Our Gap Year & Semester courses are for high school graduates aged 17 and older. We see a variety of participants on course—those who just graduated high school looking to do a gap year, students in college enrolling on a semester abroad, participants well past their student years looking to make a change in their life, and more.

Tuition includes all room and board, technical gear, course activities, and in-country transportation. Airfare to/from Costa Rica is not included in the listed tuition cost, nor are personal supplies. Technical gear provided by Outward Bound Costa Rica varies by course, but includes surfboards, masks, fins, scuba gear, life vests, 80L backpacks, duffle bags, tents, sleeping bags, meal kits, etc.

We accept tuition payments by credit card, check, or wire transfer. Full payment is due 30 days prior to course start date.

All of our courses are taught in English, so there is no Spanish language requirement. There will, however, be ample opportunities for participants to practice their Spanish with our instructors and many local people you will meet and volunteer with along the way.

After submitting an Enrollment Form, the best way to find out to schedule a meeting with your study abroad or academic advisor to discuss your plan to either obtain transferable credit from Western Colorado University or creating an Independent Study with your university.  You may additionally earn this credit on a gap year by directly registering with Western Colorado University. Visit the following page for details.

You can earn from 3-7 certifications depending on which you choose—we have three Gap Year & Semester courses open every Fall and Spring. See our individual course pages for specific certification details.

If you have already achieved your advanced scuba certification, we can offer specialist certifications such as NAUI Underwater Environment and NAUI Underwater Ecologist. 

During the hiking phase of course, participants will separate from each other, staying within close range to the instructors, to be alone — or solo — for a period of time. Most people use this time for reflection, relaxation, as well as a time to use all the technical skills they have learned. This is not a survival test. Participants will not be dropped into a remote area. Participants will be given shelter, food, water and a journal to help them record and reflect while alone. The Solo sites will be chosen by the instructors, who will find a place that is both secluded and within an appropriate distance from the group for safety. The length of a Solo is determined by course, weather and group dynamics.

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