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Why Should I Host an International Student?
Experience a new culture and broaden your own horizons
Develop valuable cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills
Create lasting friendships and international connections
Provide a supportive and caring environment for a student far from home
Make a positive impact on a student's life and help them to achieve their goals.
"Do it! It was an experience we would love to have again." - BGSD Host Family
"Do it! It was an experience we would love to have again." - BGSD Host Family
What do I need to provide as a host family?
What do I need to provide as a host family?
A private bedroom that includes a window, bed, and dresser or closet. Access to laundry and bathroom facilities are also required as well as Internet access.
Three well-balanced, nourishing meals and snacks daily
Transportation to and from extracurricular activities
Ensure that you carry adequate home insurance coverage
Judicious and caring parenting, treating the student as a member of your family
Criminal record check, vulnerable sector check and intervention record check for each adult member living in the home, or who may be staying overnight in the home during the students' stay
"It was a pretty awesome experience. If you are able to open your home and your heart to an international student, I would say do it. Being a part of someone’s experience and being able to share your family was very rewarding. These relationships, although far apart, will be relationships that continue for years. "
"It was a pretty awesome experience. If you are able to open your home and your heart to an international student, I would say do it. Being a part of someone’s experience and being able to share your family was very rewarding. These relationships, although far apart, will be relationships that continue for years. "
-BGSD Host Family
“It was great for our son to bond with someone and embrace a different culture” -BGSD Host Family
“It was great for our son to bond with someone and embrace a different culture” -BGSD Host Family
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if hosting is right for me?
Host families don't need any special qualifications — the most important thing is to be willing to open your heart and treat the student like a member of your own family. When choosing placements for our international students we pair them with families who have similar interests. If learning about a new culture and supporting a student in their academic and personal growth interests you, then hosting might be right for you!
How are host families prepared and supported?
Prior to the student's arrival, host families will participate in an online orientation with the Homestay Coordinator, which goes over the most important information about hosting and gives families opportunities to ask questions. Each family is sent a profile of their student in advance so that the families can contact their students and families prior to the student arriving in Canada. Throughout the student's stay, host families have round-the-clock access to a member of the International Program team, for questions or emergencies. A monthly homestay payment is also provided to offset the costs of hosting.
What is the application process for host families?
Host families complete an application form that includes information about their family, their home, and other general information such as pets. Then, the homestay coordinator will complete a home visit, and family interview. The home visit ensures that the home is safe and suitable for hosting, and the family interview provides information about the family's interests, hobbies, and dynamics. Host parents are also required to submit a vulnerable sector check and intervention record check.
What are host families expected to provide for their student?
A private bedroom with a bed, dresser/closet, access to a nearby washroom and a door with a lock is required. The host family will provide three nutritious meals daily, and foster a patient, caring and friendly home atmosphere where students can learn about Canadian culture. Host families should ensure that students attend school regularly and provide transportation to extra-curricular activities, if applicable. In short, you would provide the same guidance and attention you would want for your own loved ones living overseas.
What happens if we are uncomfortable with a student or the student is uncomfortable with us?
If you or your student is uncomfortable in the situation you can contact us and we will work together to find resolve any issues. In some cases, this could mean a change in the student's homestay placement.
What if a student gets sick while I'm hosting them?
All international students purchase comprehensive medical insurance for the duration of their stay in Canada. In the event that they need emergency medical care, costs will be covered by the insurance provider. An insurance card and policy number will be given to students upon their arrival in Canada, and a 24/7 help line is accessible for immediate support. Students can also access virtual medical service and mental health supports as part of their insurance package.
How many students can I host at one time?
This depends on the agency and the individual student. Some agencies and students request to be the only international student in the home while they are in Canada. In some cases, it may be possible to host two students from different backgrounds, as long as each student has a private bedroom and the host family is able to support both students fully.
Will the students speak English?
Some students will speak English better than others. All students will have some experience with speaking English. Google translate will be your best friend in the beginning but most students will pick up the language quite fast while they are in an English only environment.
Are we expected to cover all of the costs associated with hosting a student?
Black Gold School Division provides a monthly homestay payment to offset costs of room and board as well as normal family activities.
Who do I contact for more information about becoming a host family?
Contact your school principal or email bgsd.international@blackgold.ca
Ready to Apply?
Ready to Apply?
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