AFS Intercultural Programs: Ecuador High School and Gap-Year Programs

  Ecuador

• Other Cities in Ecuador: 
Guayaquil
• Quito: 
Quito

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Dates: Year High School (Fall): Aug. 2010- June 2011; Semster High School (Fall): Sept. 2010- Jan. 2011; Short Summer Program: Jul. 2010- Aug. 2010

Description: Ecuador is one of the most fascinating destinations in South America with its array of vibrant cultures, historical colonial architecture, volcanic landscapes, and dense rainforest - all in a nation no bigger than Nevada! The country's ethnic diversity extends from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon. Traditional arts, textiles, and ceramics tell the story of an Ecuadorian culture that dates from around 3200 B.C. and still holds on to its traditions. Four distinct regions - the highlands, coastal areas, rainforest, and the famous Galapagos Islands (where Darwin studied and wrote about evolution) - all make Ecuador an exciting country for you to discover while perfecting your Spanish and making friends. AFS host family placements are located throughout Ecuador.

Highlights:
Year and Semester:

You'll probably attend a single-gender school where you may study up to 13 subjects from a standard curriculum. Ecuadorian society values family and friendship, so your host family will welcome your participation in daily activities. Hanging out with friends and family is also a great way to further perfect your Spanish language skills. You'll meet other AFS Participants at orientations, and possibly take part in an optional trip to the Galápagos Islands at an additional cost.

Year program students are placed throughout Ecuador, while all semester students will be placed in and around Guayaquil.

The year programs does accept recent high school graduates.

Short Summer Homestay:

This program is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lifestyle and culture of Ecuador. Enjoy your summer while living with a family in culturally diverse Ecuador. Explore the mountains and participate in community life by getting involved in sports and artistic endeavors. Participants in this program will be placed in and around Quito, the capital city of Ecuador.

Cost in US$: Year: (USD 9,750); Semester: (USD 8,750); Short Summer: (USD 6,500)

This Program is open to American Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

AFS Intercultural Programs/USA's Mission Statement: AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. AFS Intercultural Programs is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board.

Year Founded: 1947