Host Family Abroad

Why host families?

A host family gives you insight into the culture and everyday life of your host country. You become part of the family, celebrate celebrations together, take part in excursions and learn the language faster. For parents, the host family offers security and a contact person on site.

Selection & preparation

Host families are carefully checked by our partner organizations. There are detailed application documents, personal interviews and Home visits. All adult family members must present a police clearance certificate. The organization ensures that the family can provide a safe, well-maintained home and is financially stable.

There is no “typical” host family: some families are young couples without children, others have children of their own, others are pensioners or single parents. What is important is their motivation to take in international students and integrate them as family members. They help you with formalities and see themselves as surrogate parents.

Before placement you will receive a detailed family profile with information about hobbies, profession, religion and place of residence. You can express your wishes (e.g. siblings, pets), and the organization will try to take these into account.

Life in everyday family life

Respect and openness are important. You are not a guest in the hotel, but a Part of the family: participate in household chores, play with younger siblings, and follow house rules. Show interest in traditions, bring a small gift and use meals to exchange ideas. Differences in meal times, manners or leisure activities are normal – they make up the experience.

Many host families expect you to trust them when dealing with authorities or organizing everyday school life; They support you with doctor's visits, bank appointments or if you want to change a course. Don't be afraid to ask questions - talking openly about problems helps avoid misunderstandings.

Conflicts & Solutions

Misunderstandings cannot always be avoided. Important tips:

• Address problems early on – many can be solved through communication.
• Use the support of your local coordinator.
• If there are serious problems, you can request a change of host family. Only a very small proportion of exchange students actually have to change families - most misunderstandings are resolved through open discussions.

Tips for parents

Stay in touch with the host family, but respect your child's independence. Explains medical specialties and allergies in advance and ensures that important documents are translated. Trust that your host family will treat your daughter or son like a family member and will support them with administrative procedures, doctor visits or school questions. An open relationship with the host family helps to counteract homesickness without making it difficult for your child to settle in.

Frequently Asked Questions