The Language Institute does not provide housing, but your Big Brother/Sister will work closely with you to arrange the kind of housing you desire, so it is important that you make your needs known to him as soon as possible. You can do this by filling out and returning (or faxing) the Big Brother Information Form you received. If you haven't received one, or misplaced it, click the link below.

Living With A Tico Family: Many singles and couples without children choose to live with a Tico family. This is a good way to learn the culture, as well as Spanish. It will add stress to your life, and is not the best situation for everyone. Living arrangements with Tico families can vary greatly in terms of the size of living quarters and amount of privacy. The price you pay includes room and board, and often, a private bath. The average price for an individual is $300 and for a couple $500 a month (prices are subject to change). Please note the definition of "hot water" below.

Renting A House Or Apartment: If you decide to rent a house or apartment your rent will vary according to the size, location, and amenities included. Monthly rent is between $350 and $600+. Houses and apartments usually have tile or wood floors and are furnished with furniture and some major appliances (your Big Brother/Sister will give you the specifics). You may need to rent a washer, and if you wish, a dryer (especially helpful during rainy season).

Hot Water: Hot water heaters are expensive here so generally the definition of "hot water" in a house means the house has cold water, with a small electric heater attached to the shower head.

Distance From The Institute: Houses or apartments nearest to the Institute are generally priced higher and your neighbors are more likely to be "fellow gringos". Singles and families without children might want to consider living further from the Institute for these reasons, but for families with children, living closer to the Institute makes life easier.

HOUSING DEPOSIT

The Institute requires a pre-registration fee to cover processing of your application.  In addition to this, families need to send a $300 housing deposit to the Institute as well. Remember this deposit will be used to cover expenses incurred by your Big Brother/Sister in obtaining housing, picking you up at the airport, phoning or faxing you and stocking your house with some basic food items.  For singles the deposit is $100 and is used for transportation costs for picking you up at the airport, and phone calls or faxes.  The unused portion of this deposit is returned to you. It is imperative that we receive your registration and deposit as soon as possible. In the past there have been some problems with late registrations, and as a result, many Big Brothers/Sisters have had to pay housing deposits out of their own pocket. Consequently, we will not guarantee the services of a Big Brother/Sister if your registration does not arrive at least 6 weeks prior to the first day of classes. 

If you think your information will arrive late please telephone or fax the Institute with your information, and send the deposit check to: Big Brother Coordinator, Spanish Language Institute, SJO - 8609, P. O. Box 025240, Miami, FL 33102.  Allow at least two weeks for the check to arrive at the Language Institute.

If you feel you will not be needing the assistance of a Big Brother/Sister, please let us know. But remember, the Big Brother/Sister will be a valuable resource person even if you do not need them to search for a house. They will also be great help in becoming acquainted with the San Jose area.