Costa Rica's Education

Education is an integral part of the Costa Rican culture with elementary and high-schools in every community as well as four state-funded universities and many more private tertiary schools throughout the country. English language private schools are also available to students of all ages.

Elementary through High School

Elementary school has 6 year levels and high school has 5 year levels. Each level is divided in two cycles and upon completion of each cycle, students are required to pass tests on all subjects studied during those years. The culminating exams are the Bachillerato Tests, which are required to obtain the high school diploma needed for admission to the Universities.

Literacy in Costa Rica

Due to the strong democratic system which promotes equal opportunity, the vast majority of Costa Rica's populace is well educated and middle-class. In fact, Costa Rica has one of the highest standards of living in Central America. Costa Rica’s population has a literacy rate of 95%, one of the highest in Central America.