Universidad Latina de Costa Rica – School of Medicine

The San Pedro campus is an urban hub equipped with some of the most advanced medical training technology in Central America.

• Center for Health Innovation: A state-of-the-art facility featuring a high-fidelity Simulation Hospital where students practice in controlled, realistic environments (ER, ICU, and OR) using advanced mannequins.
• Maersk-Level Labs: Modern laboratories for Histology, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, along with a comprehensive Anatomy lab utilizing both traditional and digital dissection tools.
• Cintana/ASU Partnership: Through its alliance with Arizona State University, students have access to global resources, bilingual content, and international research opportunities.
• Central Library: A robust physical and digital library offering access to specialized medical databases and international journals.
• Urban Connectivity: Located in the "university city" of San Pedro, students are within walking distance of cafes, bookstores, and major public transport routes.

ULatina maintains strong agreements with both public and private health sectors for clinical rotations.

• CCSS Network: Students perform rotations in the hospitals of the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), the national public health system renowned for its high standards and universal coverage.
• Clinical Sites: Major teaching sites include Hospital Calderón Guardia, Hospital México, and various specialized pediatric and women's health centers.
• Global Health Exposure: The school emphasizes community medicine and primary care, allowing students to work in rural "EBAIS" clinics to understand public health in different social contexts.

ULatina uses a trimester-based billing system. Fees for international students are generally higher than for local citizens.

Scholarships

• Merit Scholarships: Available for students with exceptional academic performance (GPA 80/100 or higher).
• ASU Global Incentives: Competitive scholarships for students participating in international exchange or dual-degree initiatives through the Cintana Alliance.
• Financial Agreements: The university offers flexible payment plans to distribute trimester costs into monthly installments.

• The Vibe: San José is a bustling metropolitan center. San Pedro is the academic heart of the city, known for its nightlife ("Calle de la Amargura") and cultural diversity.
• Climate: A "perpetual spring" climate with temperatures usually between 18°C and 26°C.
• Connectivity:
• Air: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is about 30–40 minutes away.
• Transport: Extensive bus network and a commuter train that connects San Pedro with other major cities like Cartago and Heredia.

• Housing: While the university does not have traditional "dorms," the San Pedro area is filled with private student residences and shared apartments (apartaestudios) catering to the ULatina community.
• Multicultural Community: With students from over 20 nationalities, the campus is a melting pot of Latin American and international cultures.
• Student Organizations: Active medical student associations organize health fairs, academic congresses, and social events like "Semana de la Salud."
• Dining: Several on-campus cafeterias offer traditional Costa Rican "Casados" and international food options.

• Degree Recognition: Graduates are eligible to take the USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and the Costa Rican National Medical Exam required for local practice.
• Spanish Language: Non-native speakers must demonstrate proficiency, as clinical interactions with patients in the CCSS hospitals are strictly in Spanish.