Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Direct Enrollment - GAIAS

Study Abroad
Program Options:
Direct Enrollment
Length:
Fall, Spring

At a Glance

Program Dates:

  • Academic Year 2024: Early August - Early May
  • Spring 2025: January 10 - May 10
  • Fall 2025: August 08 - December 06

Credits:

16 to 19 per Semester

Estimated Cost:

$23,450

Visa Required:

Maybe

Housing:

Homestay

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

About the Program

This direct enrollment program is organized through the Galápagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences (GAIAS), a remote campus of the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) located on the island of San Cristóbal. 

Fast paced and as rewarding as it is challenging, this program is great for students interested in conducting field research or going on to graduate school. Think of the ideal candidate as a streetwise Indiana Jones—that is, one who would happily trade indoor luxury for adventurous experiences, plenty of sun, and the open ocean air. 

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Start Your Semester in Quito

Take your first course in your academic track in Ecuador’s capital.

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Live with Local Residents

Live in a private room in a homestay with a family or señora.

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Follow Your Academic Interests

Select courses from four Biology-based tracks.

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Travel Throughout Ecuador

Travel to the Amazon Rainforest and Ecuador's Coastal Regions.

Fall 2025

Program Dates:

August 08 - December 06

Application Deadline:

Estimated Cost:

$
23,450

Program Advisor

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Sarah Fang

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

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Why the Galápagos Islands?

There’s a reason why many of the world’s most famous scientists have visited the Galápagos Islands—now it’s your turn to discover one of the world’s most beautiful and biologically diverse island locations. It’s here that you will get hands-on experience studying topics such as Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Marine Ecology, and Sociology.

Learn More About the Galápagos Islands

Get to Know Your New City

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Explore Kicker Rock

Travel by boat to enjoy one of the best spots for snorkeling.

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See Turtles at a Breeding Center

Observe turtles in their native habitat.

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Snorkel with Sea Lions

Head to La Loberia beach and spend a day in the sun.

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Support from Quito

On-the-ground staff are available at the Center in Quito.

Program Dates

Spring 2025

Program Dates:

January 10 - May 10

Application Deadline:

Fall 2025

Program Dates:

August 08 - December 06

Application Deadline:

Academics