Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in San Jose

San Jose, is a vibrant city that has become a hub for expats and digital nomads from around the world. With its tropical climate, rich culture, and friendly locals, it's no wonder that many international families are drawn to this Central American gem. Catering to the educational needs of expat children, San Jose and its neighboring towns offer a variety of international and bilingual schools. Among the most popular are the British School of Costa Rica and the Lincoln School, both known for their high-quality education and diverse student bodies.

British School of Costa Rica

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): San Jose
Website: www.thebritishschoolofcostarica.com

The British School of Costa Rica provides a British-style education and follows the English National Curriculum, offering IGCSE and A-Level qualifications. With state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields, the school emphasizes a holistic approach to education. Extracurricular activities are abundant, ranging from music and drama to a variety of sports and clubs. The school is known for its multicultural environment, with students from over 30 different nationalities.

Lincoln School

Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Santo Domingo, Heredia
Website: www.lincoln.ed.cr

Lincoln School is a prestigious institution offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students from nursery to 12th grade. Located in the beautiful town of Santo Domingo, just a short drive from San Jose, the school boasts impressive facilities, including a library, auditorium, and sports complex. Lincoln School is committed to fostering a global mindset and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities to support student development.

Country Day School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Escazu
Website: www.cds.ed.cr

Country Day School is another excellent option for expat families, offering an American-style education with accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The school's curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and it prides itself on its diverse student body, representing over 40 nationalities. Country Day School's campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art rooms, and sports facilities, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

Blue Valley School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Escazu
Website: www.bluevalley.ed.cr

Located in the upscale area of Escazu, Blue Valley School offers a bilingual education with an emphasis on the American curriculum, while also incorporating the Costa Rican Ministry of Education requirements. The school is known for its rigorous academic program, which includes the IB Diploma for high school students. With a focus on technology integration, Blue Valley School provides a forward-thinking education, complete with excellent extracurricular opportunities in arts, sports, and community service.

Marian Baker School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): San Ramon de Tres Rios
Website: www.marianbakerschool.com

Marian Baker School is set in a serene, natural environment, offering a peaceful setting for education. The school follows a U.S.-based curriculum and is accredited by AdvancED. It emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Facilities include science and computer labs, a library, and sports areas. The school's commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness is also a key part of its educational philosophy.

Pan-American School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): San Antonio de Belen
Website: www.panam.ed.cr

The Pan-American School offers a bilingual, multicultural education with a focus on the IB program. The school's mission is to develop ethical, global citizens through a curriculum that encourages community service and environmental stewardship. With modern facilities, including a performing arts center and sports fields, the Pan-American School provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in a globalized world.

European School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): San Pablo de Heredia
Website: www.europeanschool.com

The European School is unique in its approach to education, offering a trilingual program in English, Spanish, and French. The school follows the Costa Rican curriculum along with the IB Primary Years and Diploma Programs. The campus is designed to foster a close-knit community, with facilities that support a variety of academic and extracurricular activities. The European School is known for its commitment to academic excellence and cultural diversity.