Information for Incoming Exchange Students
Information for Incoming Exchange Students
Thinking about coming to USFQ? Actually coming? Already here? This page is for you!
Last Updated / Actualizado: 31 October, 2007
Don't miss... Recommendations for International Students
CONTENTS
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Thank you for your interest in Universidad San Francisco de Quito. USFQ is a private liberal arts university located in the valley of Cumbayá, about a half hour bus ride from Quito. USFQ annually hosts between 600 international students (250-300 per semester). USFQ believes that academic and cultural exchange plays an important role in personal and intellectual development.
Ecuador is a fantastic country. It has everything -- the Amazon basin, snow-capped volcanoes, amazing beaches, islands, wildlife, rich cultures. Basically, it has every kind of possible adventure you can imagine. It is a developing country, but it is also economically stable, uses the dollar, and is not particularly dangerous (although precautions must be taken). There is much written about Ecuador as an interesting and exotic destination, which you can find on your own. There is also a lot of practical information available toward the end of this web page that you should be sure and read.
There are regular flights from Houston (Continental), Atlanta (Delta), Miami and New York (American and South American airlines). It's about a 5 hour flight from Houston or Miami. Depending on the time of year, you're looking at anywhere from $500 - $1000 to one of those cities. Getting a visa is not very difficult, but there are some things you'll need to know about visas. Flying here is fairly simple.
Most rules, policies and regulations contained in this page consistently apply to all incoming international students; however, there might be some program-specific things you'll need to know that apply to only your college (your college will provide you with this information). And still a few of you reading this page will be coming to USFQ as an independent student un-affiliated with any institution.
USFQ, like Ecuador, is a unique and quite amazing place. In addition to knowing some basic information about USFQ, it is also interesting to consider the impact this educational experiment has had on the country of Ecuador and the USFQ's achievements. You can get both basic information and read about USFQ here.
There are two kinds of international students -- those who are affiliated with an existing partner university, and those who come as independent students on their own.
Students from Partner Universities
International students interested in attending USFQ can apply through one of the established exchange programs we have with universities worldwide. These types of students are usually enrolled at that university, but sometimes students enrolled at a different university (one that is not a direct partner with USFQ) will apply through a university that is. These students come on "exchange" agreements - which means they pay their normal tuition at their home university and do not pay USFQ tuition. Speak with the International Programs Office, or your academic advisor, at your university to find out more about this option.
Students not affiliated with a USFQ partner university can also apply to study directly through USFQ's Office of International Programs. These students temporarily enroll at USFQ and pay USFQ tuition. If you are a student at a university without an exchange agreement, visit the independent students page for more information.
In order to apply, you will need to submit the following documents: application form (pdf document) completed and signed (passport number and email address must be provided); 1-page personal statement explaining the student's reasons for wanting to come to USFQ and personal, academic and professional goals in general; proof of health insurance; official college transcript; certificate of good health; photocopy of first page of passport. Please contact the OIP if you decide to apply, and we will guide you through the process.
See the Important Dates page for deadlines (which are strictly followed).
Criteria for Participation/Requirements
To study for a regular semester on USFQ's Cumbayá Campus, USFQ likes to receive students with a good academic record. However, we defer to the sending university's recommendations. We also require a certain level of Spanish (see the next item, "Spanish Requirements").
LANGUAGE INFORMATION (also see the Studying Spanish at USFQ section)
The OIP itself has a strong recommendation that students coming to USFQ on an exchange program have at least two years of college-level Spanish before arriving (4 semesters, or 6 trimesters). However, the ultimate decision of whether or not a student's Spanish is good enough to study at USFQ is left up to the student and/or the sending university's Office of International Programs. Universities participating in exchanges with USFQ may, or may not, have a policy different than the recommendations made by the USFQ OIP. Consult with your own university's International Programs department for more information.
USFQ has as a basic requirement that its students have a good command of English. Approximately 60% of USFQ's professors were educated in the U.S., and speak English. However, Spanish is required to study at USFQ. Still, Spanish requirements do vary from class to class. Very few classes are entirely in English, but some courses require less advanced levels of Spanish than others. Readings are often in English, especially in advanced courses, but class discussions are normally in Spanish. (Go to this page for a list of courses and specific language requirements.) Normal Ecuadorian USFQ students are required to study English, and the vast majority have studied English at the K-12 level - but they are Ecuadorian and will, of course, be more comfortable in their native tongue. For the international student, the higher his or her level of Spanish, the more course options there are. The bottom line is that the vast majority of the faculty and staff at USFQ also speak English very well, results in an environment where you will hear, and speak, a lot of English.
Don't Speak Spanish?
Aside from a few exceptions (special programs such as GAIAS, Tiputini, and Ceiba Tropical Ecology), in our experience students coming here with no Spanish whatsoever must learn the language, or they won't make it. As mentioned above, we recommend two years of Spanish, but the sending university can make exceptions, if they wish. Be warned that students seeking basic introductory level Spanish often have trouble finding those courses since most students come to USFQ already speaking at an intermediate level and even though they are opened, the basic introductory courses sometimes end up being closed for lack of enrollment. We can, with a little coordination, try to make arrangements to assure something gets opened for students with little Spanish though. The bottom line is that, at a minimum, students coming to USFQ with only basic-level Spanish would need to be highly motivated to improve their Spanish and should have at least a little exposure to Spanish. You can't make it in Ecuador only speaking English.
As was mentioned, most classes are taught in Spanish. However, we do have various courses spread throughout the university in English because students have to take a certain number of classes in English (those courses are distinguished with an "E" by them). They're few, but they do exist. The business school offers many. The engineering department offers very few. Offerings change from semester-to-semester.
There is now a Spanish placement exam administered online. Details will be sent to candidates during the application process. This placement score will help the student determine which classes are right for him or her with regards to Spanish proficiency.
COSTS
Non-Tuition Fees
Administrative Fee: $100
(This fee covers the services of the Office of International Programs, which are assistance with registration,
visa processing, orientation, and general support.)
Home-stay: $1729 (133 days @ $13/day)
Family placement fee: $50
Tuition Costs (waived under bilateral exchange agreements)
Fall 2007: Tuition for up to 16 Credits -- $4,480.
Spring 2008: Tuition for up to 16 Credits -- $4,576
Summer 2007 (visit this web page)
Home-Stays, Costs, & Cancellation Policies
The OIP arranges home-stays with Ecuadorian host families in Quito. Most American universities require students to participate in the homestay program. European students are often not required to participate in the hom-estay program. Some exceptions apply.
Cost of accommodation: $13/day*.
There is also a one-time $50 family placement fee.
The home-stays include breakfast and dinner, laundry service, a private room in the home and the experience of being another member of the family.
Payment: The students pay USFQ, not the family. USFQ will reimburse the family. Arrange your payment plan in advance with Bill Ross before arriving in Quito.
Note: These costs may vary for students placed through their resident directors. If your university has an in-country Resident Coordinator , home-stays are handled by them. Contact them for more information.
Note: Students who receive approval from their home institution to rent an apartment are responsible for making their own arrangements.
* The $13/day home stay fee applies to students staying with a family for two entire months, or more. Students staying with families for irregular periods of time, or for less than 60 days, will be charged $15.00/day.
Total Cost Scenario for 2007-2008 Academic Year
Normal* Fall 2007and spring 2008 program costs, payable to Universidad San Francisco de Quito, are:
Application Fee: $100
Tuition $9,056 ($4,480 fall '07 & $4,576 spring '08)
Family Placement Fee $50 * (if applicable)
Homestay arranged by USFQ - $3,263 ($1,534 fall y $1,729 spring) * (if applicable)
Total Costs $12,469
* Normal tuition costs do not apply to all international students, depending on the agreement between the two universities. If you are coming to USFQ on an agreement with another university, please see your program's agreement details for more information. Similarly, while most international students are housed with host families, there are exceptions, and those exceptions will not be required to pay this fee - or fees may vary.
Notice:
Students assigned to host families are not allowed to move out of the host family's home without notifying the Office of International Programs.
If the student's home university allows students to live on their own (i.e. in an apartment or a house without a host family), the USFQ Office of International Programs requires authorization from an officer at the student's home university's International Programs.
Homestay Contract that Families Sign
All homestay family hosts sign a contract. If you feel your family is not meeting their obligations, it is the student's obligation to inform the OIP immediately so we can take action. If you don't tell us, we can't do anything to correct the situation for future students. The contract is available here.
Resident Coordinators are people that certain large programs hire to manage their students' affairs once they arrive in-country -- and they are sometimes involved in the application process. These individuals are trained professionals who are experts in facilitating the visit of the students from a particular university. There is a list of Resident Coordinators on this page. If you do not have a Resident Coordinator assigned to you, the OIP fulfills this function. Resident Coordinators typically handle in-country trips, logistical issues, meet the student's airplane when it arrives, arrange for the student's home-stay, etc. They do not normally handle academic advisement - although a couple of programs have very specific academic plans for their students and do get involved in academics. If you are a student who enrolls in USFQ classes under your own free will, the OIP will help you through the online registration process. Resident Coordinators, in this case, will not give you academic advisement (nor can they intervene in academic matters, such as excusing you from absences, changing exam dates, mediating grade disputes, etc.). Resident Coordinators do work very closely with the OIP and are an indispensable part of the office.
The Office of International Programs does not provide an airport service. For students who have requested a host family, Maricarmen Paz y Miño will put you in contact with your host family by email (if they have email). If your host family doesn't have email, Maricarmen will provide you with their telephone number so you can call and establish contact with your host family before you arrive, and confirm that they will pick you up at the airport; however, this is optional. You are required to inform Maricarmen of your exact arrival and flight information, and confirm the pick-up at the airport. If you do not contact your host family before you arrive, Maricarmen will help confirm the airport pick-up.
Sometimes if it is a large group arriving all at once on the same flight, someone from the OIP will be at the airport to help the host families meet up with their assigned students.
The first day of USFQ International Student orientation, the OIP even asks the host family to bring you to campus and pick you up.
More often than not, students are placed in clusters in town and will be informed of other students who live nearby. This information will be shared during the orientation.
Getting around town: After the first few days, the host family has been told to help familiarize you with public transportation and help you learn how to get to campus on your own.
Students who are part of programs with their own Resident Coordinator (list of Resident Coordinators) will receive all arrival and home-stay information from their Resident Coordinators. These programs even have their own independent arrival dates. Consult your Resident Coordinator if you are part of one of these programs. (Note: Michigan State and Beloit use Maricarmen and the OIP to arrange for home-stays; all other program Resident Coordinators make these arrangements themselves.)
GRADUATE STUDIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
International students are welcome to apply to USFQ's many graduate (Masters) programs. These are listed on the web page that lists USFQ's thirteen different colleges. These programs, and the contact information for the academic authorities of these programs, is listed here on the "postgrado" web page.
Students wishing to complete a USFQ graduate degree must go through the normal admission process through the USFQ Office of Admissions. The principal contact for graduate admissions is Ivka Balic - ivkab@mail.usfq.edu.ec (Spanish-speaking only).
Regular Degree-Seeking International Students
Regular, full-time international graduate students are assisted by the Office of International Programs ($100 OIP administrative fee applies), and attend the OIP's regular orientation for new international students at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters.
Non-Degree International Students
There has been a recent increase in students interested in taking just a few graduate-level courses as visiting "non-degree" students. The first step is to contact the graduate program's director to discuss if courses in that particular program are right for, and/or open to, you. The Office of International Programs can help put you in contact with the program director.
Non-degree students pay on a per-course basis, based on the cost of the particular program.
Transferring Credits
Degree-seeking international graduate students who wish to transfer graduate credits from another institution to USFQ may do so - but subject to regulations stated by USFQ's Office of Graduate Studies and Registrar's Office. Contact the Office of Graduate Studies and/or the Director of the graduate program in which you are interested in for more details. or the Office of International Programs can help you.
Students wishing to transfer USFQ credits to another institution may do so. USFQ's Registrar's Office is in charge of processing such requests, but part of the services provided by the Office of International Programs is to help international students process such requests. Acceptance of such transfer credits is entirely at the discretion of the foreign institution.
Beginning in Fall 2007 the Office of International Programs will no longer use an individually assigned tutor system. This has dramatically changed the OIP's approach to international student registration. This new system gives international students the tools to do everything independently online and puts students in direct contact with the colleges.
Students can independently choose their courses from any of USFQ's thirteen different colleges. USFQ offers about 1200 courses a semester, so choosing can be difficult. For this reason, this important web page with detailed recommendations about what to study has been specially designed to help USFQ's visiting students help make wise course selections.
If students have specific questions about specific courses they are now responsible for contacting the departments directly and asking the deans/coordinators/directors/professors themselves. However, always feel free to contact someone in the Office of International Programs if you have problems or questions.
Catalogue, Course Descriptions & Schedule of Classes
USFQ has been undergoing a lot of academic changes and an official university catalogue has not been published as scheduled. It will be made available as soon as possible. However, international students should find the course descriptions and online Schedule of Classes sufficient for their purposes.
Download a 1.8MB pdf of the University's Course Descriptions here.
Schedule of Classes
USFQ doesn't publish a hard copy of its Schedule of Classes. It simply publishes this information online.via its Registrar's online system. To see the courses being offered in the upcoming semester (without course descriptions), simply go to the registrar's page of the main USFQ web page - (the direct link is http://192.188.53.230/ ) - and choose "consulta" for the semester you are interested in. Either put the course prefix you are interested in, or if you simply leave the form blank and hit "return" the entire listing of courses will appear. This information is usually available a six to eight weeks before the semester begins. To actually register, you will be sent instructions and a student code after acceptance to the program.
Approximately 60% of the USFQ faculty are educated in the U.S. Approximately 200 of the professors are full time (which is an extraordinarily high number in comparison to other Ecuadorian universities). Hundreds more are part time. USFQ employs over half of the doctoral level (Ph.D.'s or similar degrees) in the country. The institution is very proud of its faculty and invests heavily to ensure it is the best in Ecuador. Similarly, the faculty are proud to be affiliated with the best university in the country.
The USFQ Home Page has a page dedicated to sharing information about its professors.
The university operates on a North American academic calendar (Spring, Fall, and Summer Semesters). See the important dates page for details.
Can Students Get Special Exemptions to the Calendar?
As a general rule, international students are held to the
same requirements as regular students.
In other words, you have to be here for the first
day of class, and you have to be here for exams and exam week.
However, sometimes individual students make special
arrangements with the professors.
The OIP does not encourage these arrangements, but
they do happen.
In those cases, the arrangement is negotiated
between the professor and the student.
See the USFQ home page for the latest calendar
and/or
the important dates
page.
How Many Semesters Can I Study at USFQ?
Typically, after an International Student applies for study abroad at his/her university, the university contacts USFQ to get authorization to send the student to USFQ. The applicant is then contacted by USFQ's Office of International Programs and informed of the period that they are accepted for. This takes place in the form of an acceptance letter from USFQ's Office of International Programs. Once USFQ accepts the student for the agreed upon period, any changes or extensions in this stay must be approved by the Director of International Programs, as well as the student's home university.
The average student is accepted for one semester, but students can also be accepted for two semesters. USFQ does not allow third-semester extensions. Students wishing to attend USFQ for a third semester must do so outside of the exchange agreements as an independent student.
The OIP has implemented an online registration system for the first time beginning in Summer 2007 (the same system that regular Ecuadorian students use). During the processing of your application - shortly before arrival in Ecuador - you will be sent, via email, a a student number, a password, and specific instructions explaining how to register online. (See also What Can I/Should I Study above.)
IMPORTANT: It is critical that you begin your registration process by visiting the Recommended Studies web page.
Who Can Answer My Registration Questions?
Please visit this web page for details about who to contact with all types of questions -- Who Can Answer My Registration Questions?
IMPORTANT:
USFQ has a North American style system of registering that allows students a grace period to add and drop courses. You must comply with USFQ rules regarding adding and dropping courses. If you decide not to take a course, but fail to withdraw, you will receive an "N" for that class, which will count as an F in calculating your GPA. Consult the important dates for deadlines.
YOU CANNOT SIMPLY STOP SHOWING UP FOR A CLASS AND CONSIDER THIS TO BE "DROPPING" THE COURSE. Similarly, simply telling the professor that you will not be going to class anymore is NOT sufficient; the course will STILL show up on your transcript if you do this.
There are fines for late withdrawal and late registration after the drop and add dates. After the final "last day to drop classes with a fine", students might still be allowed to drop. It's a long, painful procedure, so we don't recommend it. However, that procedure is to: 1) getting written approval from the professor to drop the course (check the Registrar's office for the proper form), 2) paying a higher fine at the Treasurer's Office, 3) going to the Registrar's Office to have it approved by the Registrar (showing them the receipt and the approved document with required signatures), 4) The Registrar removes the class.
Keep in mind that there is a limit to when the professors can allow the students
to drop. It depends on the dean and the professor. They CAN
say "no" and make it impossible after the published "last day to add/drop" -- so
it is better NOT to count on dropping classes after that published date.
When registering and checking your schedule, it is important that you verify that you are actually registered for the courses you think you are -- check that the section, day/time/classroom, and professor are the correct ones. Confusing one class for another, or failing to verify you are correctly registered, is rarely considered a valid justification for changing a failing grade or dropping a course from your schedule.
Finally, keep in mind that you cannot drop your course load to below 12 credits. (See the Number of Credits Required / Allowable section.)
(Note: In 2008 USFQ is changing over to a world-standard registrar system, so both the Registrar system, and the main USFQ web page, may be undergoing changes.)
USFQ's credit system is the same as the North American/United States system. 1 credit is equal to15 hours. Normal courses are 3 credits, and classes meet for three hours a week in a 15 week semester. A full undergraduate course load is 12 credits. USFQ requires 128 hours for graduation.
USFQ's grading scale is based on the standard U.S. 4.0 A, B, C, D, F scale. USFQ does not use pluses or minuses.
(See the USFQ Catalogue for more details.)
Number of Credits
Required / Allowable
International students must take at least 12 credits "presencial" (courses
where you are "present", that meet on a regular basis in a classroom)
and usually take no more than 16; however, students may request exceptions in
very special circumstances.
The normal USFQ registration policy applies to international students, just like it does for normal Ecuadorian students. That policy is the following:
Students with below a 3.0 average can take a maximum of 16 credits .
Students with above a 3.0 average can take a maximum of 18 credits, with permission from the dean.
*Note: Do not take this decision lightly. 18 credits is a demanding load.
* In the case of international students, who do not have access to their dean back home, this permission will come in the form of a recommendation from the Director of International Programs. The Director is responsible for verifying the student's average before making this recommendation - this can sometimes be done by reviewing the student's application in the OIP, or often this can be done online at the student's university's webpage. The Director of International Programs will then send a request to the Registrar to allow the student to register for over 16 credits. Email communications are sufficient.
If allowed to take these extra credits, there is no extra cost to the student.
USFQ does have an entire distance education program. Visiting international students are required to enroll in a minimum of 12 credits "presencial" (courses where you are "present", that meet on a regular basis in a classroom). If a student would like to take an additional distance course, this is allowable with the knowledge of the student's assigned tutor and WITH THE PERMISSION OF HIS/HER HOME UNIVERSITY AND THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS. Beware: Some universities have a blanket policy prohibiting their students from taking distance education courses while on an exchange program.
Students caught violating this policy will have their visa sponsorship revoked and can be automatically un-enrolled from the university.
Keep in mind that USFQ will issue transcripts whether or not they contain N or I (Incomplete) and you will need to request a corrected transcript once you resolve these issues. However, transcripts will be held if you have outstanding debts, unreturned library books or unpaid fines. It is YOUR responsibility to resolve any such problems before you leave Ecuador. Transcripts will be sent to the home university for students coming through exchange agreements. "Independent" students must provide the OIP with the address they wish to have their transcript sent to.
In order to send you copies of your transcripts we need you to pay $9 per transcript. The information for the payment is below. Just let us know when you are sending the check and we'll have the transcripts issued. We need you to send us (contact Veronica Castelo) the address / addresses to where you want us to send them but please include a phone number too. We need that info for the courier.
You can mail a check to our bank in Miami, Florida:
Name of Bank: Pacific National Bank
Bank Address: 1390 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL 33131-3324
Account No.: 140324506 (Note: New number! It changed July 07.)
ABA Routing No.: 066011350
Beneficiary: Corporación de Promoción Universitaria
The U.S. Postal Service is pretty reliable. Should you decideto mail a check please enclose a short letter with the account data, andmention that it is for your account. If the bank doesn't receivesomething indicating the purpose of the deposit, it will be verydifficult for us to identify the deposit and properly credit youraccount with the university Treasurer's office.
Final exams cannot be taken early except in cases of illness or extreme extenuating circumstances, so plan accordingly.
Studying Spanish at USFQ (also see the Language Information section)
USFQ offers excellent courses for people learning Spanish as a second language. These are taught both within the College of Liberal Arts' Spanish Department, as well as by the Instituto de Lenguas Extranjeras. A full listing of these Spanish courses is available at the bottom of this page.
Generally speaking, international students come to USFQ to take 12-15 credits. 3 to 6 of those credits can be Spanish courses, which would be included as part of your exchange agreement. (See your college's details for more information.) Your grade will be a part of your official transcript at USFQ and can easily be forwarded to your home university. A copy of the course syllabus and description are available upon request.
Below are more details about studying Spanish in the Instituto para Lenguas Extranjeras (ILE). Again, be sure and visit this page, too, for more information about studying Spanish at USFQ:
Non-Credit Spanish Courses at the Instituto para Lenguajes Extranjeros (ILE)
Some international students like to study Spanish before their official exchange begins. These students can do this for-credit, or not-for-credit. For-credit Spanish courses follow the normal USFQ tuition pricing schedule. Non-credit Spanish courses are subject to the following pricing schedule:
Costs for Non-Credit Spanish Courses in the Instituto para Lenguajes Extranjeros (ILE)
SINGLE COURSES:
$250 USD for 45 hour courses for the general public (students receive a certificate, but no academic credits)
ILE's Special Spanish Package
You can combine two 45-hour courses -- for a total of 90 hours of instruction -- for just $ 350.00.
Independent International Students Studying Spanish in ILE
This applies to students that are abroad and want to come to USFQ on a student visa . These "independent" students (those not at USFQ as part of an official exchange program) need to submit a student visa application form to the Ecuadorian Consular Section. STUDENTS MUST TRANSFER $500.00 USD to ILE's Pacific National Bank account in Miami ABA 066011350 -- Account Number 0115189306. Once the transaction is completed, the deposit form has to be faxed to: (593-2) 289-0070. Attention ENRIQUE WONG USFQ". ILE will send the Admissions letter upon receipt of the $500.00 deposit. This fee will cover the costs of two courses and the cost of early admission.
If for some reason a student visa is not required, students can simply pay the USFQ Treasury Office directly.
ILE Spanish Courses available Fall 2006
1. Beginning Spanish I (45 hours a semester): COSTS: $250 USD
2. Beginning Spanish II (45 hours a semester): COSTS: $250 USD
3. Intermediate Spanish (45 hours) can be combined with Intermediate Conversational Spanish.
4. Advanced Spanish (45 hours) can be combined with Advanced Conversational Spanish.
5. Intermediate Conversational Spanish.
6. Advanced Conversational Spanish.
7. Spanish Language and Literature.
ILE's Specially Tailored Spanish Courses
The Foreign Language Institute - (ILE) can organize special short-term INTENSIVE SPANISH CLASSES for small groups who will be in Ecuador for less than a full semester. We are very happy to meet your needs.
ILE's Intensive Spanish Courses
These courses are designed to facilitate learning at a faster pace. The schedule is Monday through Friday, two hours a day, for five weeks.
ILE's Spanish Course Dates
See the Important Dates page
IMPORTANT:
As soon as you get your Ecuadorian visa, make a copy of the first page of your passport as well as a copy of the page with the visa. You are required to turn in a copy of these to the OIP once in-country. Make a second copy for yourself to carry with you. Do not carry your passport with you in-country. Keep it in a secure place. Once you get your "Censo" card, make a copy of that, too (but carry the original - see below for details).
Before you come to Ecuador, you must get a visa. A tourist visa is not good for the length of time that you will be in Ecuador, and changing a tourist visa once you are in the country is a very unpleasant experience. Therefore, the OIP helps incoming exchange students obtain a "12-VIII" visa, which is an "Intercambio Cultural" visa. It is not a student visa per se, but it is the proper visa to study at USFQ. It is a fairly simple, straightforward process. Please go to this page for full details.
DEALING WITH IMMIGRATION ONCE IN-COUNTRY
There are basically three important and, unfortunately, tediously unpleasant things you have to do with the Ecuadorian government when you are here on a student visa issued by the office of International Programs. The government's immigration authorities keep track of everyone in the country via a complex system of registered visas, i.d. cards, and exit visas. As unpleasant as this might be, there is no choice. You have to go through these things. Not doing so can result in nasty consequences with the authorities, including being denied exit from the country, hefty fines, and even arrest (the first two have actually happened!). The three "tramites" (procedures) you have to do are:
1. Register your visa
2. Get a "censo" card
3. Get a "salida" (exit visa)
Here is how to do them...
You must complete the full process, which includes going to the DIRECCION DE EXTRANJERIA and the POLICIA DE MIGRACION within 30 days of entering Ecuador. There is one more step after this, so do not wait until the 30th day!!
Before going to the Dirección de Extranjería or the Policía de Migración, check your passport to make sure you have a "SELLO DE ENTRADA" (stamp of entry). Also, upon arrival at the airport, your passport should have been stamped with a seal stating your type of student visa: 12-VIII.
If you have T3, which is a tourist visa, advise the Office of International Programs.
Dirección de Extranjería to Register
the Visa:
San Ignacio 207 y San Xavier (sector Plaza Artigas) (New address -- Effective
the 20th of September, 2006).
Go there between 8:30 and 1:00 p.m. (from Monday to Friday except Wednesday) with the following:
a. Original passport
b. Original "CERTIFICADO DE VISACION" (In the packet of papers you received from the Ecuadorian consulate, you received a paper with your picture on it. This is the certificado de visación.). In case you forgot to bring it with you, you will have to pay for a new one in Cancillería (2227-025). This costs US$20.00 (twenty dollars).
Students must also bring a letter from the Office of International Programs to the Cancilleria asking for a Certificado de Visación.
c. Copies of:
the photo page of your passport
the page with the "entrada" into Ecuador
the page with the Ecuadorian visa
d. Letter from International Programs ("La Casa")
Insert all of these documents into the FILE FOLDER (a "carpeta") with a metal clasp (a "bincha") that you will get the first day of orientation. Make sure you don't write anything on the folder. Use a 2-hole punch on the sheets of paper, and stick in your original passport as well. Insert the folder in a MANILA ENVELOPE - you will have to buy one at a bookstore.
On the front of the envelope, you should write in the exact same format shown below:
Your LAST NAME Your FIRST NAME
Your ADDRESS IN QUITO
Your NATIONALITY
TYPE OF VISA
Show your papers to the official at the Dirección de Extranjería, who will give you a ticket ("autorización de pago"). Go to the Banco Internacional at La Niña y 6 de Diciembre (three blocks away from Dirección de Extranjería), hand over your ticket and pay $10.00. They will give you a receipt, which you should photocopy and keep for your records. Go back to the Dirección de Extranjería to give them the original receipt and the manila envelope with your papers.
You will have to leave these documents - including your passport! - at the Dirección de Extranjería for a few days, so please BE SURE TO KEEP A COPY OF YOUR PASSPORT (FIRST PAGE AND PAGE WITH YOUR ECUADORIAN VISA) WITH YOU while the original is being processed.
Once you have your passport with the new stamp you're ready to get your censo card from "Migracion" (not to be confused with the "Extranjeria" which registered your visa!). Do this within 30 days of entering the country as well.
The censo is your official ID and you MUST obtain it. Why? A few reasons: 1. You can be detained by authorities for not having it. 2. You need it to get your exit visa. 3. You can be denied exit from the country for not having the exit visa AND the censo card. 4. You can be fined $ 200 - $ 2000 for not having it or registering it late!
The Office of International Programs is not responsible if you are charged fines for not finishing this step.
How to get your censo card:
Go to the Dirección General de Migración (Amazonas y República - across from Jardin Mall) SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. or 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. AND ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS FROM 8:00 - 12:00 y de 3:00 - 5:30. You will need...
a) Original passport with the new stamp
b) 2 carnet-sized photos
c) A letter from the Office of International Programs stating that you are an international student
e) A letter from your host family with a copy of his/her "cédula de identidad" (Ecuadorian residents' ID cards - visitors such as students do not get cedulas) stating that you live with them.
g) A copy of your host family's most recent electricity or water bill
h) $4.00 (four U.S. Dollars)
i) Copies of:
the photo page of your passport
the page with the "entrada" into Ecuador
the page with the Ecuadorian visa
the page with the visa registration stamp
Insert all these documents into the manila envelope.
You will have to fill out a form at the Dirección General de Migración and give your photos to the officials. You will receive your censo card right then. The censo card valid for one year.
Insert all these documents into a manila envelope, on the front of the envelope write the exact same things you wrote to Register you Visa and glue one photo on the upper left corner.
You will have to check your personal data in a document that they will print on the spot and present to you. If the information is correct, sign the card. Please make sure that the information is correct. You will receive your Censo card right then. Don’t forget that the Censo is your ID while you’re in Ecuador. You should always carry it with you as well as a copy of your passport.
Because requirements for the Censo card may change, we recommend that you call in advance to confirm these instructions (Dirección General de Migración, Amazonas y República, 245 4122).
3. GET YOUR EXIT VISA, OR "SALIDA"
Luckily this final step is an easy one. Once you have your brand new censo card and your passport with the new stamp in it, go about 15 feet from where you got the censo and get your "permiso de salida". It costs a few dollars, too, but is relatively painless. They'll give you a separate piece of paper to keep with your passport. It is valid for one year. Again, you cannot leave the country without this!!
You're done! Now just remember that the censo is your ID while you're in Ecuador. It's really the only ID you need to carry with you, but we recommend also carrying a copy of your passport (first page and page with your Ecuadorian visa).
To leave the country you'll need your passport, censo, and salida.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR CENSO
This is a major hassle and we highly recommend that you don't do it. However, if it does become stolen or lost, notify the Office of International Programs and your program's Resident Coordinator, if applicable. You will need to go to a "Comisaria" (10 de agosto y Tarqui, Edificio Benalcazar 1000)) to report the loss and create a "denuncia por pérdida" (basically a police report). The police will help you write an official statement of what happened. Make a copy of it.
Then, with the "denuncia", 2 photos, your original passport, $4.00 (four
Dollars), and the copies you made of the documents to get the censo, go to
Dirección General de Migración (Amazonas y Republica) or to the Policía de
Migración (Isla Seymour y Río Coca) to apply for a new censo.
EXTENDING YOUR VISA IN ECUADOR
If you decide to lengthen your stay in Ecuador beyond the date that your visa allows, come to the Office of International Programs at least 6 weeks before the expiration date and we will help you. Since May 29, 2000, (Reg.Oficial #86) the extension of a visa costs $80.00 (EIGHTY DOLLARS).
IMPORTANT: If your visa expires in Ecuador, it CANNOT be renewed and you will have to leave the country immediately. Make sure the expiration date on your visa corresponds to your planned length of stay. The university cannot help you once the visa expires.
* Police regulations in Ecuador are subject to change so check with the Office of International Programs periodically for the most current information.
REMINDER: You should not carry your original passport with you unless the situation specifically requires it. Instead, carry a copy of your passport (first page and page with your Ecuadorian visa) along with your CENSO card. It's a good idea to keep another copy of your passport and an extra photo, along with the receipts from any traveler's checks, in a safe place. This will help minimize the hassle of replacing these items! It's very expensive to replace a lost passport overseas. If you have visiting family or friends, they should also carry photocopies of their passports.
To maintain your student visa with USFQ, you must be a full-time enrolled student. Students who withdraw from their classes at USFQ, or who stay in Ecuador without studying at USFQ, will be subject to having their student visa cancelled without notification. (Traveling for a short period beyond your studies at USFQ is allowed.)
For any legal advise concerning Migración procedures please contact the OIP. Just in case, this is our attorney's contact information, too:
Marcia Lara or José Guerrero
Guerrero Ponce Abogados
2244182 / 2465533
Av. De los Shyris 1548 y NNUU
Edificio Alfil, 7mo piso Oficina #71
USFQ has a clinic that serves thousands of people a year for simple out-patient issues. Students get their first appointment free of charge. The second visit is very inexpensive (around $30). Students referred to a specialist will have to pay those fees themselves and get a receipt to submit to their insurance companies back home.
For hospitalization and specialist services, we recommend either Hospital de Los Valles (2 miles from USFQ) or Hospital Metropolitano in Quito (sort of far - about a 45 minute drive from campus). Hospital de Los Valles is a brand new state-of-the-art facility that is very convenient and provides excellent health care.
Students should have an international medical insurance plan that will cover them while they are in Ecuador. In case medical attention is necessary, students will pay out of pocket and submit receipts to their insurance company to be reimbursed. It is highly recommended that you check with your insurance company to see what their procedures and requirements are before you come.
A certificate is required stating that the student is in good health. The Office of Internacional Programs reserves the right to reject the application of a student due to any condition that may cause harm to his/her helath and safety, as well as the health and safety of his/her host family.
Ecuadorian immigration does not require any special vaccinations. However, if you are planning to go to the "Oriente" (Amazon Basin) or the Coastal areas, certain precautions should be taken, and might be required by your program. Going to Tiputini requires a yellow fever vaccination card, for example. See your program's details for more information.
If you get sick while in Ecuador, please let your Resident Coordinator (if applicable) know. Also let your host family know , and if you don't feel better in a few days, go to a doctor. If the illness threatens to affect your academic performance, immediately inform the OIP. The OIP, your Resident Coordinator, and your host family are all sources of information and can refer you to a doctor. Included in your orientation packet is a list of doctors recommended by the US Embassy in Quito. Also, the Universidad San Francisco de Quito has a medical clinic with highly qualified physicians on campus. Visits to the doctors on duty at the USFQ Clinic are free, but you will have to pay for laboratory tests, materials, and appointments with specialists.
Again, you will not be able to present your medical insurance card for coverage and will have to pay out-of-pocket. However, keep all your receipts and present them to your insurance company for reimbursement. Your insurance company should have provided you with a form for signature by the doctor.
Because of the altitude in Quito, you may feel slightly winded, dizzy and/or nauseous until you've adjusted. This adjustment can take a couple of weeks, so make sure to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and don't push yourself. You may also notice a change in appetite and disturbed sleeping pattern. These symptoms can all be attributed to the altitude, so give it some time, and you will get used to it.
You will notice many street dogs in Quito. If at any time during your stay you are bitten by a dog, contact the Office of International Programs and/or your Resident Coordinator (if applicable) immediately. If you are bitten, you must get a rabies vaccination right away, unless you can prove that the dog has been vaccinated.
As you know, the HIV-virus and all other sexually-transmitted diseases are prevalent everywhere in the world. Students are strongly encouraged to take the proper precautions regarding sexual activity during their study abroad program.
Because of the changes in food and water, it is not uncommon for students to experience diarrhea and other stomach ailments while in Ecuador. You will need to watch what you eat and drink during your stay. Do not just eat what your Ecuadorian friends are eating. Their systems have adapted to bacteria here that will be new to your system. You can expect a certain amount of stomach discomfort and may experience cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Don't be too alarmed by this -- you will eventually adjust.
If the diarrhea is severe and lasts for a few days, you could become dehydrated. This is only exacerbated by the altitude in Quito, so be sure to drink at least 3 liters of clear liquid a day. Water with a little sugar and salt is a good idea. Avoid caffeine and milk-based products. A common suggestion to help deal with traveler's diarrhea is the B.R.A.T diet.
(B: bananas, R: rice, A: apple sauce, T: toast)
These are only suggestions, and your physician may recommend other foods.
If the conditions last for more than 3 days, or if you have blood in your stool, severe abdominal pain and/or a high fever, contact the Office of International Programs, your Resident Coordinator and your host family for immediate medical assistance
Malaria is found in Ecuador in altitudes below 1,500 meters. While it is not a problem in Quito, you should take precautions if you plan on traveling outside of Quito to areas below this altitude, especially to the coast or the rain forest. Larium is the drug recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
You greatly increase your chances of safety by taking these steps when in high risk areas:
Wear long sleeves and long pants
Avoid sheer fabrics, sandals, shiny jewelry and perfume
Use an insect repellent with at least 30% DEET on your skin
Stay inside at dawn, dusk and after dark
Visit rural and low-lying areas during the day (the risk increases from dusk to dawn).
If you experience flu-like symptoms while in a malarial area, contact a doctor immediately.
USFQ's Psychology department attends students in need of counseling. If you would like to make an appointment, the OIP can help you, or you can contact the Director of the Psychology Department directly to help you arrange an appointment with a qualified counselor. Contact Dr. Teresa Borja by email teresa@usfq.edu.ec or at USFQ Tel. ext 1264 . If it is an emergency, contact the Director or Assistant Director of the OIP and they will help you contact someone immediately.
Do not eat food sold on the street in Ecuador.
Avoid all raw or undercooked fish, shellfish and meat.
Take care with dairy products.
Cook it, boil it, peel it, OR FORGET IT.
Don't drink tap water in Ecuador.
Your host family will either purify their drinking water by boiling or filtering it, or they will buy bottled water.
To purify tap water, boil it for AT LEAST 20 minutes at a constant, rolling boil.
Use safe water for brushing your teeth and taking medications.
DO NOT TAKE UNNECESSARY RISKS WITH YOUR HEALTH!!
* You must be ready to pay for your hospital services. Major hospitals will accept credit cards.
Like other big cities, there are areas of Quito that you should never visit, and you should always be aware of your surroundings. You need to use common sense and be street smart. Don't take unnecessary risks. Do not walk or take buses alone at night -- especially women. Your host families may advise you, so please take heed of their warnings, even if they seem extra cautious. It's best to take their advice since you are unfamiliar with the city, the language and the customs.
Do not go into La Parque Carolina after dark. Be VERY, VERY careful in La Mariscal, which is the main nightlife area in Quito. Crime has increased in this area recently, and tourists are a favorite target. The bus station in Quito is not a good place to hang out either at night or during the day. Limit the length of time you spend there. Do not climb Pichincha, the mountain on the west side of the city, alone or in groups. It's a good idea to move around the city in groups and avoid all parks at and after sunset.
Don't wear expensive jewelry or watches or carry