Host Family Requirements
STS Foundation welcomes families of all kinds and in every type of community to host exchange students. Single persons or married couples, living in the city or on a farm, with or without kids - host families come in all shapes and sizes!
start an applicationThe most important requirement to become a host family is to have the desire to learn, teach, and provide a loving home by welcoming your exchange student into your home as a member of your family, not as a guest. To ensure the well-being of all exchange students, every host family must also meet certain requirements set forth by the U.S. Department of State, CSIET, and STS Foundation.
Application and Screening
Becoming a host family starts by completing the STS Foundation Host Family Application and screening which includes a home visit and criminal background check.
Room & Board
Host families are required to provide the students with a safe and comfortable place to live, sleep and study, as well as provide them with three meals a day.
Access to Transportation
Host families can provide a ride or facilitate access to transportation for the exchange student to get to and from schools and activities.
Open Communication
STS Foundation Local Coordinators maintain regular contact during the entire duration of the program to provide support and guidance for the host families and students.
Host Family Application Process
The STS Foundation Host Family Application process is designed to help get to know our host families and establish a foundation of success for every placement.
Step 1
Get in touch with an STS Foundation representative in your local area to learn more about becoming a host family. We will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you find a student that will be a good fit for your family.
Step 2
Create your STS Foundation Host Family account and complete your application. Your Local Coordinator will guide you every step of the way and meet with you in person during the application process.
Step 3
Once your application has been fully screened and vetted, you will be able to see all our students waiting for a host family, including a letter, photos, and video they have put together to help you get to know them.
Step 4
After school acceptance is received, the placement is confirmed and your exchange student is notified! You can now start communicating with your exchange student and get to know them before they fly over to join your family.
Learn more about Hosting
Complete the form below to be connected
with an STS Foundation representative near you!
Host Family Requirements
Would you like more information?
"*" indicates required fields
Our Students
STS Foundation exchange students are bright and curious young cultural ambassadors coming from over 30 different countries. All our students are proficient in English, are academic achievers, and demonstrated the character to be successful exchange students.
Learn more about our studentsOur Students
STS Foundation exchange students are bright and curious young cultural ambassadors coming from over 30 different countries. All our students are proficient in English, are academic achievers, and demonstrated the character to be successful exchange students.
Learn more about our students