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Become a host family to an exchange student

Enrichen your everyday life by becoming a host family to a lovely high school student! Becoming a host family is a meaningful experience that will make you get to know a different culture, and not least, a friend for life that you and your family will create many lovely memories with.

Submit your interest today and we will tell you more about being a host family!

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Do you want to become a host family?

Do you want to know more about becoming a host family? Express your interest in the form below. We will contact you and provide you with more information. An interest is, of course, not binding.

FAQ

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  • Why do you recommend us to become a host family?

    Being a host family is a great way to increase the understanding of other cultures and people. You get an extra family member to cherish and a new sibling for your children. It is also an opportunity to prepare for an academic year abroad, if one of the children of your family are planning to study abroad.

  • How do I become a host family?

    You register your interest, and will then get an introduction of the students that are coming to New Zealand. STS will do a home visit and thereafter you will get to choose a student that you believe will be a good fit for you and your family.

  • Can the host family choose students themselves?

    Yes, the host family will select the student they feel is a good match for their family. 

  • Is it possible to be a host family for less than a year?

    Yes, you can choose to be a host family for a whole year or a semester. Sometimes we also need a so-called “welcome family” for a shorter period (minimum 3 months).

  • Will the host family get compensation?

    Being a host family is a voluntary initative. However STS in NZ do pay a weekly contribution towards costs to their host families. Being a host family is a unique experience, it is important that the exchange student feels like a family member.