General COSI:
Is it possible to study in both San José and Manuel Antonio during my time at COSI?Yes. Many students study in San José and at the beach.
What kind of does COSI arrange?
We can arrange canopy tours, white water rafting, Aerial Tram-Rain Forest as well as visits to major cities, volcanoes and beaches.
Do you offer classes for families? Are there classes for children?
Yes. Children should take classes in private tutoring only.
Can I stay longer than I originally intended at COSI?
Staying or studying longer at COSI is not a problem.
Homestay:
How far will my house be from the school?
Most houses are within walking distance from the school. However during June and July some students might need to ride a bus for about 15 minutes. In Manuel Antonio beach it is necessary to ride a bus to the host family.
Can I stay with my host family after I have finished taking Spanish classes?
Yes.
What are the other possibilities if I do not want to stay with a host family?
There are several hotels close to COSI either in San José or Manuel Antonio. In San José, we own several apartments where you can rent a room or the entire apartment.
Do you offer homestays in Manuel Antonio?
Yes. Our homestays are with families that live in Quepos. Students have to ride a bus to get to school.
Can you accommodate a family of four or five?
Yes. Families are always welcome. Children should take classes in private tutoring only.
If I do not feel comfortable with my host family, can I switch to another one?
If there are any problems, we would be happy to change families for you at no extra cost.
Airport pick-up & Transportation:
Who will pick me up at the airport?
A member of the COSI staff will pick you up. The person will hold a sign with your name on it as well as the COSI emblem.
Do you arrange for airport pick up in Quepos?
Yes, we do.
How will I get to Manuel Antonio?
You can get to Manuel Antonio by bus, small plane or by taxi. We can help you with the arrangements. You might need to spend the first night in San José, either in a hotel or with a host family.
Classes:
When can I start taking classes?
Classes start every Monday throughout the year. Exceptions can always be made.
Do I need to take a test before I start my classes so that COSI will know the level of my Spanish?
The first day of class you will take an oral placement test to make sure you are in the appropriate class level.
I have never studied Spanish before, is it still possible to take classes at COSI?
Of course! Some students arrive at COSI without any knowledge of Spanish.
How long will it take me to learn Spanish?
It depends on your Spanish knowledge before you arrive. Without any previous language experience, you can learn basic knowledge in about 4 weeks.
Does COSI have Internet access?
Yes. Both schools are equipped with computers. All have Internet access.
Is there a difference between your San José and Manuel Antonio programs?
The only basic difference between the 2 programs is location. Our San José location is in a suburb of San José. Our program at the beach is a little more tropical.
Other:
Do I need a visa to travel or to study in Costa Rica?
Students from Europe, the USA and Japan get a 90 day tourist visa when they arrive in Costa Rica. If you are planning on staying in Costa Rica for more than 3 months, you will have to leave the country for a minimum of 3 days (72 hours) before re-entering the country.
Can I receive for taking Spanish classes at COSI?
Yes. COSI´s course syllabus must be approved by the director of the Spanish department of the student´s host university or college prior to starting classes. At the completion of the program, a transcript will be sent to the student´s host school.
Are there in San José and in Manuel Antonio?
Volunteer opportunities are available in various organizations in San José, as well as in several national parks throughout Costa Rica, including Manuel Antonio.
What should I do when I have a question that is not listed here?
Please email your question to office@cosi.co.cr
