Family Stories

Having an exchange student in your home is incredibly special. You will get to know a new person who will very quickly feel like a member of the family. You will have the chance to present your town, culture and language in a way that you never have before.

Read stories from other families about their experiences as a host family, and from our students about what it’s like to stay with a host family.

Do you want to share about your journey as a host family?

Would you like to share your experiences as a host family in our channels? Send an email to social.media@sts-education.com and maybe you and your family will appear in our channels next time.

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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.