What does hosting an STS student mean?

Hosting is opening your heart and home to a high school student from another country. You are expected to provide the same loving/caring environment for them as you would your own family members.

What kinds of families are acceptable?

Single-parent families, families with children of any age, families with grown children or without children. Double-placement is available if there is a host family who is interested.

How do you match students to host families?

We attempt to match students with host families whose hobbies and interests are similar: e.g. arts, sports, music and religious involvement. Host families may request country and gender of student.

What are host family responsibilities?

To provide a comfortable, nurturing and safe environment, school registration, three meals a day, separate bed and a quiet place to study.

What happens if the student is ill or has an accident?

Before their arrival, students are provided with their own medical insurance. When STS student files are forwarded to the host families, extra medical insurance forms and ID cards are included. STS Foundation National Office will provide assistance with filing of claims.

What about spending money?

The student's natural parents agree to send adequate spending money. This money is to provide for social activities, trips, clothes, and school expenses and phone calls home (phone cards). It is suggested that the host family assist the student in setting up a saving or checking account.

What is the length of stay?

Most of our students arrive in August for a 10-month academic stay. They return to their home country in June or July depending on the ending of school. There are a few students who only come for a semester, e.g. August to January or January to June/July.

What is expected of the exchange student?

Our students are here on an academic program. This means they must attend and participate in all classes and maintain a "C" average overall for each subject. The student is required to abide by all STSF student rules and regulations, including all local, state and federal laws. Students are also expected to follow host family rules concerning responsibilities: e.g. chores, curfews (which should be established within the first week).

Are host families paid?

No, but host families who itemize their taxes receive $50.00 tax deduction per month, for each month the student reside in their home. This falls under "Charitable Contributions" for both State and Federal taxes.

When is the best time to inquire about hosting a STS student?

Host Families are recruited year-round. Fill out online application or contact STS National Office at 800-522-4678 or e-mail us: info@stsfoundation.org.