Host a High School Exchange Student!

Host families are U.S. volunteers who provide a safe and caring home for exchange students for the duration of their semester or school year in the United States. 

Students hope to experience life as a member of their American host family. Host families gain exposure to a new culture and enjoy sharing their traditions and community with a new family member!

Host families come from various backgrounds and family compositions. If you have a love for global culture and a heart for helping the next generation of global leaders, we’d love to hear from you!

Please complete the contact form below to receive information about available students and view available student profiles!

“We choose to host exchange students to broaden the horizons of our young children. We want them to know that the world is big with many wonderful cultures. Our boys have embraced that. They love looking at the map of the world to point out where our exchange students call home.”
– Kelly L.

Request More Info FAQ's

Host Family Responsibilities

Host Families provide their exchange student with the following:

  • A separate bed (with frame) and place to study.
  • Meals at home.
  • Transportation to school activities and events.
  • Guidance and encouragement as the student adjusts to daily life in the US.
  • An opportunity to participate in family activities and tradtions!

Students pay for their own personal expenses through a monthly allowance provided by their natural parents. All students have insurance coverage for the duration of their program. CETUSA carefully selects and prepares students so that host families can be confident their student is motivated, proficient in English, and excited to join your family and community! Additionally, host families are supported by a CETUSA local coordinator who lives in the host family’s local region.

Host Family Benefits

Organized cultural exchange programs began to grow after World War II, as a way for the United States to build peace and mutual understanding across nations through cultural immersion and international friendship. Cultural exchange continues to fulfill this mission! Many of host families describe additional benefits to hosting, including:

  • The opportunity to learn first-hand about another culture.
  • The chance to become even closer to your own family while developing a lasting connection with a new exchange son/daughter.
  • The potential for future travel opportunities.
  • The opportunity consider your own culture and traditions with fresh eyes.
  • The fulfillment that comes with helping a young person grow into a more confident, mature and adaptable adult.
  • Tons of opportunities for lifelong memories!
inbound HS Rebecca Emery