Connection starts here.

When you host an international exchange student, you’re not just offering a place to stay - you’re opening your door to a new culture, new traditions and a new way of seeing the world. Along the way, you’ll build real connections, share everyday moments and create memories that stick.

It’s easier than you think - and more rewarding than you can imagine.

Over 45 years bringing students to the USA

Connected over 100,000 students with host families

Officially designated by the US Department of State

24/7 support network

Students looking for host families

DE

Isabel Angelika Martina

Germany · Female · 16 years old

Dear Future Host Family, My name is Isabel, and I am writing this letter to tell you a little bit about myself. I am very excited about the possibility of spending an exchange year in the USA. In my daily life, I am an honest and simple person. I like things to be organized and clean, especially my ...

IT

ANNA

Italy · Female · 17 years old

I am very excited for this amazing journey that is waiting for me but first at all, let me introduce to you. I am Anna, I was born on 20th of October 2009 and now I’m 16 years old. I’m from Italy and I live in Castel San Pietro Terme a small town near Imola. I’m someone who is responsible and solar ...

FR

Joa

France · Female · 15 years old

Dear Host Family, Hello My name is Joa Blue I am 15 years old. I was born in Barcelona, Spain, but I have been living in Biarritz for the past 13 years. Biarritz is located in the southwest of France, near Spain and right by the ocean. It’s a place with a big surf culture, and people often call it t...

Learn the hosting basics

Hosting an exchange student with EF is a volunteer opportunity to open your home to an international high school student.

Our community

Student & host family expenses: who pays for what?

Having an extra teenager in your home will likely increase your household expenses, such as gas, water and grocery bills. Here is some guidance on how to best set financial boundaries from the beginning to ensure that both you and your student are on the same page.


Making your student feel at home

Once your exchange student has had a chance to settle in, take some time to help them acclimate to your home. Share your house rules, explain what life is like in your community and discuss some important family activities.

Hear from our host families

EF is here to support you at every step

  • Prepared

    Our students come prepared and have the right expectations for their exchange in the USA.

  • Support

    It’s totally understandable if you have questions about an exchange year. Together we can figure out the best support for your family.

  • Available

    We have representatives all over the USA ready to help out if something comes up. We're available 24/7, every day of the year.

Bring exchange to your school

Shape your school’s culture with EF High School Exchange Year. One of the most influential educational decisions you can make for your students is to welcome exchange students into your school.

Want to learn more about hosting?

Are you ready to experience a new culture at home? Talk with us and start your hosting journey now.

Tell us about yourself

Speak to our EF team

Choose your exchange student

Let’s connect!

Talk to us directly

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