Online Paperwork Portal!

It is easy to become a Host Family or International Exchange Coordinator (IEC) with our Online Paperwork Portal. Learn how to start your applications process today!

Meet Our Students

Whose life will you change? View our student profiles online now!

Criminal Background Check Portal

All household members 18 and over in prospective host family and IEC households must submit to a criminal background check. Please click here to enter the Criminal Background Check Portal.

How to Host a Student

"This is more than just a ‘neat’ program; it really does have a positive impact and increase understanding among families, schools, and communities. Since hosting we watch the world news in a very different light, feeling much more connected to those far away."

Martin & Laurie
Nevada

Becoming an EF Foundation host family is easy! Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Apply

Pre-apply online or call 1-800-44-SHARE to request an application and receive more information. Our Regional Placement Managers can provide detailed answers to any questions you may have. They’ll also put you in touch with your local coordinator.

After your family has submitted an application, references, and background check forms, your local coordinator will interview all of you in your home. Your local coordinator will also thoroughly explain the hosting experience to you and your family at this time.

Step 2: Select a Student

Should your family be selected to host, your local coordinator will work with you decide on a student who shares your family’s interests. You’ll have the opportunity to see the applications of incoming students, as well as the photo albums they’ve created.

Once you have chosen a son or daughter to host, your coordinator will contact your local high school and secure the student enrollment. You will then receive the Host Family Handbook, an extensive guidebook designed to prepare you to host an international student.

Communicating with your student as soon as possible after selection will allow you to build a relationship early on. This will help ease the transition into your family’s daily life!

Step 3. Prepare for Arrival

Closer to your student’s arrival, you will be invited to a Host Family Orientation. Along with other host families in your community, you will review rules and regulations, go over what to expect during the months to come, and have any remaining questions answered. Meeting other host families in your area is the perfect time to begin the sharing and learning that defines the hosting experience.

Finally, the day that you’ve been waiting for will arrive! Your exchange student will walk through your front door, full of hopes and dreams for the experience ahead. This is just the beginning of an international friendship that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget—EF Foundation will be there to support you 100% throughout the exchange!