Independent Study If you would like to go to Mexico or Costa Rica on your own, IUSI will tailor an individual program for you to study Spanish, live with a local family, tour, and learn about the country's culture. We can also connect you with your fellow professionals and/or those sharing your recreational and social interests, and even arrange for you to do volunteer social and environmental work. Our goal is to help you get to know the host culture on its terms, and to succeed in achieving your personal goals for the trip. Along the way we will also point you in the direction of a very good time.  Costa Rica is a country of natural beauty, political stability, friendly people, and a temperate climate. Since dismantling its army in 1948, it has been known around the world as one of the most stable countries in Latin America and has often been a mediator in other Central American conflicts. The relatively small size of the country allows you to explore the beach, jungle and mountains all in one day. IUSI offers independent travelers a wonderful opportunity for immersion through study in San Isidro de Coronado. You receive language instruction from one of the country's best language schools, La Academia Tica, and enjoy this sunny suburb of San Jose, near the southern border of Braulio Carillo National Park. Classes are arranged by language level and limited to no more than 6 students. Housing There are two housing options in Coronado: Excursions Costa Rica boasts an amazing biodiversity, two dazzling coasts, stunning mountains and jungle and more flora and fauna that one could imagine. We will customize your trip to include visits to a breathtaking cloud forests, the Caribbean, the Pacific, Tortuguero National Park, still active volcanoes, organic farms, coffee plantations and more! Costs Enrollment/registration is on a rolling basis throughout the year. Classes begin on Monday and prices are by the week.
The colonial city of Querétaro blends pedestrian walkways, 18th century buildings and intimate plazas with Mexico's vibrant modern growth. Querétaro is a UNESCO world heritage site, renowned for its colonial beauty, as well as an important industrial center for international trade. IUSI offers customized language and cultural immersion experiences in Querétaro for 2 or more people traveling together. You study with an experienced language professor in private lessons for you and your traveling companion. Two weeks is the required minimum program length. IUSI is dedicated to cultural integration and cross-cultural understanding. Housing You will live with a carefully chosen Mexican family. Becoming a part of your Mexican host family is one of the most rewarding aspects of your experience, allowing you a great way to connect with the people, practice your Spanish, and learn about their rich culture. Excursions Weekend or day field trips to other parts of the country can be an integral part of the your stay in Mexico. Mexican history is rich and complex; visit to explore timeless villages, archeological sites, and more. Costs Your Querétaro experience can begin on a rolling basis throughout the year, except July. Prices are by the week, with a minimum of two weeks. For more information about study and travel in Mexico or Costa Rica, please contact Deborah Arrand at deborah@iusi.org or call 800-345-4874 Form Downloads (pdf): • Mexico Independent Study Application • Costa Rica Independent Study Application • Housing Profile Form for Mexico or Costa Rica  If you are interested in additional study abroad opportunities in Central America, we suggest you look into INEPAS, a language school and social services provider in indigenous Guatemala. For more information, please visit http://www.inepas.org |
