FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - HOST FAMILY
Do the host families receive any monetary compensation for hosting?
The reason for becoming a host family is hospitality, not profit. Host families in 90 percent of our host countries do so voluntarily. In countries where families receive a contribution, it is a small reimbursement for having a student in their home to cover the high cost of living in these countries. This is the exception rather than the rule.
How are host families selected?
The selection of host families is subject to government regulations. Families interested in hosting must make a written application, including references from employers, neighbours or other respected people who know them well. All potential host families must be visited in their home by our Local Area Representative for an extended personal interview. Every family member needs to be happy to host a student. The host family will be required to meet certain criteria and will have reference checks to ensure their suitability.
When will I know who my host family will be?
Host families receive several applications to choose from and have to consider carefully what it means to host a student for up to a year. They then decide which student they feel best suits their family. You will be notified once everything is arranged. This procedure takes time. It is not uncommon for most placements to be made shortly before the start of the programme.
Where does my host family live?
Host families live all over the country, mainly in small towns, suburbs and in the countryside.
What happens if I don’t get along with my host family?
In the beginning there will always be an adjustment period. Be as open-minded as possible, and look upon any difficulties as a learning experience. You will also have your Local Area Representative to turn to. He or she can help you to talk to the host family and maybe arrange a family meeting where you can try to solve the problem together. Remember the key exchange saying is, “it is not right, it is not wrong, it is just different”.
Can I refuse a host family?
No. You have been carefully chosen by your family so we encourage you to meet them and get to know them.
Can a student change host family?
If really necessary, we can move a student. You should remember that you go to the host country in order to learn about their way of life, without seeing them as a reason to move.
What is my host family likely to be like?
Usually middle class families selected for their hospitality and because they like young people and want to share their culture. Host families come in all different shapes and sizes, with or without children.
Will I have my own room?
It can happen that you are asked to share a room with a sibling of the same sex and similar age.
Do you place students in the countryside?
Yes. Very often students are placed in a small or semi-rural community.
Can I call or write to my host family before departure?
Yes, of course, we encourage you to do this as soon as you hear who your host family is. It is a definite advantage to have had as much contact as possible with the family prior to departure.
Do I have to help out in the house?
Definitely. You will be an active member of the family so cleaning up and helping with chores such as doing the dishes or taking the rubbish out will be part of your daily life, just like it is at home.
I am vegetarian/vegan/gluten free. Is that okay?
It is very important to let us know that you have dietary requirements as soon as possible. To find a placement is not easy as food plays an important part of a country’s culture. Let us know and we can discuss with you further.
The reason for becoming a host family is hospitality, not profit. Host families in 90 percent of our host countries do so voluntarily. In countries where families receive a contribution, it is a small reimbursement for having a student in their home to cover the high cost of living in these countries. This is the exception rather than the rule.
How are host families selected?
The selection of host families is subject to government regulations. Families interested in hosting must make a written application, including references from employers, neighbours or other respected people who know them well. All potential host families must be visited in their home by our Local Area Representative for an extended personal interview. Every family member needs to be happy to host a student. The host family will be required to meet certain criteria and will have reference checks to ensure their suitability.
When will I know who my host family will be?
Host families receive several applications to choose from and have to consider carefully what it means to host a student for up to a year. They then decide which student they feel best suits their family. You will be notified once everything is arranged. This procedure takes time. It is not uncommon for most placements to be made shortly before the start of the programme.
Where does my host family live?
Host families live all over the country, mainly in small towns, suburbs and in the countryside.
What happens if I don’t get along with my host family?
In the beginning there will always be an adjustment period. Be as open-minded as possible, and look upon any difficulties as a learning experience. You will also have your Local Area Representative to turn to. He or she can help you to talk to the host family and maybe arrange a family meeting where you can try to solve the problem together. Remember the key exchange saying is, “it is not right, it is not wrong, it is just different”.
Can I refuse a host family?
No. You have been carefully chosen by your family so we encourage you to meet them and get to know them.
Can a student change host family?
If really necessary, we can move a student. You should remember that you go to the host country in order to learn about their way of life, without seeing them as a reason to move.
What is my host family likely to be like?
Usually middle class families selected for their hospitality and because they like young people and want to share their culture. Host families come in all different shapes and sizes, with or without children.
Will I have my own room?
It can happen that you are asked to share a room with a sibling of the same sex and similar age.
Do you place students in the countryside?
Yes. Very often students are placed in a small or semi-rural community.
Can I call or write to my host family before departure?
Yes, of course, we encourage you to do this as soon as you hear who your host family is. It is a definite advantage to have had as much contact as possible with the family prior to departure.
Do I have to help out in the house?
Definitely. You will be an active member of the family so cleaning up and helping with chores such as doing the dishes or taking the rubbish out will be part of your daily life, just like it is at home.
I am vegetarian/vegan/gluten free. Is that okay?
It is very important to let us know that you have dietary requirements as soon as possible. To find a placement is not easy as food plays an important part of a country’s culture. Let us know and we can discuss with you further.
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