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CIEE Tropical Ecology + Conservation in Monteverde, Costa Rica (Outgoing Program) Print  Save  Share
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Language(s) of Instruction: English, Spanish Min GPA: 2.5
Housing: Apartment (shared), Homestay Academic Area: Architecture, Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, Marine Science, Math/Statistics, Mathematics & Statistics, Neuroscience, Tourism, Writing, Zoology
Program Description:

CIEE College Study Abroad

Tropical Ecology + Conservation

Monteverde, Costa Rica

Visit CIEE's Program Page

Program Overview

Your Tropical Ecology + Conservation program in Monteverde places you in one of the world's most biodiverse environments, where lush rainforest landscapes and conservation efforts shape everyday learning. The program features key components including three CIEE biology/ecology courses and one independent research course. Learning is extended through co-curricular and extracurricular activities, including immersive multi-day excursions exploring ecosystems such as the cloud forest, lowland tropical rainforest, and mangrove habitats, offering hands-on insight into Costa Rica's environmental diversity. Monteverde's cloud forests, incredible biodiversity, and strong environmental focus create an ideal setting for an engaging and transformative study abroad experience.

Unique Experiences

Explore beyond Monteverde

when you visit Costa Rica's other fascinating natural habitats

Put new skills into practice

as you complete an independent research project that gives you an in-depth look at local flora or fauna

Be enchanted and inspired

when you hike under the dripping boughs of the cloud forest and observe colorful plants and animals

Learn More About Monteverde

Your Destination

Monteverde is Costa Rica's renowned ecological haven, celebrated for its rich biodiversity, pioneering conservation efforts, and commitment to sustainability. The town seamlessly integrates scientific research with eco-tourism, featuring iconic landmarks like the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, the Butterfly Gardens, and the stunning hanging bridges. With a tropical highland climate, diverse ecosystems, and a strong emphasis on reforestation and renewable energy, Monteverde is the perfect place to study abroad.

Your Destination
Housing

Housing

CIEE Monteverde students live in on-campus residence halls surrounded by the Cloud Forest in triple or quad rooms shared with other CIEE students.?Rooms have shared or ensuite bathrooms, shared desks,?and shared closets.

View CIEE's program page for additional housing information.

Program Highlights

  • Academic Courses: Enroll in CIEE courses related to tropical ecology and conservation in the heart of the rainforest.
  • Academic Projects: Enroll in a for-credit independent research project.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Community Impact Initiative: Get involved with local organizations through service opportunities that address real community needs while building cross-cultural connections and hands-on experience.
  • Experiential Ecological Exploration: Multi-day educational excursions across diverse ecosystems, offering firsthand insight into Costa Rica's rich environmental landscapes.

Activities

CIEE's excursions and cultural activities in Monteverde will open doors for you to explore Costa Rica's rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.?

Samples of past excursions and activities:

  • See how local coffee farms, livestock, and butterfly gardens add to Monteverde's vibrant landscape
  • Visit natural destinations, such as national parks or reserves to experience Costa Rica's biodiversity and natural beauty
  • Enjoy overnight experiences at world renowned sites such as La Selva Biological Station

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.

Academics

CIEE Monteverde:?Study in the beautiful town of San Luis in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province, surrounded by lush forests and beautiful coffee farms. CIEE Monteverde is fully equipped with three classrooms, a student lounge, a library, a student life office, and an academic advising office.?

View CIEE's program page for additional academic information, eligibility requirements, and courses.

1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!

GAIN Travel Grants - Up to $1,500 toward travel costs guaranteed to students with a FAFSA SAI of $10,000 or less. Higher should still apply!

Gilman Go Global Grants - Up to $2,500/semester, $1,500/quarter, and $1,000 guaranteed to Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship applicants.

Merit-Based Scholarships - Up to $2,500/semester, $1,500/quarter, and $750/summer awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.

Learn More About Scholarships

What's Included

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
  • Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
  • Orientation – an introduction to your academic program, plus practical information about living in your host city
  • Full-time program leadership and support in your host city
  • Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
  • Excursions and/or Study Tours
  • Insurance and other travel benefits, with CIEE iNext Travel Protection
  • 24/7 emergency on-site support

Why CIEE

  • 200+ study abroad programs in 40+ countries
  • $8 million in scholarships offered each year
  • 1 in 3 students receives a scholarship
  • Study tours and cultural activities included
  • Internships and volunteering opportunities
  • Rigorous academics
  • Cultural immersion
  • iNext Travel Protection included

Questions?

Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.

Contact Us





 

Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring 2027 10/01/2026 ** Rolling Admission 01/11/2027 04/03/2027

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.