Costa Rica's Education: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
In recent years, Costa Rica has been witnessing a change. One where people who visit once or twice enjoy the experience so much that they start to look for more permanent reasons to stay. This goes beyond your typical family-friendly vacation: the relocation trend to Costa Rica is real.
And with so many families relocating here from abroad, the private school system has seen substantial growth. Originally thought as a single article covering private bilingual schools in Costa Rica, we’ve decided to split it in two to cover a wider range of options. In this one, we discuss the private schools of San José and the greater Central Valley area. Another is focused on beach communities.
Most of the schools in San José and the rest of the Central Valley were established during the second part of the 20th century, a few decades ago. They have developed their reputation over this time and managed to maintain a curriculum that supports both tradition and innovation.
Compared to public schools, private schools typically offer a higher quality education, a culturally diverse environment, and internationally recognized diplomas. This article examines the distinct features of each school as well as the strengths and challenges of the top 10 private bilingual schools in Costa Rica. Our insights also include findings from an internal survey conducted with past students and parents within our organization. This survey offers a comparative perspective on the schools, adding depth to our exploration.
We're also including a wider list of schools in the area that have been established in the past two decades. Some of them were formed within the last five years, and have very recent accreditations. They are worth the mention as they are gaining popularity among the expat communities.
In the Central Valley, the top 10 notable institutions include:
- Country Day School
- Berkeley Academy
- Pan-American School
- Blue Valley School
- The British School of Costa Rica
- Lincoln School
- The European School
- Mount View School
- International St. Jude School
- Colegio Humboldt-Schule
Other schools worth exploring are:
- Light House International
- United World College
- International Christian School
- Golden Valley School
- True North
- Marian Baker School
- International School SEK Costa Rica
- GSD International School
- Tree of Life International School
American Curriculum Schools in Costa Rica
If you want your kid to have an American-based curriculum, these are your best bets.
Country Day School
Website: https://www.nordangliaeducation.com/cds-costa-rica
Location: San Rafael, Alajuela
Class Size: 22:1
Curriculum/Focus: Country Day School (CDS) offers a comprehensive curriculum aligned with U.S.A. educational standards. In addition to this, the school offers the Costa Rican Baccalaureate program in Grade 12, preparing students for university studies in Costa Rica. Students can choose from over 20 AP courses, the largest offering in Costa Rica. The school prides itself on its inclusive and diverse community, home to students from over 45 nationalities. As a member of the Nord Anglia Education network, CDS students enjoy unique opportunities to collaborate with peers across Nord Anglia schools globally.
Accreditation: CDS is dual-accredited, enabling students to graduate with both a US High School Diploma and a Costa Rican Diploma.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “Lots of international students.”
- “Great program in English. AP classes offered.”
- “The most American-looking of the schools. Great facilities.”
- “For parents who want their children to learn Spanish, CDS falls short. Many short-term expats send kids here who have no long-term desire or need to learn Spanish.”
Average Ratings for Country Day School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.2 |
| Class Size | 4.6 |
| Facilities | 4.6 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.6 |
| Diversity | 4.5 |
| Cost | 3.1 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.4 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.5 |
| Overall Value | 4.4 |
Berkeley Academy
Website: https://www.berkeleycr.com/
Location: Santa Ana, San José
Class Size: 16:1
Curriculum/Focus: Since its inception in 2013, Berkeley Academy has established itself as a highly selective and prestigious institution, known for its rigorous academic standards. A key component of its curriculum is a strong emphasis on community service, which is integral to the graduation requirements.
Accreditation: Berkeley Academy holds accreditation from Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Education. In addition to offering a US High School Diploma, the academy provides Advanced Placement (AP) classes, enabling students to engage in college-level studies and earn college credit while in high school.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “I love the school. It's small and they give good attention to the students and their families.”
- “Excellent in helping guide students to top flight schools but not the fanciest facilities.”
Average Ratings for Berkeley Academy
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.2 |
| Class Size | 4.6 |
| Facilities | 3.2 |
| Extra Curriculars | 3.4 |
| Diversity | 4.0 |
| Cost | 4.2 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.0 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.5 |
| Overall Value | 4.0 |
Pan-American School
Website: https://panam.ed.cr/
Location: San Antonio de Belén, Heredia
Class Size: 17:1
Curriculum/Focus: The Pan-American School offers an American-based curriculum and fosters a harmonious, bilingual English-Spanish environment with the goal of cultivating “responsible global citizens”. The curriculum is distinctive for its emphasis on skill enhancement, support for social and emotional development, and a broad spectrum of arts, design, and physical education initiatives. Additionally, the school is committed to instilling values of service and global sustainability in its students.
Accreditation: The Pan-American School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on International Education (NEASC-CIE). It also offers the IB Continuum Programme. Students can graduate with three diplomas: IB Diploma Programme, US High School Diploma and the Costa Rica Ministry of Education National Diploma.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “Great school, great facilities, good English.”
Average Ratings for the Pan-American School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.4 |
| Class Size | 4.6 |
| Facilities | 4.7 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.2 |
| Diversity | 4.1 |
| Cost | 4.0 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.5 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.4 |
| Overall Value | 4.3 |
Blue Valley School
Website: https://www.bluevalley.ed.cr/en
Location: Guachipelín, Escazú, San José
Class Size: 22:1
Curriculum/Focus: Blue Valley School, a private bilingual institution in Escazú, Costa Rica, offers an American-style education with a strong focus on bilingualism and holistic development. The school adopts a comprehensive educational approach, nurturing the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth of its students. A key component of this approach is the Pastoral Care Department, which oversees a weekly class led by a counselor. These sessions are dedicated to fostering core values such as respect, tolerance, responsibility, and more.
Accreditation: At Blue Valley School, students can earn an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, a US High School Diploma, and a Costa Rican Diploma. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the Ministerio de Educación Pública de Costa Rica (MEP), and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
Quotes from our Survey:
- “Great location, smaller school.”
- “Strong focus on math and science. One of the more expensive private schools.”
Average Ratings for Blue Valley School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.4 |
| Class Size | 4.6 |
| Facilities | 4.7 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.2 |
| Diversity | 4.1 |
| Cost | 4.0 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.5 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.4 |
| Overall Value | 4.3 |
British Curriculum Schools in Costa Rica
If you prefer a British-focused program, our findings reveal this is the best choice.
The British School of Costa Rica
Website: https://thebritishschoolofcostarica.com/
Location: Pavas
Class Size: 15:1
Curriculum/Focus: The British School follows a British curriculum, incorporating elements from the National Curriculum of England and Wales. As a bilingual institution, it primarily conducts classes in English, complementing these with Spanish (or French) instruction. The school's student body is diverse, encompassing both expatriate families and local students. In its upper grades, the school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. This is the only school in Costa Rica offering the British National Curriculum, the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which meets the requirements of both the U.K. and the Dutch National Curricula.
Accreditation: The British School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education, while being a member of the International Baccalaureate Organization. In Years 9 and 10, students have the opportunity to undertake the IGCSE examinations, offered by the University of Cambridge, England. Additionally, the school offers the Costa Rican national qualifications (Bachillerato Nacional).
Quotes from our Survey:
“Follows UK curriculum. Not intended for students contemplating attending university in the US.”
Average Ratings for the British School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.6 |
| Class Size | 4.4 |
| Facilities | 3.3 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.0 |
| Diversity | 3.9 |
| Cost | 3.9 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.6 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.7 |
| Overall Value | 4.1 |
International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools in Costa Rica
These are the top schools that offer an IB.
Lincoln School
Website: https://www.lincoln.ed.cr/en/
Location: Barrio El Socorro, Santo Domingo, Heredia
Class Size: 10:1
Curriculum/Focus: The Lincoln School is a bilingual institution where students graduate with an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. Engaging in service-learning projects, these students align their efforts with the IB's Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) program and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Notably, the school offers a unique entrepreneurship program in collaboration with The Institute for Social Innovation (formerly the Lewis Institute) at Babson College, a globally recognized leader in this educational methodology. Each year, high school students are involved in at least one service project that addresses specific UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Accreditation: The Lincoln School holds accreditation from both Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Education and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Additionally, the Lincoln School also offers a US High School Diploma, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive educational experience for its students.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “(Lincoln is the) most prestigious private school among Ticos. Located on the north east side of San Jose. For those living on the west side of San Jose (Escazu, Santa Ana, Alajuela), the commute is long.”
- “Great academics, big classes, great English.”
- “Mostly Costa Ricans and a little bit more closed off to international students in social circles, but good academic level.”
Average Ratings for the Lincoln School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.4 |
| Class Size | 4.4 |
| Facilities | 4.8 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.6 |
| Diversity | 4.0 |
| Cost | 4.0 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.4 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.5 |
| Overall Value | 4.3 |
The European School
Website: https://www.europeanschool.com/
Location: San Pablo, Heredia
Class Size: 20:1
Curriculum/Focus: The European School places a strong emphasis on the Liberal Arts and Humanities, particularly valuing art and music, alongside maintaining a standard of academic excellence. The curriculum prepares students for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma program.
Accreditation: The European School is accredited by both Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Education and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), ensuring a recognized and respected educational framework.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “Lots of cool concepts and classes—volunteer work, organic food, etc.”
Average Ratings for the European School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.0 |
| Class Size | 5.0 |
| Facilities | 5.0 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.0 |
| Diversity | 5.0 |
| Cost | 4.0 |
| Teacher Quality | 5.0 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 5.0 |
| Overall Value | 5.0 |
Note: The opinions here expressed are from only one individual, the only person who had experience with the school.
Mount View School
Website: https://www.mountviewcr.com/
Location: Guachipelín, Escazú
Class Size: N/A
Curriculum/Focus: Mount View School is a bilingual institution with a Christian focus, serving students for over twenty years. The school offers an array of language options, including Portuguese, French, and Mandarin, available to students up until high school.
Accreditation: Mount View is accredited by Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Education. Starting in 2024, the school will also offer an optional International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, further expanding its educational offerings.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “Small classroom sizes (from 12 to 15 students), family atmosphere, they have a partnership with business kids and business teens (teaching entrepreneurial skills), constant evaluation, great teachers, they offer free after school student support on some of the main subjects, they teach home skills as part of the student's career.”
- “The level of English taught is not as good as in other bi-lingual schools. For middle-class families, it's an affordable option, and a good education with great values taught.”
Average Ratings for Mount View School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.0 |
| Class Size | 4.0 |
| Facilities | 3.3 |
| Extra Curriculars | 3.3 |
| Diversity | 4.0 |
| Cost | 4.0 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.0 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.0 |
| Overall Value | 4.0 |
International St. Jude School
Website: https://www.stjude.ed.cr/en/
Location: Santa Ana, San José
Class Size: 18:1
Curriculum/Focus: As a UNESCO-associated school, St. Jude School prioritizes developing students who respect individual, religious, and cultural differences while fostering national and personal pride. A member of the International Schools Partnership (ISP), St. Jude has been in operation for 50 years, upholding Christian ideals alongside high educational standards.
Accreditation: St. Jude School is accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) and Costa Rica's Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), reflecting its commitment to providing a globally recognized and locally relevant education.
Quotes from our Survey: N/A
Average Ratings for St. Jude School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.3 |
| Class Size | 4.7 |
| Facilities | 5.0 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.8 |
| Diversity | 4.3 |
| Cost | 4.0 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.7 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 5.0 |
| Overall Value | 4.7 |
Other Schools Offering the IB Diploma
Additionally, the following schools, listed under other curricular focuses, also offer the IB diploma:
- The British School (listed under British Curriculum School in Costa Rica)
- Blue Valley (listed under American Curriculum Schools in Costa Rica)
- Pan-American (listed under American Curriculum Schools in Costa Rica)
German Curriculum School in Costa Rica
This is the main school in San José offering a German-style curriculum.
Colegio Humboldt-Schule
Website: https://www.humboldt.ed.cr/
Location: Pavas, San José
Class Size: 20:1
Curriculum/Focus: The Humboldt School in Costa Rica is an international school known for its German-language education and strong emphasis on bilingualism. Rooted in the German educational system, the school's curriculum is focused on the German language and culture. It prepares students for the German Abitur, a qualification for university entrance. Students who attend Humboldt are often tri-lingual with English beginning in Year 5. The school actively encourages participation in cultural events, exchanges, and activities that connect students to German-speaking countries.
Accreditation: Accredited by Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Education, the Humboldt School enables students to obtain both the Costa Rican Bachillerato and the German Abitur.
Quotes from our Survey:
- “One of the best options no doubt.”
- “No English until 5th grade.”
- “German language is mandatory.”
Average Ratings for Humboldt School
| Category | Rating |
| Academic Rigor | 4.8 |
| Class Size | 4.7 |
| Facilities | 4.8 |
| Extra Curriculars | 4.8 |
| Diversity | 4.3 |
| Cost | 3.7 |
| Teacher Quality | 4.7 |
| Counseling/Support Services | 4.7 |
| Overall Value | 4.7 |
Which School Is For You: Side-by-Side Comparison
This is a side-by-side comparison of our results.
How They Rank:
| School | IB Diploma | US Diploma | Class Size | Facilities | Extracurriculars | Diversity | Yearly Cost* |
| Country Day | - | Yes | 22:1 | A+ | A | A | $12K |
| British | Yes | - | 15:1 | A | A | B | $12K |
| Lincoln | Yes | Yes | 10:1 | A | A | A | $11K |
| European | Yes | - | 20:1 | B+ | A | B | $13.5K |
| Humboldt | Yes | - | 20:1 | B+ | A | B | $11K |
| Blue Valley | Yes | Yes | 22:1 | A | A | B | $17K |
| Pan-American | - | Yes | 17:1 | A | A | A | $8K |
| Mount View | Yes | - | N/A | B | A | B | N/A |
| Berkeley Academy | - | Yes | 16:1 | A | A | A | $11K |
| St. Jude | Yes | - | 17:1 | B | A | B | $11K |
*Cost calculations provided are estimates and subject to variability. We made our calculations based on secondary grade levels, which are generally more expensive. It's important to note that the costs do not include any additional one-time entrance fees, annual registration fees, or yearly expenses for uniforms, technology, and equipment.
Internal Survey Results: Which Are Your Top Three Schools?
| Institution | Votes |
| Blue Valley | 9 |
| Country Day | 9 |
| Lincoln School | 9 |
| Pan American | 8 |
| Humboldt School | 4 |
| Berkley Academy | 2 |
| British School | 2 |
| European School | 1 |
Above and Beyond: Other Private Schools in the Central Valley
The following is a wider list of school options that have been gaining popularity among relocated USA families in recent years. They offer a variety of accreditations and opportunities for their students, so check them out.
Light House International, Santa Ana
Website: https://www.lighthouse.ed.cr/
Preschool through 12th grade. This school has a rigorous curriculum that encourages students to become active listeners while they develop social, academic, physical, and spiritual skills and values. Student life offers a multicultural experience. The school’s main goal is to help students reach their goals of higher education, both locally and internationally. Student to teacher ratio is 3:1.
Accreditation: US high school diploma (compulsory), the local MEP diploma, and the IB diploma or course certifications.
United World College Costa Rica, Santa Ana
Website: https://www.uwccostarica.org/
This residential pre-university program takes two years and it focuses on encouraging students to cultivate a high academic profile oriented towards both environmental and social change. Diversity and sustainability are two of its core values, allowing students to learn and grow from a plurality of frameworks. A wide range of extra-curricular activities, ranging from wellness to movie nights, are part of the program. Around 82% of students have full or partial scholarships.
Accreditation: IB diploma and the local MEP diploma.
International Christian School, Heredia
Website: https://ics.ed.cr/
Preschool through 11th grade, and babies from 3 months onwards can join the school’s early stimulation center. Academic rigor is encouraged in students with a holistic approach where social skills and moral values are incorporated into their worldview. In this way, students graduate with a forward-thinking, community-oriented mindset. Extracurricular activities are available for all grades, including guidance to attend international programs.
Accreditation: IB diploma and the local MEP diploma.
Golden Valley School, Heredia and Alajuela
Website: https://www.goldenvalleyschool.com/?lang=en
Preschool through 12th grade, and an early stimulation center is also available. This school also offers a holistic vision of “learning for life,” merging rigorous academic skills with social and spiritual development. Lessons are taught in three languages: English, German, and Spanish. Sports activities as well as clubs add to the students’ knowledge and enrichment, including areas such as dancing, robotics, chess, and football.
Accreditation: IB diploma and the local MEP diploma.
True North, Escazú
Website: https://truenorthcr.education/
Preschool to high school. This school provides children with a student-centered approach to teaching. This allows kids to maintain a dedicated academic practice combined with activities where they can develop critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. In addition, True North focuses on project-based learning and gives access to one of the first conscious innovation labs in the country, making it a space where children’s individual abilities and interests can grow.
Accreditation: US high school diploma.
Marian Baker School, Tres Rios
Website: https://mbs.ed.cr/
Preschool to 12th grade. The rigorous curriculum at this school develops students’ critical thinking skills while providing space to be creative and to enhance emotional growth. Diversity and knowledge of both the self and each student’s culture is encouraged at every level. The school offers both the major core academic subjects as well as electives that range from arts and crafts to sciences, debating, and sports. The school runs from August to June.
Accreditation: US high school diploma, IB diploma, and the local MEP diploma.
International School SEK Costa Rica, Curridabat
Website: https://sekcostarica.com/en/en-home/
Preschool to 12th grade. The SEK schools are present in Europe, the USA, Latin America, and South Africa. The school has a highly demanding academic curriculum that is expanded by the complementary curriculum that includes subjects such as karate, music, and robotics. This wide range of interests creates critically thinking individuals with an open-minded and hardworking attitude.
Accreditation: IB diploma.
GSD International School Costa Rica, Alajuela
Website: https://www.gsdinternationalschool.com/CostaRica/Default
Preschool to high school. With a focus on innovation, this school aims to provide children with the necessary global educational experience needed to live in the modern world. This is why many classes are taught in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. The school applies a cooperative learning model, providing an integral and inclusive education that encourages academic excellence, social commitment, tolerance, and the protection of the environment. Due to GSD’s collaboration with organizations from various continents, student exchanges and gatherings are sponsored, as well as a variety of extracurricular activities that stimulate cultural, creative, and physical development.
Accreditation: IB diploma.
Tree of Life International School, Santa Ana
Website: https://treeoflifelearning.com/
Preschool to high school. Tree of Life offers project-based learning and a personalized school plan that allows students to expand their abilities and cultivate their interests. Academic rigor is a priority but so is fostering dialogue, creativity, and growth. Working as a team, reasoning, and critical thinking are some of the skills students can hone at this school. Classes are taught in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. Electives vary per semester but are available to all students.
Accreditation: Cambridge-accredited institution, which means students can gain international recognition by taking official IGCSE, AS, and A-Level exams. The local MEP diploma is also obtained.
Choosing the Right School in Costa Rica's Central Valley
As we conclude our exploration of private schools in Costa Rica's Central Valley, we hope that we've given you an insight into the rich and varied educational environment this nation offers. The schools listed, with their focus on academic rigor, language mastery, cultural immersion, or global citizenship, provide diverse and dynamic learning experiences, preparing students to become tomorrow's global leaders, armed with a wide range of skills, values, and knowledge essential for success in a globally connected world.
When you start the journey of choosing the right educational path for your child in Costa Rica's Central Valley, remember that exploring your options is a journey in itself. Take your time and thoroughly study them. If you need expert advice, ask for help. Each school has its unique atmosphere and approach to education, and finding the ideal match for your child's needs and goals is key. We encourage you to visit the schools, speak with educators, and interact with current students and parents to gain a deeper understanding of each institution's ethos and offerings. This immersive approach to your search will enable you to make a well-informed decision that aligns with your child's educational and personal developmental needs. Embrace this adventure with enthusiasm, knowing that the right choice will pave the way for a future filled with possibilities and success.
