Homestay
A Family, Not a Landlord
Your kid isn't moving into a dorm with a stranger. They're joining a family dinner table — with people we've personally vetted, matched, and prepared. Structure, warmth, someone who actually cares how their day went.
Operated through ICES & SEEDS — U.S. Department of State designated programs with 15+ years of compliance track record.
Not All Homestays Are Created Equal
A spare bedroom in the right zip code isn't the same thing as the right family.
We're Picky About Families
Background checks, home visits, in-depth interviews — before anyone gets approved. Your child's safety isn't something we "probably" handle. It's the whole point of the program.
Matched on Who They Are, Not Where They Live
We don't just find a family with a spare bedroom in the right zip code. We match based on lifestyle, values, personality, and what your kid actually needs to feel at home.
We Don't Disappear After Move-In
Regular home visits, parent updates, and a 24/7 support line. You'll always know what's going on — and if something comes up, you've got someone to call who already knows the situation.
How It Actually Works
Three steps. No surprises.
The process is designed to make sure everyone — your student, the host family, and you — knows what to expect before the first night.
- 01
We Listen First
Tell us about your kid — their quirks, their habits, what makes them tick, what drives you crazy. That's what helps us find the right family. Not a form. A real conversation.
- 02
Both Sides Get Ready
We match your child with a vetted host family, then prepare everyone — expectations, introductions, and profiles shared before anyone gets on a plane. No surprises on arrival day.
- 03
Move In, Stay Connected
Your child settles in, starts their routine, and we keep checking in with everyone — the family, your kid, and you. No radio silence. Regular updates and a real point of contact throughout.
What's Included
Everything your student needs to feel at home. No nickel-and-diming.
Their Own Room
A private bedroom in a real family home — not a shared dorm or a couch. Their space.
Meals, Holidays, the Whole Deal
Three meals a day, family game nights, Thanksgiving — your kid is part of it. Not an observer, not a tenant.
Rides to School. Every Day.
Reliable transportation to and from school. One less thing to figure out in a new country.
You'll Actually Know What's Going On
Scheduled check-ins and regular reports back to you. Not radio silence followed by a crisis.
Someone to Call at 2 AM
Round-the-clock emergency support across time zones. The coordinator knows your student's name and situation.
Questions? Good.
Every family's situation is different. Book a free call and we'll walk through what this looks like for your specific student.
Homestay housing rate: ~$725/month
Model the full cost with our budget calculator →Questions About Homestay
Real answers. No PR-speak.
How are host families screened?
Background checks, a home visit, and an in-depth interview — before anyone is approved. Our homestay placements are managed through ICES and SEEDS, two U.S. Department of State-designated exchange visitor programs with 15+ years of compliance track record. Every family is vetted by the organization, not just checked off a list.
What does a typical homestay day look like for my student?
Your child wakes up in their own private room, joins the family for breakfast, gets a ride to school (or takes the bus), comes home to a real dinner, and participates in family activities — movie nights, weekend outings, holidays, the whole thing. It's living with a family, not renting a room from one.
What if the match isn't working?
We find out about it first — through our regular check-ins with your student and the host family. If the placement isn't working, we step in immediately. We're not waiting for a crisis. If a new family match is needed, we make it happen. Your student is never stuck, and you're never left managing a problem from overseas.
How much does homestay cost?
Homestay housing runs approximately $725/month through GLA's program. That covers a private room, all meals, and transportation to school. It's significantly more affordable than campus housing or off-campus apartments — and provides far more support. Our budget calculator can model the full picture including tuition, homestay, and add-ons.
Is homestay available for J-1 and F-1 students?
Yes. J-1 exchange students are placed with volunteer host families as part of the program — that's built in. F-1 students can also use GLA's homestay program as their housing option, separately from their school placement. We coordinate both.
Will my child be safe?
Safety is the whole point — not a selling point we put on a brochure. We only work with families that have passed full background checks, home visits, and interviews. A dedicated coordinator checks in regularly. 24/7 emergency support is available across time zones. We've been placing students in American homes for 15 years. We've solved this.
Your Kid Deserves a Family, Not Just a Room
Take the quiz to see matched programs — or book a free call and we'll talk through whether homestay is the right fit for your student.
Or Just Drop Us a Message
A real human will reach out within 24 hours with a plan that actually makes sense.