🏠 Become a Host Family

Welcome to POLY Languages Institute’s Homestay Program! We invite local families in Irvine and Los Angeles to support international students by opening their homes and sharing their everyday lives.

Hosting a student is a meaningful opportunity to foster cultural exchange, help someone adapt to life in the U.S., and build lifelong connections.

🌍 Why Host a Student?

As a host family, you play a key role in a student’s educational and cultural experience. Hosting offers:

  • Cultural exchange — learn about new countries and traditions
  • Friendship — build genuine connections across borders
  • Personal fulfillment — make a real difference in a young person’s life
  • Monthly stipend — help offset household costs

đź’¬ “Hosting gave our family a deeper appreciation for other cultures, and we’re still in touch with our student today.”
— Host Family, Los Angeles

🏡 Who Can Apply?

We welcome individuals and families who:

  • Live within commuting distance of our Irvine or Los Angeles campuses
  • Can provide a furnished private room and a clean, safe, English-speaking home
  • Are open to supporting students emotionally and culturally
  • Have a flexible, respectful attitude toward different backgrounds

đź’˛ What Are the Benefits?

  • A monthly stipend for each student you host
  • Opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange
  • Support from our staff to help you and your student adjust smoothly
  • The joy of making a difference in a young person’s life

đź“‹ How to Get Started

Becoming a host is easy. Here’s what to expect:

  1. Complete the Host Family Application
  2. A staff member will contact you for a brief screening and home visit
  3. Once approved, we’ll work to match you with a student based on your availability and preferences

đź“ť Note: Background checks and photo submissions are part of the application process.

📸 What Photos Should I Provide?

The application asks you to upload:

  • Exterior of your home
  • Common living areas (kitchen, living room)
  • Student bedroom(s) and bathroom(s)
  • (Optional) Photos of household members or amenities like backyard, workspace, or recreation areas

These help students feel confident and informed before arrival.

âť“ Questions?

We’re happy to answer them. Contact us with any questions.