Vera went on high school exchange to Costa Rica

Thu Dec 11 2025

Vera from Sweden spent her high school exchange in Costa Rica.

I cannot recommend enough Costa Rica as a high school exchange destination! If you are looking for something completely different and a big adventure… this is it!!!

Living in a Costa Rican host family

Living in a host family might feel intimidating, especially in a country so culturally different to your own and where communication might be more difficult. But not to worry, Costa Ricans are the nicest people I have ever met and you will be welcomed into their family directly. They often have big families and you will find yourself at numerous big gatherings with all of their extended family, and everyone will make you fell right at home.

School in Costa Rica

School was nothing like what I was used to back home in Sweden. Which made it so much more fun. The school days in Costa Rica are quite long, but it just gives you more time to bond with your classmates. As said, Costa Ricans are incredibly nice and they will welcome you directly. My classmates always made sure to help me if I got lost and they were very patient when practicing Spanish with me.

My best memories

Some of the best memories in Costa Rica are from the numerous trips that the STS partner organization organized. They were all a great opportunity to see more of Costa Rica and I got to hang out with the other exchange students.

Friends

You easily become close friends with ther other exchange students. You will realize that they are the only ones that can truly relate to what you’re going through during your exchange. I still keep in touch with many of the exchange students I met in Costa Rica.

How the exchange affected me

I truly believe my high school exchange played I huge role in who I am today. In the best possible way. I came home more mature, confident and with new perspectives on life.

Find out more

Read more student stories from Costa Rica
Read more about a high school exchange in Costa Rica
See all our high school exchange destinations

Learn more about high school exchange with STS

First name

Last name

E-mail

Confirm E-mail

Student's date of birth

Mobile number

Message

Yes, please. I would like to receive inspiration and information about news and special offers from STS. I, who am under 18 years of age, have my parents' consent to STS's use of my personal data. Here you can read more about how we handle your personal data according to the STS Privacy Policy.

No, thank you, I do not want to receive marketing emails from STS. However, I am aware that I may be contacted by STS in the matter of going on an exchange year.

FAQ

Show all

Can I take part in sports during my exchange year?
Of course! Let us know which sport you would like to play when you apply and we will do our best to find a school where you can practice your interest.
What sort of school will I attend?
In most countries, you will attend public schools. The difference between public and private schools differs between countries.
Does STS have a contact person at my destination?
Yes, no matter where you go, we have a local representative at your location. It is the local area representative who works to approve our host families, have contact with schools and will be your supporter and advisor during your exchange year.
I am ready to apply, how do I do it?
The easiest way to apply is to visit the page of your favourite destination and click the "Apply now" button. You will then receive more information on how to book a personal interview with us. Your application is not binding, and you make your final decision once you have been accepted.