Can a Single Person Host a Foreign Exchange Student?: The Ultimate How-to Guide for Individual Hosts

“Can a single person host a foreign exchange student?” Throughout the 40+ years of supporting students and host families for study abroad and exchange programs, we’ve received this question countless times. Our answer? Not only can individuals host exchange students, but they also can have an equally fulfilling, bonding, and one-of-a-kind experience as their larger family unit hosting peers. 

In this article, we’ll be covering how you can solo host a foreign exchange student, covering topics such as: 

1. Debunking common myths on individual hosting 
2. Reviewing requirements and eligibility to host an exchange student 
3. The benefits of being a host as a single person 
4. Practical tips and tricks  for single hosts 
5. How to become a host for exchange students through Ayusa 

At Ayusa, we’ve spent decades working  with host families and matching them with students, and aim to build and foster communities through our programs. If you’re already itching to host an exchange student, you can start your application here. You can also Get in touch or request information to learn more. 

Can a Single Person Host a Foreign Exchange Student?

Hosting an exchange student can be a transformative experience, not just for the student, but also for the host family. However, there are often misconceptions that deter individuals, especially those who live alone, from considering hosting. Let's debunk some of these myths and explore why single individuals can indeed be wonderful hosts for foreign exchange students, and understand what are actual eligibility requirements to apply.

Five Myths on Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student Alone 

There are dozens of misconceptions on hosting a foreign exchange student and who can host, especially when it comes to being someone who lives alone. Let’s debunk some of the myths that apply specifically to prospective solo hosts, so you know what is hosting: 

• I’m a one-person household. I can’t host.: Many think the family must fit a particular mold like the depiction of a typical nuclear family with a white picket fence. However, no two host families are ever the same, and the world of hosting exchange students is incredibly diverse. Every year, we actually have several one person household host families! 
• I don’t have a large enough home to host: The size of your home isn't as important as the welcoming atmosphere you provide. With Ayusa, for example, you are required to provide a safe, steady place to live for 5-10 months–no huge square footage prerequisite! 
• I won’t be able to afford hosting: Financials can be both a sensitive and common topic of concern for hosts, whether that be if you get paid to host a foreign exchange student or if you have the financial capability to host. However, if you have the means to provide your exchange student three meals a day, as well as basic expenses for room, board, and transportation, then you’re all set! 
• I won’t be able to fulfill emotional responsibilities alone: While it may feel daunting to take care of an exchange student as an individual host, you don’t have to do it alone! With Ayusa, you can always seek support from our Community Representatives (CRs) who support the entire exchange process. If you’re interested in making your impact as a CR, you can apply now!
• I’ll have to give up my independence: For individual hosts, having a space and schedule to yourself might be something you’re worried about letting go. However, hosting can enhance your sense of freedom and purpose by opening your home to new perspectives. You'll still have plenty of time for your own interests while also enjoying the enriching presence of a young person from another culture.

As an individual, you have unique strengths and opportunities to offer as a host for a foreign exchange student. Don't let misconceptions about your living situation deter you from embarking on this rewarding journey! 

Eligibility Requirements for Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student 

Hosting and housing a foreign exchange student can be one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences, but there are certain requirements. With Ayusa, we make sure to offer best exchange programs for high school students by ensuring hosts are suitable candidates for an enriching student cultural exchange experience.  

Different organizations may have varying requirements for hosting a foreign exchange student, but we’ll be going over the checklist of who can host with Ayusa: 

• Host families must be at least 25 years old–there is no upper limit!
• You can provide a loving home: A comfy, safe place to live, sleep, study, and thrive for 5 to 10 months.
• Healthy Meals: Provide three meals a day.
• A Reliable Ride: Host families or friends can provide a ride or students can use public transportation.
• Time and Enthusiasm: Welcome them, love them, listen to them, teach them, show them!

If you are able to match these eligibility requirements, you are most likely able to be a single person hosting an exchange student. If you want to start your hosting journey today, you can reach out to us for more information, or start your hosting application today! You can also look at our FAQs or contact us for any questions. 

Benefits of a Single Person Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student

As an individual host, you have the unique opportunity to provide personalized attention, create a close-knit family dynamic, and make a meaningful impact on a young person's life. These benefits go both ways, as a single person hosting a foreign exchange student brings positives to both the host and the student. Some of these benefits include:

1. Individualized attention and support 
2. Creating a close-knit dynamic 
3. Cultural immersion and integration 
4. Personal growth and development 

Individualized Attention and Support 

As a single host, you have the opportunity to offer personalized guidance and support to the student based on their unique interests and aspirations. Whether it's academic advice, career counseling, or emotional support, you can tailor your guidance to help the student thrive during their time abroad.

Hosting a foreign exchange student as an individual host can allow for intimate one-on-one bonding experiences. From heart-to-heart conversations to shared hobbies and interests, you can forge a deep connection with the student that enriches both of your lives.

Living alone can also provide a calm and stable environment for the student, free from the distractions and dynamics that may exist in larger households. This spatial environment can help students feel more stability and groundedness, helping them feel more able to get individual support. 

Creating a Close-Knit Dynamic 

Living with a single host can create a sense of belonging and familial connection for the student, especially if they come from a smaller or non-traditional family structure. Your warmth, hospitality, and genuine interest in their well-being can make them feel like a valued member of your family, fostering a sense of security and acceptance.

Hosting a foreign exchange student also introduces you to a diverse network of individuals, including other host families, program coordinators, and community members. Through shared experiences and collaborations, you can forge meaningful connections and expand your social circle.

Cultural Immersion and Integration 

As you engage in cultural activities, traditions, and celebrations together, you’ll have a hands-on approach to cultural immersion. Whether you're cooking traditional dishes like French crepes, attending cultural festivals, or learning traditional dances, you'll immerse yourself in the richness and diversity of the student's culture.

Students will also be able to have culturally immersive and diverse experiences as they participate in their exchange program, bond with students in their American high schools, learn about holidays like Fourth of July and Thanksgiving, and develop a sense of community and belonging as you create a safe and loving home environment. 

Both students and hosts can also experience the benefit of language exposure and development. Living with a solo host exposes exchange students to authentic language and cultural contexts, facilitating experiential learning and comprehension. Students develop a deeper understanding of language usage, idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances through real-life interactions with their host, enriching their language and cultural proficiency.

On the other hand, hosts can learn about their exchange student’s first language, developing new language skills and connecting with the student by breaking language barriers and excitedly gaining knowledge on new terminology.

Personal Growth and Development 

Hosting a foreign exchange student plays a vital role in cultivating the next generation of global citizens, who possess the knowledge, skills, and empathy to navigate an interconnected world. In a 2021 study on cultural immersion, research found that immersion significantly helps with the “construction, conception, and the development of self- identity.” As a host, you will help students build their identity and sense of self as they explore this new environment. 

As an individual host, you will also be able to grow mentally and emotionally. Hosting requires flexibility and adaptability, as you navigate differences in language, customs, and daily routines. By embracing change and welcoming new experiences, you can cultivate resilience and adaptability, valuable traits that extend beyond the hosting experience.

Interacting with a student from another country can enhance your communication skills, including active listening, empathy, and cross-cultural communication. As you navigate language barriers and cultural differences, you'll develop the ability to communicate effectively and bridge cultural divides.

Practical Considerations for a Single Person Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student

While being a single person hosting a foreign exchange student is an incredibly rewarding experience, there are practical considerations beyond basic eligibility requirements you can think about before your exchange student arrives. Here are a few considerations we’ll cover to help you answer the question, “Should I host an exchange student?”:

1. Logistical concerns and responsibilities 
2. Ways to maximize your hosting experience 
3. Costs, trips, and other expenses to know 

Can a Single Person Host a Foreign Exchange Student? Logistical Concerns and Responsibilities 

As a host, logistics such as cultural adjustment, transportation, and organization relationships: 

• Cultural adjustment: Be sensitive to the cultural adjustment process that the exchange student may experience and provide support and guidance as needed. Encourage open dialogue about cultural differences, customs, and expectations, and create opportunities for the student to engage with your culture and community.
• Transportation: As we mentioned earlier, Ayusa requires host families to be able to provide rides or be close enough to public transportation. Taking your student to and from school, for example, or knowing bus schedule times, may be small adjustments you need to make in your morning and afternoons to accommodate for your student’s day. 
• Relationships with relevant organizations: Whether this be communicating with our Community Representatives, knowing administrators and teachers at your student’s school, or providing updates to our team, part of hosting involves working with the greater Ayusa community to ensure that both you and your exchange student are having an enjoyable experience! 

Ways to Maximize Your Hosting Experience

If you are a first-time host, having a student grow and live in your home may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to maximize your hosting journey: 

• Set Expectations: Establish clear expectations and boundaries with the exchange student from the outset to create a harmonious living environment. Discuss house rules, routines, and responsibilities, and encourage open communication about any concerns or issues that may arise. Mutual respect is key!
• Engage in Shared Activities: Take advantage of opportunities to engage in shared activities and experiences with the exchange student to foster bonding and friendship, and encourage the student to share their interests and hobbies with you, and be open to trying new things together.
• Encourage Independence: Support the exchange student's efforts to explore their independence and autonomy while providing guidance and assistance as needed. Offer encouragement and praise for their accomplishments and milestones, and celebrate their successes along the way.
• Seek Support Networks: Connect with other host families and support networks for guidance, advice for host families, and camaraderie. With Ayusa, you can always talk to Community Representatives and have access to our 40+ years of hosting knowledge and network–we’ve got your back throughout your hosting journey. 

Can a Single Person Host a Foreign Exchange Student? Financial Considerations 

Before you host a foreign exchange student, you may want to estimate the costs associated with hosting, including food, accommodation, transportation, and incidental expenses. One way to manage this from the get-go is by creating a budget to track your expenses.

You may also want to go on exchange student trips with your student, taking them to local attractions or tourist cities so they can immerse themselves in American culture beyond their school day. Furthermore, you can set aside a contingency fund or emergency savings account to cover unforeseen expenses. Something to note is that students are expected to pay for their own portion of activities such as exchange student trips, so it will not incur additional cost for the host family. 

Budgeting can also be made easier by asking questions on financials to your community representatives and greater Ayusa community, as it is not their first rodeo and will have numerous tips on how to feel well prepared for your foreign exchange student’s arrival. 

How to Become a Single Person Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student with Ayusa 

At AYUSA, our goal is to make hosting an exchange student feel easier to navigate. Our application process is three steps: 

1. Indicate your interest: Fill out our interest form to receive more information and get connected with your local Ayusa representative.
2. Complete your application: Your rep will be able to help you through your application, connect you with other host families, and answer any questions about the hosting experience. 
3. Choose your student: Once your application is approved, your Ayusa representative will work with you to find a student to match your family’s interests and activities.  

Hosting an international student, you can experience long-lasting bonds, develop new friendships, and be a part of the greater hosting community. As one of the best student exchange programs for host families, we have worked with hundreds of families to create invaluable memories between hosts and their students. 

The Lough family is a great example of how hosting can be a life changing experience. Over the years, the Lough’s have hosted 100+ exchange students, and consider each of them as part of their family. 

‍“I’ve learned more by hosting exchange students about what it’s really like in some of the countries than I ever could have if I just listened to the news. The most important thing that I’ve learned is that we are all the same. We might not be the same country, religion, color, whatever. But inside we’re all the same. Everybody is good if we allow that good to come through. And we’ve learned so much from them, and they’ve learned from us.”

Like the Lough’s, your experience as a single person hosting a foreign exchange student can be equally valuable and enriching–and who knows? Maybe you will want to host numerous students throughout the years. 

Start Your Hosting Journey with Ayusa Today! 

Ayusa has been dedicated to supporting both hosts and foreign exchange students for over four decades, and continues to prioritize building safe, nurturing, and global communities through exchange programs. As a non-profit organization and designated J-category sponsor, we are passionate about helping semester exchange programs be an accessible and memorable experience. 

If you’re a student wanting to start your hosting application to  start your journey with 1 of over 1 million exchange students, you can request information and peruse our stories to learn more about how our hosts have worked with Ayusa for foreign exchange students. 

If you’re ready to become a host, feel free to reach out to us for more information, or start your hosting application today! You can also look at our FAQs or  contact us for any questions.