Universities in Costa Rica

Explore top-rated universities and colleges in Costa Rica. Discover rankings, campus details, and key information about top Costa Rican higher education institutions to help you choose the best place to study.

Costa Rica is home to 67 universities and colleges listed in our directory, spread across 9 cities. Of these, 10 are public and 26 are private institutions. The highest-ranked institution is Universidad de Costa Rica (world rank #1384). The oldest dates back to 1921. Use the filters to compare them by ranking, campus setting, and control type.

Universities

Cities

Public

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

How many universities are there in Costa Rica?

Our directory lists 67 universities and colleges in Costa Rica across 9 cities. You can filter them by control type, campus setting, and more.

Which is the top-ranked university in Costa Rica?

Based on world ranking, Universidad de Costa Rica is the highest-ranked institution in Costa Rica in our directory (world rank #1384).

Are there public and private universities in Costa Rica?

Yes. Costa Rica has 10 public and 26 private institutions in our directory. Public universities are typically state-funded, while private institutions are independently run.

How do I choose the right university in Costa Rica?

Compare institutions by world and country ranking, location, campus setting (urban, suburban, or rural), and control type. Open any university profile for detailed admission information, programs, and fees.

What is the difference between an urban and a rural campus?

An urban campus sits in or near a city, putting internships, public transport, and cultural life within easy reach, though living costs are often higher. A rural or suburban campus offers a quieter, community-focused environment with more space and typically lower costs. Use the Campus Type filter to match the setting to your lifestyle.

Top Universities in Costa Rica

See all

Search Filters Clear Filters

67 universities found

Universidad de Costa Rica

San José, Alajuela, Costa Rica

Universities in Costa Rica

Frequently Asked Questions

How many universities are there in Costa Rica?

Which is the top-ranked university in Costa Rica?

Are there public and private universities in Costa Rica?

How do I choose the right university in Costa Rica?

What is the difference between an urban and a rural campus?

Top Universities in Costa Rica

Universidad de Costa Rica

Universidad Católica de Costa Rica

Universidad La Salle Costa Rica

Universidad Internacional San Isidro Labrador

University of Ibero-America

Free School of Law University

Tropical Agriculture Research and Higher Education Centre

National Technical University

University Saint Paula

Universidad Magister

Universidad Fundepos

Universidad Continental de las Ciencias las Artes

International Christian University

Universidad Creativa

Universidad Libre de Costa Rica

Veritas University

Universidad Florencio del Castillo

Universidad Centroamericana de Ciencias Sociales

Universidad de las Ciencias y el Arte de Costa Rica

Universidad Tecnológica Costarricense

Business University of Costa Rica

Universidad Metropolitana Castro Carazo

Universidad Santa Lucía

Universidad Juan Pablo II

Helpful Resources

Explore Universities in Other Countries

Featured Tools

IELTS Score Calculator

TOEFL iBT Calculator

PTE Score Calculator

Duolingo English Test

Latest Articles

Common Wire Transfer Mistakes That Delay or Lose a Tuition Payment

Authorized User Status and Credit Builder Loans for International Students

Loan and Payment Options for Part-Time, Non-Degree and Pathway Program International Students

When to Convert Your Home Currency to Dollars Before a US Tuition Deadline

How Grad Schools Weigh Test Scores Against GPA and Experience

Part-Time Work Rules for Vietnamese Students in Japan Under the Student Visa

Pick up where you left off