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 combined 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 on 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 - SRS carefully facilitates the matching arrangements between every international student and their host family, with service options available based on each student's estimated arrival date.
- For a one-time matching fee* you will receive a host family option within 30-90 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.
- The SRS International app, included with all homestay packages, provides resources for students and 24/7 access to StudentRoomStay’s support chat.
*Depending on the matching service selected, SRS will provide a host family option within 14, 30, or 90 days of the matching fee payment. Matches needed earlier may require an expedited fee (in addition to the original matching fee). SRS is unable to guarantee a match in less than 7 days.
SRS places students in homestays throughout the US—from Los Angeles, CA 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 place you with a host family that lives near where you’re studying. Weekly homestay rates will vary depending on your needs, location, and budget. Click the link below to request more information on how to start the process of finding a host family during your time in the United States.
Homestay Hosts
To ensure all students' safety, 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 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 several reasons why 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 your own family would give you back home. In addition, SRS offers a 24/7 support chat line for students who need assistance at any time during their homestay journey.
If you are considering a homestay during your time in the US, make sure you check out StudentRoomStay.
Find a Host Family with StudentRoomStay Today!
Apply for Homestay in the US
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