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Costa Rica, San Jose
Let the school know you're thinking of applying — they can share their prerequisites and help you through the process.
It's best to ask — circumstances can change at any time.
Step 1 — Application: Fill out the application form with all required information and email it to [email protected]. Include the child's birth certificate, passport or national ID, and a recent photo. For Pre-K to 1st grade, include hearing and vision test results and any nutrition/development/physical assessments; for 1st grade and above, include transcripts from the last two years and a teacher recommendation. Core classes in English are taught by native-speakers.
Step 2 — Visit Day and Academic Assessment: After the application and documents are received, the student will be scheduled for a Visit Day. During the Visit Day, the student participates in classroom activities and completes the corresponding academic assessments according to their grade level. The assessments help the Admissions Committee evaluate readiness and fit for Lighthouse's program. The process aims to provide a thorough understanding of the student's strengths and needs.
Step 3 — Parent Interview: After the Visit Day, parents or guardians participate in a virtual interview with a member of the Admissions Committee. The interview covers the student's prior experiences and goals for schooling. It also provides an opportunity to discuss the family's expectations and Lighthouse's values. The Admissions Committee uses this information to inform next steps.
Step 4 — Decision: The Admissions Committee reviews all documentation, assessment results, and interview notes. Families are then formally notified of the decision. Notifications may include conditions for admission and guidance on enrollment.
Step 5 — Enrollment: If admitted, the parent or guardian completes the enrollment agreement and pays the corresponding tuition and fees to secure the student's place. Enrollment confirms the student's place for the upcoming term. The enrollment terms and deadlines are outlined in the enrollment agreement.
Step 6 — Tuition & Fees: Half-year payments receive a 5% discount; yearly payments receive a 10% discount. An entrance fee of $1,000 per family is charged for first-year enrollment and is not refundable. There is a 20% discount for the 3rd and 4th children. Tuition costs for the 2025-2026 school year are available on the Tuition & Fees page.
Lighthouse International School is an independent private, college-preparatory school in Costa Rica that serves students from ages 3 to 18. The curriculum combines an American-pattern education with IB Diploma Programme options and a bespoke program, including a High School path that awards the U.S. High School Diploma and the Costa Rican MEP diploma while offering the IB Diploma Programme in grades 11–12. Core subjects are taught in English by native-speaking teachers, with Spanish instruction to support bilingual growth; the primary language of instruction is English. The school emphasizes inquiry, leadership and character development within a Christ-centered environment. Founded in 2008, Lighthouse is accredited by the Ministerio de Educación Pública and authorized to offer the IB Diploma Programme, affiliated with the International Baccalaureate Organization. The program runs Preschool through IB, with Applied Technology from Pre‑K to 8th grade and a STEM Fair, plus arts, music, sports, service learning and daily Community Time devoted to spiritual reflection.
