Host Families

The Edmonds College Homestay Program is always looking for qualified hosts interested in hosting and interacting with international students. Our emphasis is on cultural exchange. We are incredibly proud of the long-lasting friendships that our hosts and visitors have formed over the years.

• Experience new cultures
  Host families gain a firsthand perspective on another culture through daily interactions with their student. They learn about traditions, languages, and new ways of life.
• Matching services
  Careful matching of families with compatible students based on interests and preferences. 
• Build lasting friendships
  Many families develop lifelong connections with their students, fostering friendships that transcend borders.
• Support international education
  Hosts play a vital role in helping international students succeed academically at the college.
• Flexible commitment
  Hosting options range from short-term stays to a full academic year.
• Earn extra income
  Families receive a monthly stipend of almost $900 to cover the costs of hosting a student.

Edmonds College recognizes many different kinds of families. We define “family” as husband and wife, husband and husband, wife and wife, and single-parent households.

Steps to become a host family:

1. Check the bus system from your house to Edmonds College. You must be within 60 minutes of Edmonds College and have frequent buses running on weekdays and weekends.
2. Send an e-mail to housing@edmonds.edu with your name, phone number, address, and bus numbers and how long it takes to get to Edmonds College by bus. After sending this information, you will receive an e-mail with our orientation information.
3. Complete the Host Family Orientation.
4. Complete your Edmonds College Host Family File. You will receive the forms at the orientation.
5. Have your home visited by a Housing Staff member (scheduled after the Orientation.