How can I host a foreign exchange student?

Step 1: Contact an exchange program facilitator

Although these organizations look forward to seeing more families interested in hosting exchange students, not everyone can be a host.

And, you don’t get to know if you’re a worthy host until you talk to the exchange program facilitators.

You’ll be given a representative to work with when you contact a facilitating organisation.

The representative will give you the organisation’s hosting requirements and explain your duties as a host family.

Some well-known facilitating organizations include

AFS Intercultural Programs – they are popular for their vast support network.
CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange).
Rotary Youth Exchange.
EF (Education First) High School Exchange Year.
ICES (International Cultural Exchange Services).
Apex.

Step 2: Understand the requirements to host an exchange student

When you get in touch with a representative, they’ll explain the responsibilities and requirements for hosting, including:

Providing a safe, welcoming environment for the student.
Offering basic needs like meals and school transportation.
Giving emotional and cultural support to help the student adjust.

The representative will also tell you about background checks, home inspections, and other conditions, like:

Ensuring your home meets safety standards
Being willing to engage in cultural exchange
Following program rules and guidelines

If you meet the requirements and are willing to proceed to be a host, the next step is to apply (to be a host).

The representative will assist you with the application (it can be done either online or offline).

To apply, you’ll submit details about your family, community and intention to host.

You’ll also choose the type of exchange program you’re interested in.

Step 4: Background check and home inspection

After submitting your application, the facilitating organization will conduct a background check on you and every adult in your family,

The check will be thorough and done to ensure the safety of the exchange student.

During the check, every concerning detail (like your criminal history and record of offences) will be examined.

In addition to background checks, they’ll schedule a time to conduct a home inspection – they’ll come to your home and see if you can host a student.

The student needs a comfortable living space, a designated bedroom, basic furniture and amenities like a bed, desk, chair, and storage for clothes and personal belongings.

If you have any further questions, you can ask during the home inspection.

Finally, the representatives will also meet with every member of your family and explain the program further, individually.

Step 5: Choose a program and student

Having a great hosting experience starts with selecting the right exchange program and student.

Every facilitating organization have different programs, select the one that aligns with your interest.

When picking a student, choose a student whose interests and personality fit well with your family.

The representative can advise you on who to consider among available students.

You’ll have access to the student’s profile, photos and videos.

When you pick a student, the organization will notify the student about your interest and give the student your information to learn about you.

Step 6: Meet and bond with the student

After placement, you can meet the student, exchange contact details and start bonding

You can communicate with the student through phone, chat or connect through video calls, and social media before the student arrives.

In addition, you can share stories about your daily life, and interests, and learn about each other’s cultures.

This initial bonding is important – it makes transitioning easier for the student.

Step 7: Attend orientation programs

Most organizations that facilitate student exchange programs conduct orientation sessions for host families before the student’s arrival.

The aim is to explain for each host what to expect, tips on creating a welcoming environment, and how to help the students adjust to their new surroundings.

The orientation sessions will also cover cultural differences, communication strategies, and common challenges.

In addition to practical advice, the orientation is a great opportunity to connect with other host families.

By connecting with others who are hosting exchange students, you’ll be part of “a supportive host community” that will help each other throughout the hosting process.

Step 8: Welcome the Student

When the day finally arrives for the student to join your family, make them feel at home right from the start.

A warm and friendly welcome will help ease their transition and make them feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

You can plan a small welcome activity, like a family meal or a tour of your home and neighbourhood, to introduce them to their new environment.

Take time to get to know the student, their background, and their interests.

The first few days will be an adjustment period for both of you, but by supporting, you’ll help the student settle in.

What are the rules for hosting a foreign exchange student?

To be a good host:

You must comply with program requirements

Every hosting program has its requirements. When hosting a foreign exchange student, you must follow the rules and requirements set by the exchange program or organization.

That’s how it works.

You’ll be required to complete an application, undergo a background check, and meet other requirements set by the program facilitators.

Provide a safe and welcoming environment for the student

As a host family, it is your responsibility to provide a safe and welcoming environment for the exchange student.

That’s your number one responsibility!

Ensure your home meets safety standards, has a clean living space, and has basic things the student will need.

Respect the cultural differences between you and the student

When you host a foreign exchange student, it means you’re willing to respect the student’s cultural background, traditions, and values.

Be open-minded, tolerant, and willing to learn about and appreciate the student’s culture.

Communicate openly and honestly with the student

Remember this; effective communication is key to a successful hosting experience.

Communicate honestly with the student, and address any concerns or issues that come up respectfully.

Encourage the student to express their feelings openly as well.

It helps a lot.

Respect each other’s privacy and personal space

Respect the exchange student’s privacy and personal space.

I know the student is in your house but the student also needs privacy.

Give the student a designated area in the house, like a bedroom, where the student can have personal time and space.

Avoid invading their privacy unless necessary like in an emergency.

You have to maintain regular contact with program facilitators

Aside from communicating with the student, maintain regular communication with the exchange program facilitators in your area.

Seek their support if you need it. Inform them of any concerns or updates you think they need to be aware of.

They’ll support you throughout the hosting period.

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