1. Read
Read the description and general information about the program carefully at: Programs
If you need additional information please contact us at: info@ihcai.org
If you are sure to apply for the program, please go to the next step.
2. Apply
You will find the application online at the first line of each program at Programs.
Be sure to write your email correctly. We can not contact you with a wrong address.
Be sure to send your application when you are finished. You will find the “Send” button at the lower part of the application.
When you submit the application, a message should appear immediately says: Thanks! Your information was sent succefully.
You should receive a confirmation response by email within the next 24 hours. The information in that email should be read carefully. It contains the instructions to continue with the application process: A prior deposit is required, and, in some cases, the submission of documents is mandatory.
If you do not receive a response within 24 hours, a problem has occurred. Please contact us at: info@ihcai.org
3. Deposit (in some cases)
In this step, there are differences in each program, and it is necessary to secure your spot.
The confirmation response gives the instructions to make a previous deposit that can be $250 or $300, depending on the program. This deposit will be made easily and totally safe mode by PayPal online with your credit or debit card. Subscribing to PayPal is optional to make this deposit. The PayPal system automatically generates a receipt for your deposit, you must keep it for your security. After making the deposit you will receive an email from IHCAI confirming the receipt of the funds. If you do not receive this confirmation within 24 hours, please contact us at: info@ihcai.org
Central American students who apply for the P017B program have a different process that is explained in the interview to which they will be cited.
Note: Please be aware that this is not a registration fee, it is an initial deposit of the Tuition Fee. The amount you previously deposit will be debited from the total cost of the program at your arrival.
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IHCAI deposit refund policy reads: IHCAI Institute will refund $150 for all programs where an initial deposit is charged, only when cancelations are done at least one month before the starting date. Applicants may postpone the rotation dates without any extra cost up to one year after the initial application date. New dates are subject to space availability.
4. Documentation (only for clinical rotation programs)
In all cases a copy of your airline ticket will be requested. For clinical rotations it is required by the Costa Rican health system. It is always necessary to properly coordinate your airport transfer.
Additionally, the following documentation is required for P01, P03, P06, P07, P08 & P017A:
- Recommendation letter from an academic tutor of the university, or/and official evaluation form.
- Personal Resume. (In Word format, in Spanish and with a picture of your face)
- Copy of your passport identification page.
- Record vaccine.
- Copy of personal health insurance coverage (a photocopy of your policy) – Your personal health insurance must cover you in Costa Rica and for the duration of your rotation. If you don’t have one, we recommend an international travel health insurance plan with HCC Medical Insurance Services under the following link: International Insurance Products
- Copy of your MD certificate. (Only for residents in P08 program)
- Scanned documents and/or pictures must be legible.
- The documents should be submitted to: info@ihcai.org
5. Travel (of interest to all students traveling to Costa Rica)
In all cases, a copy of your airline ticket will be requested to schedule your arrival in Costa Rica.
Two weeks before your arrival in Costa Rica you will receive an email from IHCAI staff with your housing information and airport transfer instructions. If you do not receive this information, please contact us at: info@ihcai.org
We provide airport pick up and drop off 24/7.
When you arrive at the airport in Costa Rica, we do not recommend changing money at the airport bank, the exchange rate is very inconvenient. Near your house there are banks even open weekend.
Useful information for your travel at: Advise
6. Payment & First day
The remaining of the Tuition Fee can be paid at arrival in Costa Rica with your debit or credit card. PayPal is welcome too. A discount of 3% apply is you paid in cash.
Your host family will be taking you to IHCAI Foundation facilities the first working day of after your arrival. This is for you getting familiar with the public transportation and the IHCAI location.
Also, that day IHCAI staff will be providing general and useful information about the program and the country, safety instructions and you will be completing the registration. IHCAI Foundation staff will be taking you to the bank to assist you with the currency exchange and money drawing. Please bring your original passport with you. If you do not carry a copy of your passport that day, we will help you with one so that the rest of the time you leave your passport at home.