Life & The Cost of Living in Havana
Program Costs
Before arriving in Havana, you should budget your anticipated expenses for the entire semester. The budget should take into account spending on transportation, cell phone data, school materials, eating out, cultural and social activities, as well as independent travel.
The budget presented below is approximate and reflects basic expenses – based on previous student experiences – that you should account for in your financial planning. It does not include estimates for personal independent travel outside of Havana nor for social activities, as these expenses will vary widely by each individual student.
Please note that due to economic sanctions against Cuba, it is practically impossible to withdraw cash or use US-issued debit or credit cards. It is also very difficult to transfer hard currency to Cuba. Please plan ahead financially and take as much cash (USD or EUR) with you as you think you will need. If your financial situation allows, bring a little more cash than less, and take back home whatever money you do not spend.
Cost Table
| Expense | Expense Type | Fall 2025 | Spring 2026 |
| Program Fee* | Billed by home institution | Refer to home institution | Refer to home institution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Fee (includes housing, loundry and partial board/breakfast and dinner) | Billed by home institution | $5,200 | $5,200 |
| Health Insurance (this refers to home school insurance; all students are enrolled in Cuban health insurance at no additional cost) | Billed by home institution | Refer to home institution | Refer to home institution |
| Airfare (round-trip flight to Havana; varies depending on departure location) | Direct Student Cost | $1200 | $1200 |
| Partial Board (lunches) | Direct Student Cost | $600 | $800 |
| Baggage Fees*** | Direct Student Cost | varies | varies |
| Personal (estimate varies according to individual spending habits) | Direct Student Cost | $1000 | $800 |
| Local Transport | Direct Student Cost | $300 | $200 |
| Books/Printing | Direct Student Cost | $50 | $50 |
| Immunizations and Medications (if applicable and not covered by insurance) | Direct Student Cost | n/a | n/a |
| Internet/Communication | Direct Student Cost | $220 | $150 |
Program Fee includes: pre-departure and on-site orientations, in-program cultural activities and excursions.
CASA Cuba Withdrawal Policy
Should you who withdraw from the program, you will be charged a non-refundable housing fee according to the following table:
Needs to be updated to CASA wide new withdrawal policy
Housing & Withdrawal Costs
| Withdrawal Date: | Fee: |
| 61+ days prior to the start of the program | 0% of housing cost |
| 60-31 days prior to the start of the program | 50% of housing cost |
| 30-1 day prior to the start of the program | 75% of housing cost |
| Program start date or after | 100% of housing cost |
Student Testimonials
