Costa Rica International Academy

1. CRIA accepts applications from students of all nationalities who would benefit from the program and whose parents share the school's philosophy and objectives. Admission is granted when it has been determined that the school has the appropriate program and resources to meet the learner's needs. Applications for both immediate and future entry are considered at any time throughout the year. If a waiting list for any grade is necessary, qualified applicants will be admitted according to established policies on priority.

2. High School students (grades 9–12) can enroll for a minimum of one semester, while students in Toddler–Grade 8 may enroll for a minimum of one quarter. Applications are accepted year-round, with rolling admissions for Toddler–Grade 8 and waitlists may be used for any grade. Enrollment priority on the waitlist is based on criteria including: child of full-time teaching faculty member; sibling of a currently enrolled student; previously enrolled student, in good standing; full-year enrollment; and order of receipt of a completed application.

3. As a US-accredited college-preparatory school, the primary language of instruction is English for students in Grades 3 and up (dual language Toddler–Grade 2). Basic beginner English Language Learners shall not exceed 25% of any grade level from Grade 3–8. In Grades 9–12, students must be proficient in English to succeed in mainstream classroom subjects. A proficiency English test may be used to determine ELL support eligibility for students needing it.

4. By enrolling, families agree to abide by the policies and procedures explained in the Family Handbook. A seat is not guaranteed until the application is approved by a Division Principal AND the Tuition Fee Deposit and New Student Fee are both paid in full. The school does not discriminate based on religion, ethnicity, race, color, nationality, sex, disability, marriage status, gender, or sexual orientation.

5. Applicants should apply as early as possible; August enrollment requires submission by March 1, and January enrollment requires submission by October 1. Rolling admissions exist for Toddler–Grade 8; High School admissions occur at the beginning of fall or spring semesters. A placement review by the Child Study Team, inclusive of school counselors, division principals, and Learning Support and ELL teachers, is required for students who declare a need for ELL or Learning Support services. The process includes documentation submission, placement decisions by the division principal, and start-date notification. Enrollment is contractual for one year and is not guaranteed in subsequent years.

CRIA may maintain a waitlist for all grade levels when classes are full. Enrollment priorities determine waitlist order: 1) child of a full-time teaching faculty member; 2) sibling of a currently enrolled student; 3) previously enrolled student in good standing; 4) students enrolling for a full year; 5) in the order of receipt of a completed application. Qualified applicants are admitted to available seats according to these priority policies.