Hosting a student

Introduction

As a host family, you are inviting an international student into your home to be part of your family and experience Kiwi life. It is a rewarding and enriching experience and a great way for you and your family to broaden your horizons. Make it a year with a difference and forge a friendship that lasts a lifetime.

View profiles of students currently looking for host families.






Why host?

Hosting a student is a really rewarding and enriching experience for any family. Experience shows that many host families and students remain in close contact for the rest of their lives.

Hosting is a great way for everyone in the family to pick up another language, develop relationship skills, levels of understanding and tolerance, and gain insights into another culture. Even if you don't have any children of your own, or your children are grown up, you can still benefit from the companionship of someone new in the household and gain a new perspective on everyday life.

Or perhaps you or your children have already been on an AFS exchange? Hosting a student is a great way to repay the favour.



Who can be a host?

Anyone can apply to be a host, provided you are over 25. Our families cover a broad spectrum of ethnic, religious, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, both rural and urban.

All host families are different – that's what makes each student's exchange experience unique. You need to offer a warm and caring environment and be happy to host a student on a voluntary basis. In return, we do our best to find a student compatible with your family's interests, personalities and way of life.

View profiles of students currently looking for host families.

If you would like to know more, please complete our Hosting Information Form.



What do hosts provide?

As a host family, you don't have to change anything about how currently you live. That's what overseas students want to experience.

Treat the exchange student as you would any member of your family. Give them the same support, care and comfort, involve your host son or daughter in your daily routine and activities, and provide meals. You'll find it's like adding another son or daughter to your family.

Your host student will require their own bed. Sharing a bedroom with a sibling of the same sex is fine.

Although you will be responsible for your student on a daily basis, the natural parents remain the legal guardians.

Students usually attend the host family's local secondary school. They are encouraged to participate in community service.



What is provided by others?

AFS covers medical expenses, compulsory school fees, as well as some textbooks and travel costs to and from school. Our trained volunteers from your local area also provide support and advice.

The student's natural parents cover the cost of any pre-existing medical conditions, preventative dental and eye-care treatment.

Students bring their own spending money for personal costs and extras such as clothing, sightseeing and special food. They also pay for the cost of any elective subjects that require special materials or excursions.



Where can I get more information?

This Host a Student section has plenty of resources for families wishing to host a student, including information on support available, answers to some common questions and an information video.

You can also contact Michael or Greta on 0800 600 300 or email michael.vandyk@afs.org or greta.purcell@afs.org.

To get the hosting process started, please complete our Host a Student Form.