Costa Rica, San Jose
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1. Initial Documentation. An applicant and the parents submit an application form and Applying Parent Questionnaire, plus a passport-sized photo, the applicant's birth certificate or passport for non-Costa Rica citizens, IDs for both parents (including mother's maiden name), and a copy of residency status or permit. They also provide formal transcripts from last attending school (minimum of three years) and any evaluations by a specialist if needed. After review of the initial documentation by the Admissions Committee, applicants are notified whether they may continue to Step 2. A $275 application fee must be paid to advance; the fee is deducted from the first tuition payment if the applicant is accepted.
Marian Baker School (MBS) is a private international school in Costa Rican Central Valley serving students aged 2 to 18. The campus overlooks San José and offers English-dominant instruction with Spanish taught across all grades and French introduced early. The school provides the IB Diploma Programme alongside the Cognia High School Diploma and the Costa Rican high school diploma, enabling graduates to pursue colleges worldwide, including the United States and Costa Rica. In addition to the bespoke curriculum and American-style options, MBS emphasizes bilingual literacy and prepares students for diverse paths. Facilities include a gym, a library, a cafeteria, and modern classrooms for middle and high school, with dedicated spaces and campus spaces for efficient movement. Extracurriculars feature Model United Nations, National Honor Society, Student Government, and AASCA sports; arts electives include drama, band, and cinematography. The school is nut-free and promotes wellness through nutrition and physical education for all.