Get Started
This page is designed for students who have already applied to a study abroad program either directly with us at ACLAS or through a university or other group. If you’re looking for information on how to study at ALCAS please check out our independent student programs page or contact us directly with questions. Thanks!
Step 1 - Registration Form
Students planning to come to Ecuador individually or in a group program should fill out the Registration Form when asked to do so by their program administrator. If you are unsure whether or not you should fill out this form, please contact us.
Step 2 - Important Documents
Passport
If you already have a passport check immediately to make sure that is valid (has not expired) and will not expire for at least 6 months after the date you will return from Ecuador.
If you do not have a passport or yours has expired, you must apply for one immediately.
Visit travel.state.gov to find out how to apply. Be sure to check how long it takes to process a passport. (Sometimes it can take up to 4 months!) You will want to have the passport in your hand at least two weeks prior to your departure.
Travel Registration – Required
As soon as you know your arrival date for your program please register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) conducted by the Department of State of the United States.
You will automatically receive the most current information compiled about Ecuador. You will also receive updates, including Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts (both are uncommon for Ecuador).
You only need to sign up once, and then you can add and delete trips from your account based on your travel plans if you travel abroad again. You'll register via the STEP registration page at step.state.gov/step/
Visas
It is unlikely that you will need to apply for a visa to enter Ecuador. However, if you are not a U.S. passport holder or you plan to be in Ecuador for over 90 days you should check. Visit the webpage for the Ecuadorian Embassy in the country of your citizenship for more information.
Visas can take quite a bit of time to be processed, typically weeks. Please start this process as soon as possible. There is no way to get a visa in Ecuador.