YFU Ecuador usually places students in private (paid) schools. YFU will pay registration fees and tuition fees, but will not pay for books, trasnportation or any other materials such as uniforms. This is the responsibility of each student and may cost approximately US$ 200 for uniforms and books for the whole year.

The Ecuadorian school system divides 11th and 12th grade students according to specializations: usually mathematics, biology and social sciences. Students do not choose their own courses, but rather follow the regular courses according to their specialization. Most schools usually have uniforms; classes begin at 7:30 am and finish at 1:30 pm. The regular school calendar is from September to July; thus, this does not allow summer students to attend school in Ecuador.

During one month of the school year, students have the option of participating in some type of volunteer in various foundations of Ecuador. This will be announced at the arrival orientations and students will be able to choose the type of volunteer service they prefer. This takes place usually during the months of May or June.