Lighthouse International School
Christian, Founded 2008
Updated July 2026
IB Diploma
Lighthouse International School is an independent, college-preparatory school in Costa Rica that provides a comprehensive academic foundation within a vibrant, Christ-centered environment. It serves students from preschool through high school, focusing on character education and the development of the whole child.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Lighthouse International School is a private, Christ-centered institution dedicated to developing the whole child—spiritually, intellectually, physically, emotionally, and socially. The school aims to partner with parents to foster character, values, and a clear moral compass, guiding students to become productive and influential citizens. Its educational approach is rooted in the belief that healthy relationships are the foundation for learning and spiritual growth.
Programmes
The academic program spans from Preschool to Grade 12, incorporating a dual-diploma path (U.S. and Costa Rican MEP) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for Grades 11 and 12. The curriculum includes core subjects such as Mathematics, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish, alongside specialized courses in Technology, Music, Art, and Physical Education. High school students engage in rigorous studies including Literature, Research Writing, Economics, Global Politics, and Physics, while younger students focus on inquiry-driven learning, STEM, and core values.
Outcomes
Graduates earn a dual-diploma, consisting of a U.S. High School Diploma and a Costa Rican MEP diploma, with the option to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The school reports a high graduation rate and prepares students for higher education through a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and character development. Alumni are encouraged to influence their communities with intelligence, confidence, integrity, and kindness.
Student support
Learning support
The school requests reports of any academic, psychological, or standardized tests, as well as documentation of any accommodations, during the admissions process. This information is reviewed by the Admissions Committee to ensure the school can meet the student's needs.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Lighthouse International School offer?
- Lighthouse International School offers IB Diploma.
- How much is tuition at Lighthouse International School?
- Annual tuition at Lighthouse International School is $6.4K–$10.1K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Lighthouse International School hold?
- Lighthouse International School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Lighthouse International School co-educational?
- Lighthouse International School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Lighthouse International School located?
- Lighthouse International School is an international school in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Prekinder - Kinder (half day) | 3–5 | $6.4K |
| Prekinder - Kinder (full day) | 3–5 | $7.8K |
| Preparatory | 5–6 | $8.6K |
| 1st-5th grade | 6–11 | $9.4K |
| 6th-8th grade | 11–14 | $10.1K |
| 9th-12th grade | 14–18 | $10.1K |
Source:PDFLIS-APPLICATION-FORM-ENGLISH.pdfPDFTuition-costs-2026-2027.pdf
Other fees(5)
| Enrolment fee· Annual Enrollment Fee: $588 for PreK-Kinder half day, $721 for PreK-Kinder full day, $798 for Preparatory, $873 for 1st-5th grade, $931 for 6th-12th grade | — |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· One-time entrance fee per family for the 1st year enrollment (non-refundable) | $1K |
| Uniform· Uniform items range from ₡10,000 to ₡19,300 | — |
| Bus / transport· Monthly bus service ranges from ₡70,000 to ₡110,000 depending on the route (paid for 10 months) | — |
| Meals· Daily lunch: ₡2,500 for PreK-Kinder, ₡3,200 for Prep-5th grade, ₡3,700 for 6th-12th grade and adults | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 20%
- Full-payment discount: 10%
- Full-payment discount: 5%
Admissions
The admissions process begins with the submission of an application form, student identification, vaccination records, and previous academic transcripts or teacher recommendations. Applicants are then scheduled for a Visit Day, which includes classroom participation and grade-level academic assessments. Following a virtual parent interview, the Admissions Committee reviews all materials to make a final decision. Once admitted, families complete an enrollment agreement and pay the required tuition and fees to secure a place.
Calendar
The school office operates Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuition payment options include half-year and yearly plans, which offer 5% and 10% discounts, respectively.
About the campus
The campus provides a safe and active environment designed to support academic and personal growth. While specific building details are not listed, the school maintains facilities to support its comprehensive academic, arts, and physical education programs. Prospective families are encouraged to take a tour to learn more about the school's physical environment and services.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of leadership and enrichment programs, including the Student Council (STUCO), the National Honor Society (NHS), and Model United Nations (MUN). Additionally, the school offers Discipleship Groups (D-groups), where trained student leaders provide mentorship to younger peers based on Biblical principles. The school also emphasizes participation in interscholastic sports and community service initiatives.
Carlos ZelayaDirectorThe Director is committed to fostering a safe and active environment where healthy relationships support academic learning, friendship, and faith. They are dedicated to ensuring the school's vision and mission are effectively upheld and carried out.