One community.  One high school.  One big family!

We are committed to the needs of our visiting students, so they feel comfortable, cared for, and engaged in our community. A true immersion experience is challenging, you will be joining a new community and adapting to our way of living. We make it a fun transition by connecting you to local youth activities . Everyday is unique with plenty to do and see. Interaction is the key to building your "Spanish" people skills.

Why Parents trust us?

• We follow through on supervision,  safety and support.
• Teacher, parent recommended program.
• Individual needs and support, (not a group packaged tour)
• Active, In-country Director  - (no third party tour managers)
• High school only, high school appropriate boundaries.
• Great reputation in the community and schools.
• Program doctor, overseas emergency medical,  
• 1:3 staff to student ratio.

We know you're ready for a true immersion! 

Our  true immersion experience is unique in that it focuses on the  individual needs of teenage language learners. Through community, family and youth dynamics, students gain the confidence to interact in all aspects of community life. This intimate experience with our community will impact forever their view of the world and their future in it. Students develop valuable skills in language, culture, personal awareness and life experience.  

Our Leadership

Program Director, Ilba Prego began coordinating high school exchanges to Central America in 1998.  A native of Granada, Nicaragua. She created the first Nicaragua/Costa Rica exchange program back in 2006. In 2017, Ilba partnered with the City of Tilaran to coordinate a high school exchange with its two local high schools. Ilba brings 30 years of study abroad and youth development experience to the Costa Rica Youth Exchange. She and her staff supervise every aspect of the program. Feel free to contact her with your questions.

Contact the Director