CDS is an American School serving an international population. Country Day School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools in the United States, and by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education. Focusing on the American High School Diploma and a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, the curriculum also prepares students for the Costa Rican Bachillerato examinations.

Over 90% of graduates each year are admitted to selective U.S. and Canadian universities and colleges. See the college counselor's page for information on our most recent graduates.

The four hectare campus is located in the hills of Escazu, about seven kilometers from downtown San Jose. The campus moved to its current site in the 1980's and includes well-equipped classrooms, two libraries, three computer labs with both Macs and PCs, a campus-wide wireless network, a large gym and a separate covered play area in the middle school, modern science labs, sports fields, a swimming pool, 3 art rooms, band and chorus rooms, and a cafeteria/auditorium for school performances. Take a photo tour of our campus on the website.

CDS offers a full sports program and many after school activities for all students of all ages. Basketball, soccer, and volleyball are the most popular competitive sports. Student council, National Honor Society, environmental and service clubs, music and drama, newspaper and yearbook, and overnight class trips to Costa Rica's amazing national parks provide a well-rounded extracurricular program. See the pages for sports, music and extracurricular programs on this website.

Bus service is available to students living in the western San Jose area. A late bus runs after sports and other extracurricular activities. Bus fees are set annually and are billed monthly. See the page for transportation on this website.

General school supplies, consumable workbooks and textbooks are included in school fees. There are no lab, computer, art, or locker fees. Band instruments are available for rental. Students are required to purchase the school uniform and P.E. uniform. See the page for school fees and financial information on this website.

The mission of CDS is complemented by the CDS Educational Development Association, the non-profit arm of the school which funds scholarships for local students, encourages student community service opportunities, and supports continuing education for local teachers. See the Association's page on this website for more information.

Country Day School shall always do what is necessary to be recognized as a private school under the Costa Rica Ministry of Education. Country Day School shall always do what is necessary to remain continuously accredited by a U.S. regional agency.The primary focus of our educational programs shall be early childhood through grade 12.Nothing shall take precedence over the growth and achievement of Country Day School students. We shall not allow policies, procedures, or behaviors that impede student success. We shall, however, remain fiscally responsible at all times. We shall not tolerate any behavior that threatens the dignity, safety, or self-worth of any individual. CDS shall accept only those students for whom there is a reasonable expectation of success in the educational program.