The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds to pursue research or graduate studies.

During the 10-month grant, U.S. Students meet, collaborate, and learn from their Ecuadorian counterparts while sharing their experiences and becoming part of a community.

Apply for a Fulbright grant and become part of a global community.

Office Hours: the Fulbright Commission in Ecuador is happy to answer any questions you may have about a grant in Ecuador. Office hours are available via Zoom according to the dates listed below. Register in this link for the Zoom meeting.

  • April 18, 2024 – 2pm-3:30 pm, Quito, Ecuador time, 3pm EST time
  • May 30, 2024 – 2pm-3:30 pm, Quito, Ecuador time, 3pm EST time
  • June 27, 2024 – 2pm-3:30 pm, Quito, Ecuador time, 3pm EST time
  • July 25, 2024 – 2pm-3:30 pm, Quito, Ecuador time, 3pm EST time
  • August 29, 2024 – 2pm-3:30 pm, Quito, Ecuador time, 3pm EST time
  • September 26, 2024 – 2pm-3:30 pm, Quito, Ecuador time, 3pm EST time

To apply, click here: https://us.fulbrightonline.org/

Benefits
  • Round trip plane ticket
  • Accident and sickness health benefits
  • Close support and monitoring
  • Allowance package for research, travel, materials, and cultural events
  • 24/7 support line for urgent and non-urgent situations
  • Monthly stipend for 10 months to cover room, board, and incidentals
  • Pre-departure and in-country orientations
Eligibility
  • Must be a U.S. citizen; permanent residents are not eligible
  • A Statement of Grant Purpose showing a clear plan and feasibility
  • Ability to represent the U.S. and its culture
  • Bachelor’s degree before the start of the grant
  • Good academic and professional record
  • To check full eligibility requirements visit: https://us.fulbrightonline.org/about/eligibility
  • Intermediate level of Spanish or Kichwa, depending on the research
  • Intermediate level of Spanish or Kichwa, depending on the research
Calendar
FAQs
Check further details about the application process at the Institute of International Education: https://us.fulbrightonline.org/applicants/information-sessions
Do I need to know Spanish?
Yes, an intermediate level of Spanish is required for the transition to your new environment. Most Ecuadorians do not speak English and you will need Spanish for daily and project-related activities. 
Do I need to know Kichwa or an indigenous language?
If your project involves working with indigenous populations, yes, you will need to have proficiency in Kichwa or, depending on the community, another indigenous language; or you must demonstrate in the grant statement that such ability is not necessary for your project.
Do I need an affiliation with an institution in Ecuador?
Yes, you must have an affiliation with an institution based in Ecuador: a higher education institution, NGO, government or public institution, research institute, or civil society organization. The host institution is very important, because it provides support for your project and helps expand your network of contacts to achieve your goals. It is important to have an affiliation that is interested in your project and is committed to supporting you throughout your grant period. We encourage applicants to seek principal or secondary affiliation with an institution of higher education and connect with a professor who can provide mentorship to their project.

The Commission can help candidates connect with institutions in Ecuador. Please contact us at programs@fulbright.org.ec
Can I apply to the grant in a medical field?
Proposals for medical research involving clinical training, patient care or patient contact are not eligible. Fulbright policies do not authorize activities for which a license to practice medicine or nursing is required. 
Do I need a visa for my grant?
Yes, you need a visa to stay for 10 months in Ecuador. You will need a visa de residencia temporal – voluntario. This visa requires that you obtain various documents and have those apostilled. Instructions about the visa process will be shared with selected candidates.
How does the Commission select grantees?
The Fulbright Commission in Ecuador is looking for candidates who want to generate an impact in Ecuador. Our Academic Committee reviews all applications and determines which candidates will be selected as grantees. The Committee is interested in applicants who demonstrate commitment to engaging with their host community, whose statement of grant purpose includes a plan to execute the proposed project and has clear objectives, and candidates who are affiliated with an Ecuadorian institution with substantial experience in the specific area of the proposed project. The Academic Committee promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in review of all applications.
When does my grant start?
The Fulbright Commission in Ecuador is very flexible in terms of when grantees can start their grants. If you will be taking classes in Ecuador, you may need to arrive as soon as early August. Most grantees arrive during August – September or even early October.
Who can I contact if I need more information?
Please contact us at programs@fulbright.org.ec
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