Academia Tica 
San Jose, Costa Rica 
Quinta Toyopán, 400 este del Súper La Finca - 11102 San Jose - see on mapPay less than booking at the school
What we like about the school
- Small class sizes
- Excellent rating of teaching quality4.7
- Excellent rating of homestay accommodation4.7
- Top rated social activities4.4
- Apartment - shared / Residence accommodation very close to school
- Top rated school facilities4.6
- Indoor swimming pool
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Learning progress guarantee.
- Optional language workshops.
What we dislike about the school
- School is located about 30 minutes by public transport to San José city.
Location: Academia Tica San Jose is located in the culturally rich Costa Rican capital of San José. The school is housed in Coronado, a typical Costa Rican town on the outskirts of the city, in an area beneficial to many students, as it is non-touristic and strategically located close to transport networks, the rainforest, volcanoes, urban jungles and more!
Course selection: Academia Tica in San José provides General Spanish courses to students of all levels, over various schedules and intensities. In addition to this, DELE Exam preparation, Spanish for Specific Purposes, and private tuition are also readily available.
School facilities: The school is surrounded by a garden and various on-site areas for entertainment, relaxation and socialising. These facilities include a games room, an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, soccer pitches, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and more. Academia Tica San Jose also has a library, a movie room, a cafeteria and free WIFI.
All classrooms have ample natural light to create an optimal learning environment.
Social and cultural: San José is ripe with history, nature, art and attractions. The school offers up-to-date, helpful information for all students that wish to leave the school's private gardens and seek further adventure in and around the city. Attractions and activities promoted by the school include Locos por el Bosque, San Isidro neo-Gothic Church, Braulio Carrillo National Park, San José city, Club Los Jaúles and the great expanse of hikes, walks and forests found locally.
Spanish Courses
General Language
Intensive Course 
20 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from290US$276US$ / week More
Intensive Course
20 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
290US$276US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 290 276 | 580 551 | 870 827 | 1160 1102 | 1430 1359 | 1700 1615 | 1970 1872 | 2240 2128 | 2480 2356 | 2720 2584 | 3200 3040 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 11:40
Afternoon: 12:20 - 16:00
Morning: 8:00 - 11:40
Afternoon: 12:20 - 16:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Student comments about "Intensive Course " at Academia Tica
Amélie
"Not learn as much as I would loved to cause not everyone in the class was at the same level! But the teacher was good, I just would love to practice/speak more and different stuff more (verb tense, etc)"
Special note for 2025 holiday season: If you plan to take a course during the high season months of April, June, July or August 2025 we urgently advise you to book as early as possible. In 2024 many schools were fully booked during the holidays, and the situation is unlikely to be different for 2025 due to a current shortage of teachers, which affects most schools.
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Bildungsurlaub Course 
In high demand!30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from500US$475US$ / week More
Bildungsurlaub Course
In high demand!
30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
500US$475US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 500 475 | 1000 950 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 14:00
Morning: 8:00 - 14:00
Possible course durations
1, 2 weeks
Minimum required student age
18 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Intensive Plus25 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from410US$390US$ / week More
Intensive Plus
25 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
410US$390US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 410 390 | 820 779 | 1230 1169 | 1640 1558 | 2030 1929 | 2420 2299 | 2810 2670 | 3200 3040 | 3560 3382 | 3920 3724 | 4640 4408 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course includes 20 group lessons and 5 private lessons per week.
Course specific data
General course schedule
5 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 13:10
Morning: 8:00 - 13:10
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Super Intensive Plus30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from530US$504US$ / week More
Super Intensive Plus
30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
530US$504US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 530 504 | 1060 1007 | 1590 1511 | 2120 2014 | 2630 2499 | 3140 2983 | 3650 3468 | 4160 3952 | 4640 4408 | 5120 4864 | 6080 5776 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course includes 20 group lessons plus 10 private lessons per week.
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 14:00
Morning: 8:00 - 14:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Interactive Program10 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from590US$561US$ / week More
Interactive Program
10 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
590US$561US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 590 561 | 1180 1121 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course includes 10 Spanish lessons in a mini group, 5 cultural and/or educational activities and 2 excursions a week.
Course specific data
General course schedule
2 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 11:40
Morning: 8:00 - 11:40
Possible course durations
1, 2 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Student comments about "Interactive Program" at Academia Tica
Lucie
"I loved this program that combines learning in the class and learning through activities. "
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Intensive Spanish for Specific Purposes30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from530US$504US$ / week More
Intensive Spanish for Specific Purposes
30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
530US$504US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 530 504 | 1060 1007 | 1590 1511 | 2120 2014 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course includes 20 group lessons plus 10 lessons of Spanish for Specific Purposes a week.
This course is for professionals who already have sufficient command of Spanish to learn technical language in their field of expertise: medicine, nursing, veterinary, business, law.
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 14:00
Morning: 8:00 - 14:00
Possible course durations
1, 2, 3, 4 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Spanish for Specific Purposes10 lessons per week | 3 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from260US$247US$ / week More
Spanish for Specific Purposes
10 lessons per week | 3 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
260US$247US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 260 247 | 520 494 | 780 741 | 1040 988 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course is for professionals that already have sufficient command of Spanish to learn technical language in their field of expertise: medicine, nursing, veterinary, business, law.
Course specific data
General course schedule
2 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Afternoon: 12:20 - 14:00
Afternoon: 12:20 - 14:00
Possible course durations
1, 2, 3, 4 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 3 / Average: 2
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Private
Private 1010 lessons per week | 1 student (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from260US$247US$ / week More
Private 10
10 lessons per week | 1 student (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
260US$247US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 260 247 | 520 494 | 780 741 | 1040 988 | 1280 1216 | 1520 1444 | 1760 1672 | 2000 1900 | 2210 2100 | 2420 2299 | 2840 2698 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course allows students to focus on their specific language needs.
Course specific data
General course schedule
2 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Afternoon: 12:00 - 15:00
Afternoon: 12:00 - 15:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Private 20 20 lessons per week | 1 student (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from500US$475US$ / week More
Private 20
20 lessons per week | 1 student (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
500US$475US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 500 475 | 1000 950 | 1500 1425 | 2000 1900 | 2480 2356 | 2960 2812 | 3440 3268 | 3920 3724 | 4370 4152 | 4820 4579 | 5720 5434 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course allows students to focus on their specific language needs.
Course specific data
General course schedule
4 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Afternoon: 12:00 - 15:00
Afternoon: 12:00 - 15:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Private 3030 lessons per week | 1 student (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from750US$713US$ / week More
Private 30
30 lessons per week | 1 student (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
750US$713US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 750 713 | 1500 1425 | 2250 2138 | 3000 2850 | 3730 3544 | 4460 4237 | 5190 4931 | 5920 5624 | 6620 6289 | 7320 6954 | 8720 8284 |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
This course allows students to focus on their specific language needs.
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Afternoon: 12:00 - 15:00
Afternoon: 12:00 - 15:00
Possible course durations
1-99 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 1 / Average: 1
Lesson duration
50 min
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Exam PreparationWhy exam preparation courses are excellent for optimum progress
DELE Exam Practice 
10 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from250US$238US$ / week More
DELE Exam Practice
10 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
250US$238US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 250 238 | 500 475 | 750 713 | 1000 950 | 1200 1140 | 1400 1330 | 1600 1520 | 1800 1710 | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Academia Tica is an examination centre for DELE.
This course focuses on practicing all sections of the DELE exam.
Course specific data
Possible course durations
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Exam dates
04 Apr 2025, 24 May 2025, 11 Jul 2025, 22 Nov 2025
Additional information for all courses
See availability
DELE Exam Preparation30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)Starts weekly (every Monday)Offer!from500US$475US$ / week More
DELE Exam Preparation
30 lessons per week | 6 students (max)
Starts weekly (every Monday)
Offer!from
500US$475US$ / week
More
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price at school (US$) Our price (US$) | 500 475 | 1000 950 | 1500 1425 | 2000 1900 | 2450 2328 | 2900 2755 | 3350 3183 | 3800 3610 | -- | -- | -- |
See availability
Starting dates
Every Monday
Academia Tica is an examination centre for DELE.
This course consists of 20 general group lessons + 10 group lessons for DELE exam training.
The first 20 lessons are general Spanish so you work on your language skills, reinforce topics that they may feel weak and practice a lot on conversation, grammar, etc. The other 10 lessons are strictly for practice on DELE: working on sample exams along the teacher, discussing topics that may be in the different parts of the exam, making timed practices, etc.
Course specific data
General course schedule
6 daily lessons of 50 minutes will take place within the following possible time slots. The exact schedule will be assigned on the first day of class according to your level:
Morning: 8:00 - 11:40
Afternoon: 12:20 - 14:00
Morning: 8:00 - 11:40
Afternoon: 12:20 - 14:00
Possible course durations
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 weeks
Minimum required student age
16 years
Students per class
Maximum: 6 / Average: 5
Lesson duration
50 min
Exam dates
04 Apr 2025, 24 May 2025, 11 Jul 2025, 22 Nov 2025
Additional information for all courses
See availability
Our prices for Academia Tica include
- INCLUDED Organized activities
- INCLUDED Internet access and use of school computers
- INCLUDED Free access to swimming pool
- INCLUDED Wireless LAN zone at school
- INCLUDED Free certificate of course attendance
- INCLUDED Language level placement test at first day of classes
- INCLUDED Language level placement test before arrival
- INCLUDED For adult courses: a minimum of one free organized leisure activity per week
- INCLUDED Learning progress guarantee
- INCLUDED Optional language workshops
Academia Tica garden1/48
Academia Tica school building2/48
Stand-up paddleboarding3/48
Building 4/48
Lessson outdoors 5/48
Academia Tica classroom6/48
Horseback riding 7/48
Happy students 8/48
Class outdoors 9/48
San Jose city 10/48
Birds11/48
Trees12/48
Exploring13/48
Excursions 14/48
La Paz Waterfall15/48
Travelling Classroom16/48
Cooking class 17/48
Sites18/48
Academia Tica residence19/48
Seeing San Jose20/48
Hiking21/48
walking tour22/48
Students in San Jose 23/48
students24/48
Academia Tica accommodation25/48
Class26/48
Streets of San Jose27/48
Tropical fruit class28/48
Exporing nature in San Jose 29/48
Academia Tica travelling classroom30/48
Certificates 31/48
Waterfall32/48
outdoors33/48
Group34/48
Sightseeing in San Jose35/48
lesson36/48
Views of San Jose 37/48
School38/48
Picture of nature 39/48
Activity40/48
Birds in nature 41/48
Academia Tica games room42/48
Volcano excursions43/48
In the jungle44/48
City tour45/48
White river rafting46/48
Bathroom47/48
Academia Tica facilities48/48
Student opinions about Academia Tica, San Jose
4.7
Overall school rating of
Academia Tica, San Jose
Academia Tica, San Jose
16 authentic ratings from students who reserved with us
School
Location of the school
Facilities
Social activities
Organisation
Course
Quality of teaching
Value for money
Accommodation
Homestay
Shared Flat (apartment)
Overall school rating by student age group
Students < 18 years (2 ratings)
Students 18-30 years (4 ratings)
Students 31-49 years (4 ratings)
Students 50+ years (6 ratings)
Verified reviews only, uncensored. All student opinions from students who booked a course at the school with LanguageCourse.net.
Bärbel
68 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“The school is very well organised and the teachers are very experienced. There are plenty of classrooms. The classes are actually put together according to level and the teacher changes every week. I liked that, because you always learn new teaching methods.
I can't say anything about the accommodation at the school, as I stayed with a family.”
“All good”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 2 weeks
Review date: 14. Feb. 2022 by Bärbel Bösner
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Lucie
66 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“The welcome, professionalism and friendliness of all the staff, both teachers and support staff. The quality of teaching while making learning enjoyable and entertaining. I liked the weekly assessments every Friday, which allowed us to see how our learning was progressing.”
“The person in charge of the school's activities lacked experience. We had a mixture of young and not-so-young students. The activities were not sufficiently described to help us decide whether or not we could or wanted to take part. On several occasions, the activity did not meet my expectations. On one occasion, an excursion was much more physically demanding but we had not been sufficiently warned. Another activity had to be cancelled because of a mix-up with the transport booking.”
Insider tip: “You need to socialise with the other students. This creates a nice atmosphere at school.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: I loved this program that combines learning in the class and learning through activities.
Other comments I really liked it. All the staff works hard so our experience is enjoyable and worth it.
Course: Interactive Program [Spanish] - 3 weeks
Review date: 4. Mar. 2024 by Lucie Gauthier
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Estelle
20 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“- Very good and kind teachers,
- Fun activities,
- Proper and clean school,
- I felt really comfortable and welcomed,
- If you need help or have question there is always someone you can talk to,
- Great garden in front of the house,
- Surrounded by a lot of nature.”
“- Some things really missing in the kitchen,
- A lot of ants.”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 1 week
Review date: 7. Dec. 2021 by Estelle Kops
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Haruki
26 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“It is a very small and cozy school. For this reason, the teachers are very close to the students and you can learn in a homey environment. There are activities on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and I really enjoyed them every week!”
Details of the review
Other comments Have a great time in Costa Rica with a group of teachers full of personality!!!
Course: Intensive Course [スペイン語] - 12 weeks
Review date: 29. Jun. 2022 by Haruki Yamaguchi
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Robert
79 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“Very good lessons and great professors. The lessons were taught in a manner that made it fun and easy to learn. I had private lessons the first two weeks, which was great.”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 3 weeks
Review date: 11. Mar. 2024 by Robert Cannon
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Margaret
72 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“Academia Tica was an outstanding experience in learning Spanish as well as the Costa Rican culture. My home stay family was fantastic!”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 2 weeks
Review date: 19. Feb. 2024 by Margaret Hutson
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Hendrik
19 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“Because there were so few students (at least at my level), I had 2/3 weeks of private lessons at no extra cost :)”
“Unfortunately a different teacher every week - but the best one came at the end - greetings to Susana :)”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 3 weeks
Review date: 4. Feb. 2025 by Hendrik Jesse
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Amélie
30 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“Everything was great! People there, who were working there and organization and teachers were great!”
Insider tip: “Just realise that it you are in a host family, they don't speak English, and from the school it is so hard to hang out at night with friends from school but doable.”
Details of the review
Quality of teaching / language progress: Not learn as much as I would loved to cause not everyone in the class was at the same level! But the teacher was good, I just would love to practice/speak more and different stuff more (verb tense, etc)
Other comments If you really wanna be in an good immersion/learn latino culture and Spanish, go in a host family, they are awesome!
Course: Intensive Course - 1 week
Review date: 16. Jan. 2023 by Amélie Labelle-Bérard
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Nicole
36 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“The atmosphere, the teachers, the lessons were very adapted to the needs”
Insider tip: “The free gym”
Details of the review
Course: General Spanish - 1 week
Review date: 4. Jan. 2018 by Nicole Grützmacher
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Elischia
39 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“Great teachers, good location for relaxation, friendly staff.”
“Admin and staff wasn't always on the same page, which caused confusion with several incidents. I also didn't care for not getting consistent communication without me having to prove each time. For example, whenever we didn't have water, students had to figure things out for ourselves by asking around instead of staff making sure to update us regularly and letting us know our options.”
Insider tip: “Be prepared for water shortages.”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 9 weeks
Review date: 8. Aug. 2022 by Elischia Fludd
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
John
83 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“Excellent teacher. Friendly and helpful staff.”
“No complaints.”
Details of the review
Course: Intensive Course - 3 weeks
Review date: 5. Feb. 2024 by John Civille
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Alexander
23 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“The school team was very nice and open!”
Details of the review
Course: General Spanish - 2 weeks
Review date: 29. Aug. 2018 by Alexander Großbichler
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Laura
18 yearsOverall rating
5.0
“The teacher and the atmosphere”
Insider tip: “Manuel Antonio, Isla Tortuga, Canopy”
Details of the review
Course: Standard Course - 4 weeks
Review date: 13. Aug. 2012 by Laura Dorst
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Christel
53 yearsOverall rating
4.0
“The Organisation”
Insider tip: “I was there only a week.”
Details of the review
Course: Combination Course (20 Group + 5 Individual) - 1 week
Review date: 28. Aug. 2016 by Christel Cornelis
Verified student who booked this course with LanguageCourse.net.
Ratings of Academia Tica compared to ratings of all schools in Costa Rica
| Academia Tica San Jose | Average of all other schools in Costa Rica | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall school rating | ||
| Location of the school | ||
| Facilities | ||
| Social activities | ||
| Organisation | ||
| Quality of teaching | ||
| Value for money | ||
| Homestay | ||
| Shared flat |
Academia Tica
Accreditations and Quality seals
NYSAFLTSpanish teacher qualifications
100% hold a university degree
100% hold a recognised language teaching qualification
Languages spoken by school staff (cannot be guaranteed by school)
Student gender mix
40% male / 60% female
Offer for returning students
You will be refunded/waived the school's administration fee if you already attended previously a course at Academia Tica and you book here.
Year of school foundation
1986
The school is an official exam center
The following language examinations can be taken directly at the school:
General school facilities
Kitchen for student use
Cafeteria
Fridge for student use
Microwave for student use
Computer lab
Library
Daily press
Movie room
Games room
Lounge
Garden
Student support desk
Indoor swimming pool
Outdoor swimming pool
Table tennis
Soccer field / football pitch
Basketball court
Volleyball court
Gym
Printer for student use
Copy machine
Free coffee
Free water dispenser
Free WIFI
Free parking
Non-smoking (all indoor and all outdoor areas of school)
Facilities for islamic students
Available area to pray at the school
Homestay option that can prepare halal food
Homestay option for female islamic students where no men are living in household and that prepare halal food
Classroom equipment
TV in some classrooms
Ample natural light in all classrooms
- Number of classrooms: 10
- Number of public PC workstations: 4
Facilities for disabled students
Disabled car park
Wheelchair access to classroom
Accessible Toilet
Wheelchair access to cafeteria
Student Age / Nationality
Top student nationalities
| Student Nationality | Percentage of students |
|---|---|
| USA | 17% |
| Germany | 13% |
| Switzerland | 11% |
| France | 9% |
| Sweden | 7% |
| England | 6% |
| Italy | 5% |
| Netherlands | 5% |
| Japan | 4% |
| Brazil | 3% |
| China | 1% |
| Other nationalities | 19% |
Age of students
| Percentage of students | |
|---|---|
| 1-18 years | 7% |
| 18-24 years | 29% |
| 25-34 years | 31% |
| 35-50 years | 27% |
| >50 years | 6% |
The average age outside summer is 3 years higher than in summer.
Average number of students
In summer: 30
Throughout the year: 20
Junior courses - In summer: 20
Minimum age of students
16 years
13 years for specific Junior courses
Average number of levels
Adult courses In summer: 6
Adult courses Throughout the year: 6
Junior courses In summer: 6
Junior courses Throughout the year: 6
Average age of students
In summer: 22 years
Throughout the year: 25 years
Information for all courses offered by Academia Tica
Lesson duration
50 minutes
Course material
Generally course material has to be purchased by the student. The costs of course material will be approximately 35 US$ per course level.
Comments about courses
NOTE: The school will often be open on public holidays and close on the Friday of the same week. For all other public holidays it is best to double check with the school before planning a day off. Exceptions to this being 01.January and 25.December.
Volunteering Program Fees:
- Placement fee: USD 100
- Project donation fee: USD 50
- Course, lodging and meals are not included. Lodging and meals: approximately USD 35 per day.
Internship Program Fees: - Internship placement and supervision fee: USD 350.
Online private lessons: USD 25 each.
Semi-private lessons: USD 28 + USD 10 for each extra student.
Book purchase (OPTIONAL): USD 35.
Individual classes
Single individual lessons of tuition can be reserved at 28 US$. The combination of group and individual lessons is highly recommended. Individual lessons will encourage you to actively speak the foreign language and will offer you the opportunity to discuss individual problems and weaknesses.
Days without class
In 2025 (including national and regional bank holidays):
01 Jan 2025, 17 Apr 2025, 18 Apr 2025, 25 Jul 2025, 15 Aug 2025, 15 Sep 2025, 01 Dec 2025, 25 Dec 2025, 02 May 2025.
01 Jan 2025, 17 Apr 2025, 18 Apr 2025, 25 Jul 2025, 15 Aug 2025, 15 Sep 2025, 01 Dec 2025, 25 Dec 2025, 02 May 2025.
School policy regarding bank holidays:Private classes are recuperated or refunded. Same as for nearly all language schools, group classes falling on bank holiday are not refunded and not recuperated.
Level test
A test to assess your exact language level takes place at the school on the first day of the course.
Lessons needed per Spanish language level
Data above gives some guidance. For more details consult our page How long does it take to learn a language or reach a specific level.
Airport transfer
Juan Santamaria International Airport:
55 US$ one way
110 US$ return (both ways)
110 US$ return (both ways)
Best arrival airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport.
More details about airports near San Jose and how to travel independently from the airport to the city on our San Jose page. For flight comparisons to San Jose, we recommend using skyscanner.com.
Leisure activities
Examples of leisure activities organized by the school
Adults - Free activities
"Crazy for the forest" - a small, local, private cloudforest reserve in the heart of the Coronado mountains, Iglesia de San Isidro, Braulio Carrillo National Park, Club Los Jaúles, hiking and/or biking.
Adults - Paid activities
Horse riding.
Accommodation
Homestay
In high demand!
10 ratings Single room, Breakfast & 1 meal 
Shared bathroom
from
265 US$/ week Show more
Homestay
In high demand!
10 ratings
Single room, Breakfast & 1 meal
Shared bathroom
from
265 US$/ week
Show more
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 265 | 530 | 795 | 1060 | 1325 | 1590 | 1855 | 2120 | 2650 | 3180 | 265 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
An extra night in homestay with a private bathroom costs USD 50.
Check-in
Sunday 14:00-22:00
Check-out
Saturday 8:00-11:00
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
45 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Single room
Private bathroom
Optional at 30US$
Includes
Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (supplement fee), Shared bathroom.
Meals
Breakfast & 1 meal.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
99
Student comments about Homestay
Robert
"The family was fantastic. The host, Isabel, and her husband were very attentative to my needs. Breakfast was prepared at the time requested so that I could get to school on time. Excellent host."
Lucie
"A light was missing to do my homeworks. Apart from that the rest was perfect. The family was super welcoming and showed interest for me. They even invited me to come to come to certain activities. The mother Isabel fed me very well, maybe a bit too much. Their son Alberto helped me many times with the transport or giving suggestions on things to see. "
John
"The long walk, and the simple meals were fine with me. I was happy to lose some weight and to do more exercise. I could put up with the much simpler lifestyle like this for three weeks with no problem. The one thing I would’ve liked to have had would’ve been a more comfortable chair in my bedroom. Señora Isabel was very helpful ."
Amélie
"The family was awesome- super inviting and warm people, I felt at home like I was their children! It was about 35 min walk.
A little far, especially when you want to stay later and hang out with friends at the school and walk back. Maybe a shuttle option (free) would be nice."
Haruki
"The grandchildren of my host mother lived near her house, so the house was always lively with them. If you like children, I recommend this program. Also, I think I improved my language skills a lot because I did not use English at all in the house and only spoke Spanish.
I was not sure if the Costa Rican food would suit my taste, but it was always good to have a variety of dishes!"
Bärbel
"Señora Carmen, an elderly lady, was very nice and cooked me a variety of dishes. Due to my lack of Spanish, conversation was a little difficult. "
Homestay
For the summer, only limited places left!
Reserve as early as possible to get the best available homestay! 10 ratings Double room (only for 2 people travelling together), Breakfast & 1 meal
Shared bathroom
from
220 US$/ week Show more
Homestay
For the summer, only limited places left!
Reserve as early as possible to get the best available homestay!
10 ratings
Double room (only for 2 people travelling together), Breakfast & 1 meal
Shared bathroom
from
220 US$/ week
Show more
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 220 | 440 | 660 | 880 | 1100 | 1320 | 1540 | 1760 | 2200 | 2640 | 220 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Extra night in homestay with private bathroom costs USD 40 per person.
Check-in
Sunday 14:00-22:00
Check-out
Saturday 8:00-11:00
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
40 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Double room (only for 2 people travelling together)
Private bathroom
Optional at 20US$
Includes
Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (supplement fee), Shared bathroom.
Meals
Breakfast & 1 meal.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
99
Student Residence 6 ratings Single room, No meals
Shared bathroom
from
170 US$/ week Show more
Student Residence
6 ratings
Single room, No meals
Shared bathroom
from
170 US$/ week
Show more
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 170 | 340 | 510 | 680 | 850 | 1020 | 1190 | 1360 | 1700 | 2040 | 170 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Check-in
Sunday 14:00-22:00
Check-out
Saturday 8:00-11:00
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
28 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Single room
Distance from school
3 minutes walking (average reported by 4 former students).
Includes
TV, Phone, Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (Free WIFI), Shared bathroom.
Meals
No meals.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
99
Student comments about Student Residence
Elischia
"Overall, the residence is nice, though they could use upgrades for cooking utensils, furniture, and routine inspections to catch repairs. I noticed that people would talk about repairs needed but not to the maintenance staff. If they don't have inspections 1-2x a year, perhaps they should think about it. I think people can forget and also feel scared to say something. I slept on a bunk bed with wood rotting underneath the top bunk and a desk that is also rotting away bit by bit. The classrooms need new chairs, several in one of them were loose or missing screws, which made them unstable to sit in. The microwaves were discovered to be bad in all three houses on campus after I made a request to check the one in my house. The microwaves were in really bad shape which means it had to be like that for a long time. "
Student Residence 6 ratings Double room (only for 2 people travelling together), No meals
Shared bathroom
from
130 US$/ week Show more
Student Residence
6 ratings
Double room (only for 2 people travelling together), No meals
Shared bathroom
from
130 US$/ week
Show more
| Weeks | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 12 | Additional Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price in US$ | 130 | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | 130 |
Minimum stay: 1 week
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Prices based on accommodation from Sunday to Saturday
Price per person
Check-in
Sunday 14:00-22:00
Check-out
Saturday 8:00-11:00
Note: It is important to inform the school if you plan to arrive or leave outside the standard check in/check out times.
Price extra night
22 US$
(Individual extra nights bookable at indicated extra night price)
Room Occupancy
Double room (only for 2 people travelling together)
Distance from school
1 minutes walking.
Includes
TV, Phone, Bedding/linen, Weekly cleaning, Access to laundry service, Access to Wifi in building (Free WIFI), Shared bathroom.
Meals
No meals.
Minimum age of students
16
Maximum age of students
99
Student Testimonial Videos
Note: The video testimonials of students from Academia Tica have been provided by the school and schools do not usually publish negative testimonials. For uncensored reviews read what our students report about their stay at Academia Tica.
Questions and answers about Academia Tica
- When does the level test take place?“On the first day of school there will be a level test at school. If you would like to take a test in advance, contact us. The school can also arrange a Zoom meeting in advance.”Sabine Krafack, LanguageCourse.Net - Apr 10, 2024
- Can I pay the course fees on the first day?“Yes, this is possible.”Sabine Krafack, LanguageCourse.Net - Apr 10, 2024
- What is the process like on the first day of school at Academia Tica Coronado?“08:00 a.m. – Level test and placement in the classes.
08:50 a.m. – First introductory lesson.
09:40 a.m. – Coffee break.
10:00 a.m. – Introduction of the new students.
10:15 a.m – Two more lessons.
11:40 a.m. – Lunch.
12:20 p.m. – Welcome & Orientation Talk.
1:30 p.m. – Welcome & Orientation Tour.”Sabine Krafack, LanguageCourse.Net - Apr 10, 2024 - During which months do you have more younger students wanting to study in adult courses?“In general we have a big group of young adults, so there will be a chance to mingle with younger students throughout the year, but I would say that around July we would probably have more minors than during the rest of the year.”Manuel Al-Ghassani Rodríguez, Director from Academia Tica - Feb 07, 2023
- Is it possible to pay the remaining balance online with a credit card?“Yes, we can create a payment link for you, but an extra fee will incur.”Manuel Al-Ghassani Rodriguez, Director from Academia Tica - Nov 24, 2022
FAQ about Academia Tica, San Jose
- Are there any cultural activities or opportunities to immerse yourself in Costa Rica at Academia Tica Costa Rica?“Academia Tica in Costa Rica has a bunch of cultural activities and immersion opportunities designed to make your Spanish learning experience even better. These activities are open to all students and are conducted in Spanish to help you practise your language skills in real-life situations.
Cultural and Social Activities:
Latin Dance Classes: Learn popular dances such as Salsa, Merengue, and Cumbia.
Latin American Cinema: Explore films from the region to gain cultural insights.
Tropical Fruit Classes and Tastings: Discover and taste various tropical fruits native to Costa Rica.
Tropical Cocktail Classes and Tastings: Learn to prepare traditional Costa Rican cocktails.
Costa Rican Cooking Lessons: Participate in cooking sessions to prepare local dishes.
Nightlife Tours: Experience the local nightlife and social scenes.
Ping-Pong Tournaments: Engage in friendly competitions with fellow students.
Educational Games in Spanish: Participate in games designed to enhance language skills.
Excursions and Visits:
Canopy and Adventure Tours: Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the rainforest.
Mountain Hikes: Explore natural landscapes in areas like Coronado or Jacó.
Horseback Riding: Discover the countryside on horseback.
San José City Tours: Learn about the capital city's history and culture.
Museum Visits: Explore museums such as the Gold and Jade Museums.
Plantation Tours: Visit coffee, banana, pineapple, and cacao plantations.
Volcano Tours: Visit Poás and Irazú Volcanoes.
Indigenous Community Visits: Experience the culture of the Quitirrisí community.
National Park Visits: Explore Braulio Carrillo National Park.
Waterfall Gardens: Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
Whitewater Rafting: Engage in rafting adventures on local rivers.
”Maksym Sterpul, Language Travel Consultant from LanguageCourse.Net - Feb 21, 2025 - I'm 64 and I'm not sure whether I'd like to live in a student residence or with a family. Whatever the option, ideally I'd like to have my own bathroom as well as a private room. As for the food, I'd like more information. I eat everything but don't really like legumes (beans).“For your age, perhaps accommodation with a host family might be more suitable? This is the option we recommend to our older students who want to discover the daily life of the locals and share a little of their culture. What's more, the student residence does not have a private bathroom.
It would therefore be preferable to stay with a host family with a private bathroom (you will need to check the price with the school). Food: no problem. Families can accommodate different diets at no extra cost. In general, the meals are simple, but the host mums like to offer dishes that students like, many Costa Rican staples, but they can also cook other things.”Manuel, Director from Academia Tica - Sep 19, 2024 - Can you please provide me with some information about the teachers? Are they good?“All of the school's teachers hold university degrees in Spanish Education, Philology, or Linguistics from either the University of Costa Rica or the National University. All teachers have at least five years of experience teaching Spanish as a second language. We are proud to say that all instructors are not only highly professional but also very friendly.”Maksym Sterpul, Language Travel Consultant from LanguageCourse.Net - Jan 26, 2024
- What about the safest way to make payments in Costa Rica? Can I pay using a credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or a traveller's cheque?“If you're wondering about the safest way to make payments in Costa Rica, I'd recommend using a credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or traveller's cheques. You'll be happy to know that credit cards are accepted at almost all stores and restaurants, while traveller's cheques can be exchanged for cash at any bank. These methods are not only safe but also cost-effective.
If you need cash, many of our students use ATM cards to withdraw money but keep in mind that there are limited ATM machines outside the city.”Maksym Sterpul, Language Travel Consultant from LanguageCourse.Net - Jan 26, 2024 - Which countries are students of Academia Tica from?The highest Nationality percentage at Academia Tica comes from USA with a 17% representation, followed by students from Germany (13%) and Switzerland (11%).
- Academia Tica offers courses for which ages?Academia Tica offers courses from 16 years to 99. Average age is 22 during the summer and 25 for the rest of the year.
Terms of Academia Tica
First day of course
Written and oral level test is performed. Students should arrive at 7:45
Payment methods accepted for payments made directly to the school
Legal name/parent company
Dialogo-Academia Tica S.A. | Tax registration ID: 3-101-216164
Visa Documents
Nationals from USA do not require a visa to study short term courses up to 180 days.
Check visa requirements for nationals from other countries.Nationals from countries that require a visa will receive documents from the school, related to booking confirmation, which is required for the visa application.
Full payment of all fees required before school dispatches documents required for visa application
No
Express shipment fee (via courier)
30 US$
Preferential cancellation terms in case of visa refusal
School agreed that students booking online on this site will benefit from preferential cancellation fees in case of visa refusal, and in this case will never exceed EUR 180.
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1.302 reviews
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How the school data is collected and measures taken to ensure data accuracy
Academia Tica San Jose | 16 Uncensored Reviews
https://www.languagecourse.net/school-academia-tica-san-jose.php3
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San Jose
San Jose city attractiveness rated by our students:
3.5
More information about San Jose including climate data and events on our San Jose page with a list of all 8 Spanish schools in San Jose.
This programme consists of 20 group lessons and 10 semiprivate lessons.