Overview
Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) is Ecuador’s leading private liberal arts university, founded in 1988. With a bilingual learning model and an international academic perspective, USFQ is designed to give students both strong subject knowledge and the communication skills needed for global careers. The university’s main campus in Cumbayá brings together modern teaching spaces and research-oriented institutes across its 11 colleges and research units.
USFQ serves around 8,000 students and is widely known for its active study-abroad partnerships and international-facing academic environment. It is especially recognized for its Galápagos Institute, its medical school, and hospitality management and culinary programs. By combining interdisciplinary coursework with an emphasis on critical thinking, USFQ aims to prepare graduates for leadership roles in Ecuador and abroad.
2. General Information
| Name | Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) |
|---|---|
| Established | 1988 |
| Type | Private University |
| Location | Cumbayá, Quito Metropolitan District |
| Website | www.usfq.edu.ec |
| Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (U.S.) |
| Student Population | Approx. 8,000 |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition can vary by program format (including medical and Galápagos offerings) and year of study. The table below summarizes commonly referenced annual ranges for planning purposes.
| Program | Tuition Fee (Annual, in USD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs | $12,000 – $16,000 |
| Medical School | $22,000 |
| Graduate Programs | $14,000 – $18,000 |
| Galápagos Programs | +$3,000 program fee |
| Registration Fees | $500 |
4. Academic Programs
USFQ’s academic portfolio is organized across multiple colleges and includes both degree programs and executive-style education. Students looking for a focused career path often compare USFQ’s professional pathways with other Ecuadorian options, such as Universidad de Las Américas for career-oriented degrees.
- College of Medicine (MD program)
- College of Hospitality and Culinary Arts
- College of Biological & Environmental Sciences
- Galapagos Institute for the Arts & Sciences
- College of Communication & Contemporary Arts
- College of International Relations
- Executive Education Programs
5. Facilities
On campus, USFQ supports learning through specialized facilities, which is particularly important for programs that require lab work, practical training, or field-based research. For example, students in science and health-related pathways benefit from dedicated lab environments, while hospitality and culinary students train in teaching spaces designed for real service and production workflows.
- Modern medical simulation center
- Galapagos Science Center (San Cristóbal Island)
- 5-star teaching hotel and restaurant
- DNA and biotechnology laboratories
- Performing arts complex with theaters
- Olympic-standard sports facilities
6. Accommodation
USFQ offers on-campus housing in modern residential complexes with 24/7 security, which can be a major advantage for international students or those who prefer an integrated campus routine. Many international students live on campus, while Ecuadorian students commonly commute or choose nearby rentals in the Quito area.
- On-campus suites: $600-$900/month (meal plans available)
- Off-campus housing assistance
- Preferred residential areas: Cumbayá, Tumbaco
- Airport pickup service for international students
7. Contact Information
- Email: admissions@usfq.edu.ec
- Phone: +593 2 297-1700
- Address: Diego de Robles y Vía Interoceánica, Quito 170901
- International Office: Casa Corona building
More Universities in Ecuador
- Universidad Central del Ecuador
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador
- Universidad de Guayaquil
- Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja
- Universidad de Cuenca
- Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas
- Universidad de Las Américas Ecuador
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