Study in Costa Rica

The Basics..

Immerse yourself in tropical forest conservation on the Tulane Study Abroad Program (TSAP) in Costa Rica. The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) offers an outstanding opportunity to gain field experience while you work towards your undergraduate degree in the biological or environmental sciences as well as other related fields. While some Spanish is used in the field, classes are conducted in English.

On the Costa Rica TSAP, the “classroom” includes such sites as Palo Verde National Park, La Selva Biological Station, and Las Cruces Biological Station. Students are supported on site by OTS staff and distinguished professors brought in to share their expertise. All grades, credits, and courses – such as Fundamentals of Tropical Biology, Environmental Science and Policy, Field Research in Tropical Biology, and Spanish Language and Latin American Culture – become part of your Tulane record when you complete the Costa Rica program.

When Can I Go?

Exact semester dates vary year by year using the following general calendar:

You will receive more specific program details from OTS during the semester before departure.

Where Will I Live?

Housing is arranged by the OTS and is typical of the field experience, ranging from large rooms of bunk beds to smaller rooms for four to six people. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a 3-week homestay, the ideal opportunity to deepen your cultural and linguistic understanding of Costa Rica.

What Are The Costs?

Studying abroad is affordable. Costs vary by program and student lifestyle. Because students on TSAPs pay Tulane University tuition for their studies abroad, most Tulane and federal financial aid applies. Below is an average of the per-semester cost for the 2005-06 year to help you with your budgeting:

~ This includes the cost of Tulane tuition and the required Academic Support Service Fee. The cost of tuition for 2006-07 has yet to be determined. Students are billed through Tulane for tuition and the Academic Support Service Fee, as well as the required International Evacuation Insurance. Students pay all other costs, including housing, directly as they occur.

* Living costs vary widely and include housing, meals, books, round-trip airfare from New Orleans, health and evacuation insurance, passport, visa, and personal expenses. They do not include vacation travel.

Am I Eligible?

In order to apply for the program of your choice, you need to meet and maintain the following requirements:

All students must complete Tulane proficiency requirements the semester before starting a TSAP. Students who have ever been on disciplinary or honor board probation are not eligible to apply.

How Do I Apply?

Begin the process well in advance of the year or semester you plan to study abroad. Deadlines vary depending on the host institution’s deadlines and admissions policies. Start with the submission of your online TSAP application:

Some programs fill up before the deadline so you are strongly advised to submit your application early to increase your chances of being accepted.

A complete application includes a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation from Tulane faculty, one photo and a $50 non-refundable deposit. Late or incomplete applications will be rejected.

Upon conditional acceptance from the CIS, you will submit an application to the host program abroad. Final acceptance to study abroad is contingent upon this application and your ability to maintain the above eligibility requirements through the semester before departure.

Getting Started…

For more information about the TSAP in Costa Rica, visit http://www.ots.duke.edu/ to find out if studying with the OTS is right for you!