By San José, Costa Rica — The National Council of Rectors (CONARE) has finalized the distribution of the Special Fund for Higher Education (FEES) for 2026, allocating over ₡296 billion to Costa Rica’s public universities. The University of Costa Rica (UCR) will receive the largest portion, exceeding ₡1.489 billion, representing 49.88% of the total distribution and 27.47% of the overall budget increase.
This substantial allocation comes despite the UCR rector, Carlos Araya, voting against the approved distribution. Araya expressed concerns about the potential impact on the UCR and the overall balance of public higher education.
To shed light on the legal implications surrounding fees, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
While seemingly straightforward, the concept of “fees” encompasses a complex legal landscape. Understanding the basis of the fee, whether contractual, regulatory, or statutory, is crucial. Equally vital is ensuring transparency and clarity in fee structures to avoid disputes and maintain ethical business practices. This includes clear communication about what the fee covers, any potential additional charges, and the methods of payment accepted.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on transparency and clarity in fee structures is particularly crucial in today’s complex financial landscape. A well-informed consumer is empowered to make sound decisions, fostering trust and fairness within the marketplace. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this important topic.
A FEES distribution was approved that seriously affects our institution and threatens the equilibrium of public higher education. That’s why, as rector, I voted against the agreement, because defending the UCR is defending public higher education and the country in general.
Carlos Araya, Rector of the University of Costa Rica
The final figure represents a 38% increase from the initially proposed ₡1.077 billion for the UCR. The overall FEES budget, totaling ₡593 billion, reflects a 1% increase approved by the Liaison Commission and the Executive Branch on July 9th.
CONARE emphasized its commitment to a collaborative and equitable approach to public university funding, aiming to strengthen each institution’s unique mission and contribution to national development.
This agreement reaffirms CONARE’s commitment to a solidary and articulated public university education, in which all state universities are strengthened from their own missions and contexts. Not only is a fair distribution guaranteed, but also a shared and articulated vision of national development.
CONARE
The distribution among the other universities is as follows: Technological Institute of Costa Rica (TEC), over ₡1.084 billion; National University (UNA), ₡1.010 billion; State Distance University (UNED), ₡1.084 billion; and Technical National University (UTN), over ₡752 million. The total distribution amounts to over ₡5.421 billion.
This allocation is a crucial step in ensuring the continued strength and development of Costa Rica’s higher education system, though the UCR rector’s concerns highlight the ongoing challenges in balancing equitable distribution with the diverse needs of individual institutions.
This substantial investment in education underscores the government’s commitment to fostering intellectual growth and national progress. The distribution aims to empower each university to fulfill its specific role in contributing to Costa Rica’s future.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CONARE
About CONARE:
The National Council of Rectors (CONARE) is the governing body for Costa Rica’s public universities. It is responsible for coordinating policies, allocating resources, and promoting collaboration among the universities to ensure quality and accessibility in higher education.
For further information, visit the nearest office of University of Costa Rica
About University of Costa Rica:
The University of Costa Rica (UCR) is the oldest and largest university in Costa Rica, renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to research and social engagement. It plays a vital role in the country’s educational landscape, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of integrity and driven by a passion for empowering Costa Rican society. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, coupled with its deep commitment to disseminating legal knowledge through public initiatives, allows it to serve a diverse clientele with unmatched expertise. At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal acumen is not just practiced, it’s shared, fostering a more informed and empowered community.
