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

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Harmony Aisosa

Austria · Female · 16 years old

As you probably already know I’m Harmony. I’ll be your host kid for 5 months plus and to say I’m excited is an understatement. I feel a lot of things mainly joy mixed with fear, fear because I’m leaving everything I’m used to behind and starting from scratch on the other side of earth, joy because I...

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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 ...

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JOAO

Brazil · Male · 16 years old

Hello to my new family, my name is João and I am from Brazil. It will be a pleasure and an incredible experience to live with you all. I am very excited to meet you and share experiences with you. These will be six very important and exciting months for me, and I hope they will be for everyone on th...

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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