| Term | Year | App Deadline | Decision Date | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | 2027 | 05/01/2027 | 05/01/2027 | 08/17/2027 | 11/07/2027 |
| Spring | 2028 | 11/01/2027 | 11/01/2027 | 01/11/2028 | 04/03/2028 |
| Language of Instruction: | English | Minimum GPA: | 2.5 |
|---|
Your Ecology + Sustainability program in Monteverde lasts 12 weeks and is designed for you to engage with the world's most pressing environmental challenges in a local context. You will enroll in a combination of sustainability- and discipline-focused CIEE courses and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU, to develop your understanding of the ecological, social, economic, and political contexts of environmental sustainability in Monteverde. Enhance your experience with cross-disciplinary co-curricular and extracurricular activities related to sustainability and the environment. Live and learn in Monteverde!
and witness the breathtaking views of both the Caribbean slope and the Pacific Ocean
to discover the nocturnal wonders, from glowing fungi to elusive wildlife
in a highly biodiverse region while gaining practical experience in ecological research
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 provides an inspiring environment for students. Whether you are majoring in environmental science, sustainability, ecology, conservation biology, or tourism management, Monteverde is an ideal destination to study abroad.
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.
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Monteverde will open doors for you to explore Costa Rica’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of excursions and activities:
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.
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.
Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
View CIEE's program page for additional academic information, eligibility requirements, and courses.
Monteverde provides an engaging work environment focused on sustainable agriculture, conservation, ecotourism, and community initiatives. Most jobs promote environmental stewardship and biodiversity while offering a unique experience within a small, multicultural community nestled in the Costa Rican cloud forest.
Industry options include:
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.
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.