Cookie policy

By clicking on or navigating the site, you agree to allow us to collect information on and off Studee as outlined in our cookie policy.

Home

      Change currency

      Current currency

      United States Dollar

      Most popular

      Exchange rates updated in last 24 hours.

      Photo of San José

      Study in San José

      All the information you need about studying in San José as an international student.

      Find programs in San José

      Why study in San José?

      Costa Rica’s capital and biggest city, San José is a diverse and vibrant city with a large number of universities and colleges. It’s the country’s education hub, with a large student population and plenty of attractions, including the neoclassical National Theater. Outside the city, there are some of Costa Rica’s must-see sights, including Arenal Volcano and the Monteverde cloud forest.

      San José is a densely populated city, but there are plenty of parks and squares where you can get away from the hustle and bustle. You can get around the city using its bus routes, or by taking one of the red public taxis. San José has a tropical climate, so expect year round heat and periods of rain.

      Universities in San José

      Student reviews for San José

      • Jacinta Astles
        Australia
        Overall experience 5 stars
        Academic
        5 stars
        University social
        5 stars
        Accommodation
        5 stars
        University facilities
        5 stars
        University for Peace Peace Studies
        Tell us about San José
        Town is fairly safe, there are buses to the capital city and all the shops and services that you need. There are a couple of bars in town.
      • Pedro Fonseca
        Nicaragua
        Overall experience 3 stars
        Academic
        3 stars
        University social
        2 stars
        Accommodation
        2 stars
        University facilities
        2 stars
        University for Peace Dispute Resolution
        Tell us about San José
        Is the worst place. There’s just one supermarket and is very small.
      • Yumiko Takano
        Japan
        Overall experience 5 stars
        Academic
        4 stars
        University social
        4 stars
        Accommodation
        4 stars
        University facilities
        3 stars
        University for Peace Peace Studies
        Tell us about San José
        Ciudad Colon is relatively a safe and quiet neighbourhood. I felt very welcome here too. Transportation is quite accessible and Uber made things easier. More options for shops and night life in Santa Ana and San Jose city.
      • Kathryn Fahey
        United States
        Overall experience 5 stars
        Academic
        3 stars
        University social
        5 stars
        Accommodation
        4 stars
        University facilities
        3 stars
        University for Peace Human Rights
        Tell us about San José
        I live in El Rodeo, which is a super remote town right near the university. I love it - it feels super safe, has an intimate feel and is in the beauty of Costa Rica's nature. It's remote so people should be aware of that, but there's a mini mart that is a life saver.
      • Tiyamike Mkanthama
        Malawi
        Overall experience 5 stars
        Academic
        4 stars
        University social
        4 stars
        Accommodation
        4 stars
        University facilities
        3 stars
        University for Peace Environmental Science
        Tell us about San José
        The City is called Ciudad Colón. It is a small town with a small town vibe. The people are approachable and willing to help the students. The climate is perfect if one does not mind hot and humid weathers (with lots of rain during the day). I personally feel safe, but I know some people were exposed to some worrying experiences like burgalary and mugging. It appears safety reputation is getting dented a little bit over time.

      How Studee can help you

      1. University & program search

        Find the right program for you and your career aspirations

      2. Application guidance

        We'll get you to the right place to start your application

      3. Visa & travel advice

        Get help after application, all the way to your first day at university

      Our team of advisors is ready to support you at every step of your study abroad journey.
      Our services are 100% free for students like you because we're funded by universities.

      Start your search Get free advice