Host Family 101: All Your Questions Answered!
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The host family experience is one of the most meaningful components of a Gap Year Abroad. It’s where the real cultural immersion happens—from language to food to daily traditions—and where strong bonds are formed that often last a lifetime.
The good news is, you don’t have to worry about how to find a host family; CIEE takes care of that for you, carefully screening and matching students with families who are excited to welcome them. But before the gap year begins, students and their families often have questions about what to expect. We’re here to help! Let’s dive in.
What is an exchange student host family?
An exchange student host family is a local family who opens their home to you during your gap year. They provide meals, a safe and inviting environment, and a front-row seat to everyday life in your new city. Host families vary widely—some may live in an apartment in the city, others in a home in a small town. Their family makeup also differs: they may be single adults, couples with children, couples without children, or even multigenerational households. What unites them is their willingness to welcome you as part of their family.
How are host families selected?
Host families go through a careful screening process led by CIEE’s in-country staff. To join CIEE’s host family network, they must meet the following criteria:
- They must be 18 years and older.
- They must pass background checks where permitted by local law.
- They must have a home that meets CIEE standards for comfortable and safe living.
Beyond meeting these requirements, families are chosen because they show a genuine interest in sharing their culture, traditions, and language with you.
Do I get to choose my host family?
Not directly. Instead, CIEE’s Local Coordinators match students and families based on personality, interests, and needs. The goal is to create the best possible fit. In most cases, you’ll have the chance to connect with your host family by email or video call before departure, which helps ease introductions.
Have they hosted before? What if this is their first time?
Some host families have welcomed many students over the years, while others are hosting for the very first time. Both experiences can be rewarding in their own way. In every case, CIEE Local Coordinators provide training and ongoing support to ensure the homestay is positive for both you and your hosts.
What should I expect with house rules?
Every family has its own routines and expectations. Some may have curfews, ask you to help with simple chores, or follow cultural customs like removing shoes before entering the house. These rules aren’t meant to limit you—they’re part of daily life in your host country. The best approach is to ask questions early, listen with respect, and be willing to adapt.
What if I don’t like the food?
Trying new foods is part of the adventure! You may discover flavors you’ve never tasted before. At the same time, it’s normal to miss familiar meals or feel unsure about certain dishes. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, you can feel confident that they are taken seriously during the placement process—CIEE takes care to match you with a family who can accommodate your needs. For everything else, communication is key. Let your host family know politely about any strong dislikes or preferences and be open to trying what they offer.
What kind of gift should I bring for my host family?
A small, thoughtful gift is a great way to show gratitude and share a piece of your home. Popular ideas include local snacks, a book about your hometown, or something tied to your hobbies or culture. It doesn’t need to be expensive—what matters most is the personal connection it creates.
What support will my family and I receive during the program?
Support is built into every step of the CIEE experience. Before you depart, you’ll participate in orientations that help set expectations and answer practical questions. Once you arrive, CIEE local staff check in regularly, serve as your go-to resource, and are available if challenges come up. There’s also 24/7 emergency support, so both students and their families back home can feel reassured that help is always just a phone call away.
Will my host family speak English or the local language?
Host families will speak to you in the local language as part of their role in your cultural immersion. This expectation is intentional—it ensures you’re practicing every day in a natural setting, from mealtime conversations to errands around town. While it may feel challenging at first, most students find that these daily interactions help their language skills grow quickly and confidently.
What does daily life look like with a host family during your gap year?
Daily life with a host family is a blend of routine and discovery. You’ll share meals, join in family traditions, and experience the rhythm of local life—from grocery runs to weekend outings. Depending on your program, your days may also include language classes, internships, or cultural excursions organized by CIEE. That means one morning you could be helping set the table with your host family, and the next you’re exploring a historic site with fellow gap students.
The beauty of a gap year homestay placement is how it balances structure and free time. Your host family provides a home base and a sense of belonging, while CIEE programs offer activities that help you dive deeper into the culture. It’s often the little things—conversations over dinner, navigating local transportation, or watching a movie together—that become the most memorable parts of your experience.
Explore CIEE Gap Year Abroad Programs and Learn More
The host family experience is at the heart of a Gap Year Abroad. It’s where you’ll build meaningful relationships, practice language in real-life settings, and experience your host country beyond the classroom. If you’re ready to take the next step, explore CIEE Gap Year Abroad programs today!