StudentRoomStay
As an international student, once you’ve decided where you’re going to go to school, the next step is figuring out where you’re going to live. If you don’t want to or can’t live on campus, and don’t want to deal with the hassle of finding roommates and renting an apartment, another great housing option is a homestay. If you’re interested in a homestay arrangement during your time in the US, StudentRoomStay is a great option.
What is a Homestay?
A homestay is an arrangement by which international students live in the home of an American family during their time in the United States. This might be a basic room-rental arrangement, or you may prefer complete host/family immersion. Generally, you will have your own room, but you might join the family for meals and take part in their normal daily routine. Host families are often families with teenagers or young children, but homestays are offered by anyone. With a homestay students have the opportunity to engage in activities “off the beaten trail” rather than just see the typical tourist sights.
What is StudentRoomStay?
StudentRoomStay (SRS) is dedicated to helping international students get placed in homestays with welcoming host families and reliable housing. With over 25 years of industry experience, SRS has placed thousands of international students in high-quality homestays. How does it work? The SRS homestay experts work to find you the perfect host family based upon your personal preferences, school location and student profile.
Here are just a few things you can expect from the StudentRoomStay Host Family Matching Service:
- Personalized Homestay Matching - For a $300 one-time matching fee* you will receive a host family option within 30 days of the matching fee payment.
- Certified Homestay - All homestays are CSIET certified which means all host families have undergone host training, in-home interviews and thorough background checks.
- Meal Packages and Transportation - SRS offers flexible meal packages and optional airport transportation services.
- 24/7 Support - The SRS support line is available at all times should you need help.
*The SRS team will provide a host family option within 30 days of the matching fee payment. If the student needs a match within 29-14 days, an $300 expedite fee will need to be paid (in addition to the $300 matching fee). Matches needed within 13-7 days will require a $450 expedite fee (in addition to the $300 matching fee). They are unable to guarantee a match in less than 7 days.
SRS places students in homestays located throughout the US—from Honolulu, Hawaii all the way to Miami, Florida. Being close to your college or university’s campus is very important. For a one-time fee of $300, the SRS matching system will get you placed with a host family that lives nearby wherever you’re studying. Weekly homestay rates will then vary depending on your needs and budget. Complete the application form below to request more information on how to start the process of finding a host family during your time in the United States.
Apply for Homestay in the US
Homestay Hosts
In order to ensure the safety of all students, SRS conducts national criminal background checks, in-home interviews, and complete home inspections for all potential hosts. You will be matched with a host family near your school, and your host will provide you with your own bedroom and an agreed-upon meal plan. Your host family will help you learn local customs, how to navigate the local transportation systems, and guide you along the way as you become accustomed to the American way of life. Often, students become lifelong friends with their host families.
Why Choose a Homestay?
There are a number of reasons that international students might choose a homestay over other accommodation options. At the top of this list is the opportunity for cultural immersion. Homestays make it easier for international students to have an authentic American experience. Your host family can help you bridge the cultural divide, boost your English skills, and provide you with the care and support that other housing options don’t offer.
Homestay arrangements are also often safer than other housing options. In a homestay, you have a family looking out for your well-being. Your host family will provide you with the care and oversight that your own family would give you back home. In addition, SRS offers a 24/7 emergency hotline for students who are in crisis.
If you are considering a homestay during your time in the US make sure you check out StudentRoomStay.
InternationalStudent.com is a participant in an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn affiliate fees by advertising and linking to the organization listed on this page.