accepted payment methods: wire / bank transfer, check deposit, and credit/debit card. The school does not accept cash or in‑office check payments. Electronic invoices and reminders are issued in advance of due dates.
- Bank accounts used for transfers include accounts held in Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, and Banco BAC San José under the account name Asociación Escuela Comunal La Paz (bank account details and SWIFT/IBAN information are provided for bank transfers).

Discounts, financial aid and scholarships (fees‑related)

- Early‑bird discount on the enrollment fee: a discount is applied to the enrollment fee for payments made by early deadlines (early enrollment dates differ by campus). A family‑discount policy applies for larger families (for example, a multi‑child discount structure is specified). The school offers financial aid (up to 50% of tuition) and a scholarship program for greater assistance; enrollment and new student fees must be paid in full even when financial aid is granted.

Notes on payment enforcement

- The school employs a sequence of invoice reminders prior to due dates and applies late fees and collection procedures for overdue accounts. Continued non‑payment may result in an obligatory meeting and possible termination of enrollment if agreed payment plans are not met. Outstanding debt remains the responsibility of the family even after departure.

Uniform Requirement

The La Paz uniform consists of a La Paz uniform shirt with black shorts, skirts, pants, or skorts. Closed-toed shoes are required; grades 3 and above wear a PE uniform that includes a gray La Paz Movement shirt or Ruta La Paz shirt with Movement shorts or black leggings. On trips or excursions, the La Paz uniform may be required, and Movement days require wearing the Movement kit with changes back to the regular uniform after PE unless it is the last class of the day.

Food Options

La Paz operates its own lunch program, La Cocina de La Paz, Monday through Friday with a monthly menu; families can purchase lunches or students may bring lunch. Microwaves are available and students should bring a water bottle and labeled containers; candy, soda, or food deliveries from unauthorized sources are not permitted.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a Board of Directors and operated by the Asociación Escuela Comunal La Paz. Two campuses serve Guanacaste: Cabo Velas and Tempisque. Tuition is approved by the Board for each academic year.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school has a Behavior and Education Support Team (BEST) that provides socio-emotional and academic support with specialists in Special Education, School Counseling, and Educational Psychology. Counseling offers individualized and group support focused on prevention and personal development, using the Positive Behavioral Support Model to tailor behavioral plans. Neurodiversity is addressed, and Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy are available to support diverse learning needs. Mindfulness is practiced regularly in Community Meetings and integrated into lessons to develop attention, emotional management, and empathy, with BEST reinforcing these skills. The Peace Practices guide daily acts of compassion and balance, and Career and College Counseling supports students in exploring interests and planning for higher education.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

BEST provides socio-emotional and academic support with specialists in Special Education, School Counseling, and Educational Psychology. Neurodiversity is addressed with targeted strategies for ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other learning differences. Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy are offered to support daily functioning and communication. Individualized Support Plans are developed for each student, with differentiated instruction and classroom interventions. The program uses a Positive Behavioral Support Model and restorative justice to guide behavior and learning.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school teaches in English and Spanish through a Dual Language Immersion program. The Dual Language Immersion goes beyond mastering two languages to an immersion into two cultures, fostering global citizenship. Students enhance language skills through interdisciplinary planning and theme-based content, bridging learning between English and Spanish and exploring similarities and differences. The core curriculum is based on International Baccalaureate and U.S. and Costa Rican standards. La Paz operates on two campuses in Guanacaste, offering bilingual education across both sites.

Mental Wellbeing

Mindfulness is taught and practiced regularly, helping students stay present and develop self-awareness, attention, sensory awareness, and emotional management. Mindfulness activities include breathing exercises, mindful listening, body scans, journaling, nature observation, and mindful reading, integrated into Community Meetings and lessons. The BEST program reinforces these skills by supporting emotional regulation and reflection on learning challenges. Counseling and socio-emotional supports, including positive disciplinary approaches and restorative practices, further support student wellbeing. Peace Practices promote compassionate, balanced behavior and respectful communication within the school community.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is addressed through a formal Student Family Handbook with defined behavior expectations, safety procedures, and incident response. The school utilizes the BEST team to support student safety and wellbeing, using a Positive Behavioral Support Model and restorative justice for conflict resolution. Visitors sign in at the main office and receive a Visitor Pass, with access restricted if safety concerns arise. The handbook covers accident response, insurance requirements, and field trip protocols, and outlines procedures for communicating concerns to families and for due process in serious cases. Restorative justice is the principal approach to addressing conflicts, supported by clear behavioral boundaries for students and adults.

Admissions

Two campuses: Cabo Velas and Tempisque. Requirements to apply include visiting the school, filling out the application form, immunization record, current passport or birth certificate, parent's ID, an essay or drawing, grades from the current year and previous year, teacher recommendation form, a No debt certificate if the student comes from a Costa Rican private school, and documentation confirming the status of the residency application. A tour can be scheduled via the Schedule a Tour link. The school offers two financial assistance programs to ensure education is accessible to all families: Financial Aid, which covers up to 50% of tuition (Enrollment and new student fees must be paid in full), and the Scholarship Program, for families who require more than 50% tuition assistance (Application period January to March; Start of classes in September).

Scholarships

The La Paz Scholarship Program has provided scholarships to more than 100 students, including 34 graduates, from diverse communities in Guanacaste. This donor-funded program supports scholarship families with reduced fees and specialized resources. Scholarships cover 51% to 95% of school fees based on financial need, with each family contributing according to their financial capacity. Holistic support includes educational materials (computers, calculators, school supplies, and reduced or free lunches and uniforms), transportation, on-site scholarship coordinators, parent and family workshops, specialized services, and extracurricular programs. The majority of scholarship students are welcomed to the La Paz community in lower primary years. The selection process is rigorous and includes interviews and home visits, considering factors such as the family's economic need, family support/involvement, and future family goals. Scholarships are renewed annually based on academic achievement, attendance, behavior, financial need, and fulfillment of cooperative hours.

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Cloud Forest School

📚 Learning Specialist 🧩 Behaviour None

Instructs in English, Spanish

Ages 4 - 12 years

Fees CRC 6,250 - 10,000

Type Co-educational

Cloud Forest School is an independent bilingual K–6 program set on 106 acres of cloud forest near Monteverde, Costa Rica. The bespoke curriculum blends English and Spanish instruction with a strong emphasis on environmental education embedded across all subjects. Since 2003, the school has piloted six-week units that guide learning decisions and connect academics to real-world ecological issues, helping students graduate bilingual and environmentally conscious. Classrooms open onto the forest, with outdoor, play-based kindergarten and Prepa programs. Learning extends beyond the campus into the forest and local community, including field trips, volunteer opportunities, and internships. The mission is to cultivate well-rounded individuals who can meet today's challenges with curiosity, compassion, and practical problem-solving. The campus features an organic garden, a native tree nursery, a recycling center, a reforestation program, and an extensive trail system that supports daily land stewardship and experiential learning. The school welcomes diverse learners and families worldwide.

Location

Santa Elena, Costa Rica

Stages

Kindergarten through 6th grade (K-6)

Type

bilingual K-6 school

Pupil Nationality Mix

Approximately 85% local Costa Rican students and 15% international students

Additional learning support

Spanish as a second language program

Country affiliation

Independent

Application / Registration Fees
- A registration (pre‑matrícula) requirement exists and a specific registration fee for families living outside Monteverde has been listed as USD 200.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term where available)
- Pre‑Kindergarten / Kindergarten: Annual tuition reported at approximately USD 6,250 per year.
- Preparatory year: Annual tuition reported at approximately USD 7,000 per year.
- Grades 1–6: Annual tuition reported at approximately USD 10,000 per year.
- Range reported for the school overall (various sources) is roughly USD 6,450–USD 10,200 per year depending on program and grade.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- The school operates on the Costa Rica academic calendar (August–May) with stated deadlines for pre‑registration/payments in the academic calendar; families are required to meet pre‑registration payment deadlines. Exact term-by-term billing dates and instalment schedules are managed through the school's enrollment process and family contracts.

Boarding fees
- No boarding program or boarding fees are published for the school; available information describes it as a day school.

Other costs and fees
- Summer camp: Program cost was listed as USD 500 per week for camp offerings (includes program, some transportation, one tour per week, t‑shirt, snack and lunch under the camp terms).
- Uniforms: The school has been described as not requiring uniforms, so uniform costs are not listed as a standard tuition item. Families should still expect incidental costs such as field trips, materials, school photos, and optional activities.
- Financial aid / scholarships: The school provides partial scholarships and reduced tuition to a substantial portion of local students; additional fees (application for scholarships) and documentation requirements exist for scholarship consideration.

Refund information
- No publicly posted, detailed refund policy for tuition or deposits was found in the available documents. Refunds, withdrawal penalties, and prorating of tuition are handled according to family contracts and the school's administrative policies.

Fee payment options
- Accepted payment methods include domestic bank transfers (accounts in Costa Rica in colones and in US dollars), international wire transfers (SWIFT), PayPal, checks payable to the school's association or to the Cloud Forest School Foundation (for U.S. payments), and credit card payments via a credit card authorization form. Contact emails for payments and finance queries are finanzas@cloudforestschool.org and recepcion@cloudforestschool.org. Specific bank account details and wiring instructions are provided in the school's bank information document.

Notes on published detail availability
- The school publishes payment instructions, pre‑registration forms, credit card authorization, and the academic calendar. Precise, itemized per‑term tuition amounts, explicit term instalment schedules, detailed refund policy text, and a full current fee table by grade for the 2026/27 academic year are not published in a single publicly accessible fee schedule in the materials located. The figures above are drawn from available enrollment documents and independently published summaries; families should expect to confirm exact current amounts and instalment options directly with the school's finance office during enrollment.

Uniform Requirement

Yes, a t-shirt with the Cloud Forest School logo is worn.

Food Options

No dining room service is provided.

Governance and Ownership

Independent, non-profit school located on 106 acres of cloud forest in Monteverde, Costa Rica. The school has a student body that is 91% local Costa Rican students and 9% international students, and 40% of students receive scholarships.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school addresses the intellectual, emotional and physical needs of each child.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has a Special Education teacher on staff who supports students with special education needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Spanish as a Second Language Teacher provides English as a second language support.

Mental Wellbeing

Kindergarten focuses on developing language and social emotional skills.

Safeguarding

A security guard is on the Cloud Forest School campus.

Admissions

1) The school is bilingual and located on 106 acres of cloud forest in Monteverde, Costa Rica. The admissions process begins with an initial interest interview with the director of external and international relations to discuss the student's goals, language needs and fit with the program. This interview helps determine whether further steps are needed and can guide next steps.
2) Applicants complete the enrollment form to apply, and the school will schedule a virtual meeting to answer questions if desired. The international-student pathway notes that the Spanish as a second language program is available for those who need language support.
3) Families commit to at least one full semester to participate fully; the minimum attendance is one semester, as shorter visits are disruptive to the regular student body.
4) The school operates on a differentiated calendar from August to May, with 180 school days; bilingual instruction in English and Spanish is part of the program and environmental education is integrated across subjects.

Scholarships

The school offers scholarships; 40% of students receive a scholarship. To apply for a scholarship you must demonstrate that your family's income is not sufficient to pay the full monthly tuition. A formal scholarship application is available for the 2025-2026 academic year. Scholarships are for the school program itself, not for higher education progression.

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Costa Rica Christian School

📚 Learning Specialist 🧩 Behaviour None

Instructs in English, Spanish, Portuguese

Ages 1 - null years

Pupils 556

Type Co-educational

Costa Rica Christian School (CRCS) in San Antonio de Coronado offers Preschool through High School with a certified tri-lingual program in English, Portuguese and Spanish. Preschool features 100% English immersion, centers-based learning, a psychomotor program, technology integration, and individualized attention, with after-school care until 6:00 pm. Elementary maintains English-language instruction, student-centered classes, ebooks and digital platforms, and supports for academic, emotional and Christian values, with Portuguese as a third language. Lower and Upper Elementary include ABeka reading and phonics; robotics via LEGO; and continued English immersion, with Portuguese taught as a third language. High School emphasizes advanced English and Portuguese, Cambridge English Certification, inquiry-based science and project-based learning, robotics, and the ABeka and Bob Jones Press curricula. The 4.5-hectare campus features a large athletic complex and modern classrooms with strong ICT integration; technology has been in classrooms since 2012. CRCS is accredited by ACSI, the Costa Rican Ministry of Education (MEP), and Cognia (as of Aug 2025) and partners with national and international universities. Extracurriculars include sports, arts and music, CRCS Outreach, and programs such as CRCS Explore and Peacemaker.

Location

San Antonio de Coronado, 800 meters east of the old Don Pancho Mall, in front of the McDonald's restaurant.

Stages

Preschool; Elementary; High School

Type

Private Christian school

Religious affiliation

Christian

School day structure

Preschool programs run 7:30 am–12:30 pm (Pre-maternal, Maternal, Pre-kinder, Kinder). Pre-maternal, Maternal, Pre-kinder and Kinder have 7:30 am–12:30 pm schedules. PREPARATORY (Preparatory) runs 7:30 am–3:00 pm Monday–Thursday, with Friday 12:30 pm. SECONDARY hours are 7:20 am–3:00 pm Monday–Thursday and 7:20 am–2:20 pm on Fridays.

Application fees

- No fixed public amount is published for an application or enrollment (matrícula) fee. Families are instructed to consult the school for the current application/registration amount and deadlines.

Tuition fees by school year / year group

- The school does not publish a public table of tuition (colegiatura) amounts by year group or grade. Tuition amounts vary by level; families must request the current tuition schedule for Preschool (Pre-maternal, Maternal, Pre-Kinder, Kinder, Preparatoria), Elementary (Lower and Upper Elementary), and Secondary.

Tuition detail required for database (per term / per year group)

- Specific numeric amounts per term or per academic year for each grade are not available on the school's publicly accessible admissions materials. The school requires direct inquiry to obtain full breakdowns (per term, monthly, or annual billing) for each grade.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- No publicly posted billing schedule (for example: monthly, termly, or annual payment options), late‑payment penalties, or discount structure is available. Families must obtain the school's current billing schedule and payment terms directly from admissions or finance.

Boarding fees

- The school's published program descriptions and level pages do not indicate a boarding/boarding-house program; no boarding fees are listed. If boarding is required or available, the school will provide separate details and fees on request.

Other costs and fees (uniforms, materials, transport, extracurriculars, meals, excursions, insurance, registration of siblings, etc.)

- No consolidated public schedule of ancillary fees (uniforms, textbooks/materials, transport, meals, extracurricular activities, special program fees, supplies, or mandatory family fees) is published. The school's admissions information asks families to consult for requirements and costs, which implies some additional fees may apply and are provided on the school's fee schedule.

Refund information

- No publicly posted refund policy for enrollment, tuition, or ancillary fees is available. Refund terms (if any) for withdrawal, dismissal, or program cancellation must be requested from the school's finance or admissions office.

Fee payment options (credit card, bank transfer, cash, checks, electronic payment)

- The school's public pages do not list accepted payment methods or banking details. Payment methods and instructions (credit card, bank transfer, local banking, or other options) are provided directly by the school at registration or on the official fee schedule.

How to obtain the full, current fee schedule

- Phone: 2229 - 6800. Email: info@crcs.cr. Families should contact the school's admissions or finance office to request the current and complete fee schedule for the 2026/27 academic year (or the most recent academic year available).

Summary note about publicly available information

- The school's public admissions and programme pages present level descriptions and explicitly ask families to consult the school for requirements and costs; no numeric fee schedule (application fee, tuition by grade, billing schedule, ancillary fees, refund rules, or payment-method details) is published on those pages. The school provides fee amounts and payment terms directly to families on request.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school's educational philosophy is inspired by Reconstructionism, enabling students to be active participants who develop skills to analyze and solve problems and apply knowledge from daily life. Christian values and principles are integrated into teaching to develop a Christian worldview and to understand the world through faith. The school fosters a community that emphasizes compassion, love, responsibility, and service to others, with socialization within the community to drive positive change. Students master their mother tongue and other languages to communicate in a variety of contexts and through diverse media. ICT is used as a tool to strengthen learning across different environments.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has a psychoeducational team that provides support for students with diverse learning needs. Teachers hold international certifications. Staff receive ongoing professional development. The school reports a student‑to‑teacher ratio of 20:1. The program emphasizes Christian values as part of the educational approach.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school offers certified trilingual education in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. English immersion is provided 100% in the Preschool program. Portuguese is taught as a third language. Spanish is taught as part of the trilingual program.

Mental Wellbeing

The school has a qualified psychoeducational team that provides mental health and emotional support. There is ongoing communication and support for families throughout the process. Programs such as CRCS Outreach and Peacemakers, along with music and physical education, support holistic wellbeing.

Safeguarding

The school offers a Sexuality and Prevention of Child Abuse program as part of safeguarding. This program is accompanied by ongoing family engagement and support.

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