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Become a Host

Why host an international student?

Hosting an international student is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a young person’s life while enriching your own. By welcoming a student into your home, you create a supportive environment for them to explore and understand a new culture. At the same time, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the daily life, traditions, and values of another country.

This immersive experience helps students improve their language skills, broaden their cultural understanding, and develop a global perspective. As a host, you’ll have the chance to share your own culture, traditions, and values while building connections that bridge cultures and create lasting memories.

Who are our students?

Our students come from a variety of countries, age groups, and cultural backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. What unites them all is a shared desire to immerse themselves in American culture in a meaningful and authentic way.

By hosting, you’ll not only play a key role in their journey of discovery but also expand your own horizons through this rewarding cultural exchange.

Application Process

Complete the online Host Application
Get Started

Frequently Asked Questions by Hosts

Who can host with ISP?

At ISP, we welcome hosts from a wide range of backgrounds and living arrangements, ensuring that we can create the perfect match for both students and hosts. Whether you’re a single person, a couple, a nuclear family, or a retired senior, your unique household can offer a valuable and enriching experience to a student.

We also understand that hosting doesn’t mean being at home 24/7. For those with busier schedules, we thoughtfully place older, more independent students who can thrive in a supportive yet flexible environment. This tailored approach ensures a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Join us in making a meaningful impact by opening your home and heart to a student!

Do hosts receive payment?

Yes, hosts receive a stipend based on their location and the specific program they’re hosting with. For details about stipend rates in your area, please contact us. Depending on the program, stipends are either paid monthly at the beginning of each month or provided as a lump sum at the start of the student’s stay.

What do hosts have to provide?
  • A safe, supportive, and stable home.
  • A private bedroom with a desk, dresser, closet, desk, chair, and adequate lighting in the bedroom.
  • Breakfast, dinner, and sometimes lunch (depending on the student’s program).
  • A wireless internet connection.
  • Flexibility, patience, and kindness as students acclimate to American culture.
What is the duration of the student’s stay?

ISP provides a variety of programs, including an academic year or semester high school program, college homestay programs lasting 2-3 months (with an option to extend), and short-term immersion camps ranging from 1 to 4 weeks.

When do students arrive?

Students arrive year-round! Whether for summer programs or Fall and Spring semesters, our ongoing arrival schedule ensures a steady stream of fresh and exciting hosting opportunities.

Can I choose the student assigned to my home?

Absolutely! While we provide recommendations to help you find a great match, the final decision is always yours.

What Our Staff Provides

We are dedicated to making your hosting experience as seamless and rewarding as possible. Here’s how we support you every step of the way:

Personalized Recommendations

Thoughtful suggestions for students we believe would be the perfect match for your home and lifestyle.

Dedicated
Support

A Program Coordinator assigned to you, plus a 24-hour helpline for any questions, problem-solving, or additional support you may need.

Flexibility, Patience, and Kindness

Our team brings empathy and understanding to every interaction, ensuring your hosting journey is as enjoyable as it is meaningful.

Host Testimonials

“I find it enjoyable learning about different cultures thanks to hosting my students and watching them grow into confident young adults. I’ve hosted a student that really enjoyed our home and stayed with us for 3 years. She still keeps in touch and visits often.”

Josie

Host since 2017

“Hosting is a fun experience since we get to interact and get to know the students everyday. We have a student from over 25 years ago who visited and stayed with us for a few days. She brought her husband and grown up children with her!”

Mathy

Host since 2007

“Since my kids are all grown up and out of the house it gives me the feeling of having kids again. Another rewarding aspect of hosting is that I still hear from some of my students who transferred to universities around the U.S. after staying with me!”

Matthew

Host since 2019