There is still time to host a high school exchange student this fall. Students from around the world are coming to America for the 2017-2018 school year! Students are 15-18 years old and attend your local high school for a semester or full academic year.
Volunteer host families are carefully matched with a high school exchange student based on a number of compatibility ratings, such as activities and interests, country of origin, and gender.
Host families provide the high school exchange student with room and board, as well as an authentic American family cultural experience. The student, meanwhile, shares their culture and provides the family with an experience they will never forget.
THE ACADEMIC YEAR PROGRAM
Do you long to travel, to experience new cultures? Why not bring the world into your own home by hosting an exchange student? Our Academic Year Program is a cultural exchange between American host families and international students coming to the US to study for a semester or an academic year. We are a US Department of State-designated, CSIET-certified J-1 sponsor program with over 35 years of experience. We believe building these meaningful relationships is the best way to create a more peaceful world. Help us change the world – sign up to be a host family today!
WHY CHI?
What makes our program special is the emphasis on connection and cultural exchange. CHI strongly believes in the power of the homestay experience to promote trust and understanding among nations and to build a more peaceful world.
We also truly care about your experience. Our national field staff provides a strong network of daily support for families and students. They are knowledgeable and experienced, and they work to supervise your program with efficiency, patience, and enthusiasm.
HOW TO HOST
The heart of this program is all about building a unique, life-long relationship with a student from another country and culture. Welcome the world into your home and become a host family today!
BECOMING A HOST FAMILY IS EASY!
- Contact us through this website or through your Local Coordinator
- Fill out the online application
- Complete the vetting process
- Wait to be matched with a student
- Get excited!
YOU CAN EXPECT TO:
- Receive orientations and materials to help you prepare for this exciting experience before your student arrives.
- Provide three meals a day and a welcoming home to your student for 5 to 10 months.
- Meet on a regular basis with your coordinator who will provide you with the support and knowledge to make this experience the best it can be!