How to Become a Host Family (2026): Step-by-Step

Becoming a host family is simpler than most people expect. Here's the whole process, start to finish.

The 3 steps to becoming a host family

Decide what fits

Semester or full year? A teen who shares your interests? Programs help you choose.

Choose a program

This is the big one. Established programs screen students and support you, but they differ. We compare them for you.

Apply & get approved

A short application, a home visit, and background checks. The program guides you through it.

What programs look for in a host family

You don't need to be a "traditional" family or wealthy. Singles, couples, families with kids, empty-nesters, and retirees all host. The core requirements: a stable home with a bed for the student (sometimes shared with a same-gender sibling of similar age), meals, a supportive environment, and passing a background check.

The most important decision: the program

The organization you host through shapes your entire experience, the student matching, the local support, the benefits. That's why we built HostFamilyMatch: tell us about your family once, and we'll compare the programs serving your area and connect you with your best fit. Free, no pressure.

Become a host family in your state

Hosting is arranged locally, so the programs that place students near you vary by state. Start with your state, then fill out the free match form:

become a host family in Texas · become a host family in California · become a host family in Florida · become a host family in Ohio · become a host family in North Carolina · become a host family in Pennsylvania · see every state →

Frequently asked

What are the requirements to become a host family?

You need a stable home with a bed for the student (which can sometimes be shared with a similar-age, same-gender child), the ability to provide meals, a welcoming environment, and to pass a background check. You don't need to own your home, be married, or have children.

How long does it take to become a host family?

Once you apply, approval typically takes a few weeks including the home visit and background checks. Placement timing depends on the program's calendar, academic-year students are usually placed in summer for a fall start.

Can single people or retirees host exchange students?

Yes. Singles, couples, families, empty-nesters, and retirees all successfully host. Programs care about a safe, supportive, welcoming home, not a specific family structure.

Ready to find your best-fit program?

Tell us about your family once and we'll match you with the right exchange program, free.

Get matched free →

How to become a host family