Student FAQs

The Homestay Experience

For most students who choose to study in the United States, a homestay experience proves among the most rewarding they’ll ever experience. Not only does it present a unique opportunity for you to experience American lifestyle and culture while pursuing your academic aspirations, it also affords you the opportunity to improve your English language skills. It is a wonderful way to meet new friends from all over the world while enjoying the comfort and security of living with a local, caring family.

Homestay Florida has accommodated students from China, Japan, Taiwan, Germany, Serbia, Croatia, and Israel – just to name a few! Homestay Florida strives to make your study abroad experience a memory of a lifetime, and we look forward to making you a valued part of our extended family!

 

Your American Homestay Family

Homestay Florida carefully selects all of its families for homestay through a rigorous screening and orientation process, and all families are regularly evaluated by both the student and Homestay Florida. All participating families must provide room, three meals per day, and transportation to and from school during weekday classes and on weekends for Homestay Florida sponsored activities.

 

Student FAQs


Student FAQs

 

When is the deadline to apply for homestay?

Please feel free to contact us regarding your desired homestay term. Although deadlines vary among schools and camps, we can typically offer placement year around. Back

How do I apply for homestay?

Please complete our Student Online Application and Profile to get started. We use your interests and preferences to best match you with an ideal host family. Back

How much does homestay cost?

Homestay fees vary among schools, as well as across different areas in Florida. Homestay for high school students includes a private bedroom, private or shared bathroom, all meals and school transportation. We offer post graduate students a selection of home accommodations. Fees are collected by Homestay Florida per semester, and once paid are not refundable (as each payment represents our placement commitment to our host families). Back

How does Homestay Florida choose host families?

We carefully screen, vet, and train all interested host families. We also inspect and approve each home and student room. We acquire a detailed family profile, carefully review each application, and match student and host family. All families submit to a background check. Back

How will I get to school or camp?

Students attending any school will either take the school bus or receive host family transportation to and from school. Students are typically placed into homes located within a convenient 15 mile radius to school or camp. Back

I have pet allergies. Can I still participate in homestay?

Yes. There is a section on the student application form where you any advise us of any pet allergies, as well as your preference for living with pets. Back

Will I have Internet access at host family’s house?

Yes. All host families provide the student with wireless internet access. Back

Can I choose my host family?

We carefully match student and host families based upon application profiles and face-to-face interviews (Skype, WeChat, Facetime, etc.). Back

How do I pay the homestay fee?

All fees are paid directly to Homestay Florida either by the student’s family or agency. Fees are collected by Homestay Florida per semester, and once paid are not refundable (as each payment represents our placement commitment to our host families). Shorter homestay terms (language schools, camps, etc.) are collected prior to arrival and formal placement. Back

Do I have to arrange my own transportation to and from the airport?

Transportation to and from the closest airport will be arranged by Homestay Florida at no additional charge to the student.
Students whose itinerary includes a different airport would be responsible for their own transportation. Back

Is it okay if my family or friend stays at host family’s house?

Homestay Florida would be happy to assist you in securing local accommodations for visiting family and friends. Back

How long is my commitment to homestay?

Students are placed into homestay for semester, school year, or camp session. Homestay commitment coincides with the term of a program. Back

Is Homestay Florida available to assist me with any questions or problems?

Yes, the Homestay Florida team is available 24/7 and no question or concern is too small. We are also always available to assist in resolving any misunderstanding or conflicts that may arise. Back

Can I change my host family?

Intervening to resolve any misunderstanding or conflict is what Homestay Florida does best. However rare, and for the best interest of the student, Homestay Florida will promptly assist in securing a more suitable placement. Back

I understand that I will provide a damage deposit. How do I receive it back?

Homestay Florida will inspect your bedroom for cleanliness, as well as for any damage or excessive wear and tear after you move out of your homestay, and refund your deposit accordingly. Back

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