Study Abroad in Ecuador

  Ecuador

• Quito: 
Quito
• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Cuenca,  Ibarra,  Ambato

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Dates: year/13th year abroad: late August- early July; semester/ 13th year abroad semester: January- early July, late August- late January; Discover Ecuador summer: late June- early August

Description: When you choose to live in Ecuador, you choose a country that straddles the equator and is home to the descendants of the great Inca empire. Discover this rich heritage as a YFU exchange student and you will understand Ecuadorian culture as few visitors do.

Among a population of 13 million, Ecuador's indigenous peoples have maintained a strong cultural identity and are known for beautiful textiles and ceramics. You'll notice the Spanish cultural influence in Quitos beautiful colonial churches, which have been well-preserved.

What you might enjoy most about Ecuadorian culture is the haunting Andean music, distinctive for two reasons: the pre-Columbian instruments and the musical scale, which is different than the one were familiar with in the US.

As a YFU student in Ecuador, you may find yourself in a large host family since the average family size is five. As in many Latin American countries, family bonds are strong and members gather often to celebrate.

Adventure and language course programs as well as year and semester options are available in over 35 countries.

Highlights: Discover Ecuador Summer Program:

If ecology, biology, anthropology, or Spanish fascinates you, join other YFU participants from around the world in this six-week program in Ecuador. You'll live with and enjoy getting to know your Ecuadorian host family. Living with a family gives you a chance to explore and understand another culture as an insider.

You may take day trips to places like the colonial section of Quito, hike up to volcanoes, visit the colorful Indian market at Otavalo, or attend cultural performances, such as a ballet with folklore music. Included in your program is a three-day tour of the northern rainforest. Activities include canoeing and observing monkeys, reptiles, exotic plants, and other wildlife in the region. Students will also learn about the rainforest from trained local guides.

Summer students may also opt to take a five-day tour of the Galapagos Islands for an additional fee.

Academic Programs:

Students take 13 to 14 courses related to their career goals. Most YFU students choose social studies, but you may choose another area of specialization. Ecuadorian students usually study English so you may make friends by having them help you with Spanish and by helping them with English.

A good way to meet people is to participate in extracurricular activities. Schools often offer institutes you can join for a fee to learn music, attend language classes, or participate in sports.

Students have the option of spending one month (usually in June) doing social work in needed areas of each region.

In addition, you may opt to take a five-day tour of the Galapagos Islands for an additional fee. You'll travel by boat and have an opportunity to see the islands' many natural wonders.

Adventure and language course programs as well as year and semester options are available in over 35 countries.

Cost in US$: Inquire for more information

Participants Travel to Ecuador in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Letters of Reference
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home
• Alumni Network

Youth For Understanding USA's Mission Statement: Youth For Understanding (YFU) prepares young people for their responsibilities and opportunities in a changing, interdependent world.

Year Founded: YFU in 1951