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.

Contact us

If you are interested in becoming a host family, please call us on 0800 991 991 or e-mail on highschool@sts-education.co.nz

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.