Welcome letter to exchange student from host family Now is a great time to think about things you can do to make them feel comfortable in their new home. This section governs Department of State designated exchange visitor programs under which foreign secondary school students are afforded the opportunity to study in the United States at accredited public or private secondary schools for an academic semester or an academic year, while living with American host families or residing at Hosting is a win-win for both families and the foreign exchange students that stay with them. The program is run entirely by dedicated volunteers, which helps keep costs low. You’re actually living in your host country as a member of that community. reply to this thread Broaden Your Family’s Horizons Many host families regard hosting an exchange student as a way to broaden their family’s outlook on cultural diversity. Send a welcoming message before the student’s arrival to show your excitement to welcome your exchange son or daughter in your family. Mar 16, 2021 · Here are my top 10 things you should know before you host an exchange student that will hopefully ease any concerns you have and help you more fully enjoy this amazing experience! 10 Tips for Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student Note: this information applies to high school students coming on a J1 Visa only. This exchange is an opportunity for mutual learning 3. One way to initiate this connection is by writing a heartfelt letter to them. The benefits of hosting an exchange student for your family, reasons to host and a video of what it is like to be a host family. Congratulations! Your life is about to change forever as you welcome a new child into your family. Host families aren’t compensated financially. and start school on time while the Local Coordinator continues to search for a permanent host family. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program. Acknowledge the student’s birthday and other special occasions. 1. Department of State, we would like to thank you for your decision to host an international exchange student. This section governs Department of State designated exchange visitor programs under which foreign secondary school students are afforded the opportunity to study in the United States at accredited public or private secondary schools for an academic semester or an academic year, while living with American host families Welcome to the U. While hosting can seem daunting, STS Foundation provides first-time host families with plenty of support through our Local Coordinators and materials to help you prepare for the journey. Thank you! Note that this thread has not been updated in a long time, and its content might not be up-to-date anymore. First and foremost – have fun! Hosting is a rewarding Hosting Japanese exchange students can be an enriching cultural experience. One of these include submitting a formal letter for exchange student. Host for a semester, full school year, or a brief welcome period. Jun 7, 2023 · What Is a Welcome Letter Welcome letters promote positivity, fosters camaraderie, and give the person a sense of importance and inclusion. The host family is already trying to plan things to do that include you and appeal to your interests, so I would let them know that. You’ll experience a new culture When students sign up for CIEE High School USA, they’re asked to “live as a member of your host family, respect the rules and customs of your host family, and accept the responsibilities given to you. By welcoming a foreign exchange student into your home, you are truly making the world a better place—one student, one family, one community at a time. Department of On behalf of the U. Two references that you have known for at least 2 years that are not family members. Keep First time host family here. ). May 19, 2022 · Studying in another school can be stressful, especially when it comes to the documents you have to submit. Learn about the Rotary Youth Exchange, and understand the rules and requirements students are expected to follow. In this blog article, we will provide you with templates, examples, and samples of letters to host families. Jan 23, 2018 · Whether you are teaching in a homestay or studying high school abroad, here are essential tips for writing a personal introduction letter to your future host family. In this handbook, you'll find rules, timelines, contacts, and other important program information about studying abroad in the USA. People-to-people exchanges are a valuable tool of foreign From arrival to departure, a lot goes into a cultural exchange program. Students cannot drive or operate any motorized vehicle while enrolled in a foreign exchange program. A resource guide for students and host families revised May 2023 Welcome! Dear iE exchange student, dear host family, Welcome to your international experience! You are part of the U. A welcome letter might be delivered to fresh consumers and buyers in commercial contexts as a way to thank them for choosing to work with the organization. A good practice is to always have an arrival family fully vetted that is willing to act as the welcome family for the first week or two after the student arrives The host family is a key component for the exchange experience, since they welcome the exchange student into their home and through their family structures, community involvement, interests and customs the exchange student is really able to get involved, instead of looking at the culture from an external “tourist” perspective. Host Family Letter Dear host family, I am already very excited about getting to know you. It is not necessary to be a Rotarian, to be married, nor to have children at home to be a host family for an exchange student. Your hospitality will create a 22 CFR - § 62. The language, the people, the public transportation system, CBS and subjects, your new home, your new roommates: EVERYTHING is new. Here are five templates for writing a welcome letter to foreign exchange students, designed to address various aspects of their arrival and stay. At first, foreign exchange students will probably be excited, but this may be followed by depression. So you’ve decided to host an exchange studentcongratulations! You are about to embark on an exciting journey that will leave a positive impact in your home, community, and the wider world. 2. The purpose of a welcome letter to foreign exchange students is to provide a warm and informative introduction to the school, host family, or community. Welcome Letter to Potential Host Family - From German Exchange Student, Elisabeth Dear Host Family, My name is Elisabeth. Expand your Family's Horizons. Department of State’s BridgeUSA Exchange Visitor Program, a program built around public diplomacy and the desire to foster peaceful relations throughout the Before your student arrives: Participate in training and orientation sessions offered by your Rotary District. Former/current exchange students, what did your host family do that you loved, or what could they have done better? I want them to feel like part of the family and not some stranger in our home. This allows the exchange student to come to the U. . I know that you and your wife don't have any children. Adjusting to a new country and culture can be challenging for exchange students. Host Family Application Form Include with completed application form: An image of your family with a short letter to the student about your family. However, this experience can be very rewarding for both your family and your exchange student as you share language, lifestyle and culture. There are students you get along with immediately. I’m double-hosting two students and I want to make sure they feel welcome, safe, and happy. Now think of the family you hope would welcome them during their stay. Sep 24, 2025 · Writing a host family reference letter can be a daunting task, but it is an important part of the process when hosting an exchange student. You might be at a stage where you have no idea about how everything around you works. Department of State’s BridgeUSA Exchange Visitor Program! On behalf of the U. Few experiences are more rewarding and fulfilling than granting an international student the dream of studying in America. Our dedicated host families open their doors and hearts to offer students a home away from home. 2,000+ Students come to the U. Nov 13, 2025 · Explore how to become a host family for international students. View the foreign exchange student introductory letter from the United States Department of 22 CFR - § 62. While awaiting the moment that your exchange student steps off of their plane and into your family, AYA has developed this host family Handbook for families who are hosting for the first time or as a refresher for those who have already experienced this joy. As a host family you are not expected to help students apply to US schools or drive students to college test preparation services or campus visits. We provide you with the information you need through our Host Family Orientation meetings and this Information Booklet. Sample greeting letter from exchange student to host family. 25Secondary school students. Exchange students may go through mood swings as they adjust to their new home. Each year, ASSE and its affiliates place several thousand exchange students, ages 15 to 18, in host families like yours throughout the world. Host Families I am interested in hosting. Whether it’s to accept invitations, collect fees, or request, a letter is simply a highly corporate or academic correspondence. The exchange student is a guest in your home and in our country Feb 13, 2017 · Writing letter to Japanese Host family Dear visitor, if you know the answer to this question, please post it. Once completed, foreign exchange students will be able to access a plethora of information regarding their upcoming trip to Kentucky (ie. You are about to begin your international exchange adventure, one of the most profound and meaningful opportunities in culture, education, and life that you can experience. Single persons or married couples, living in the city or on a farm, with or without kids - host families come in all shapes and sizes! start an application Hosting an international student will not only broaden your global world perspective, but will enrich and educate your family and community in ways you never imagined! Join ICES today and become a host family for an international high school exchange student. The key requirement is a willingness to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for the student. Things that your A WArm Welcome to the ie exchAnge ProgrAm! Dear iE Exchange Student and Host Family, Welcome to your international exchange journey! You are now part of the U. Thank you again for your commitment to international cultural exchange! In return, your exchange student will bring to your family a bit of his or her homeland. Parents of outbound students are required to host a student for a minimum of 3 months. There's a lot to consider and prepare before hosting a foreign exchange student. During your student’s exchange: Provide a safe and How to become a host family for exchange students If you’re wondering what it takes to become a host family, we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you. Host an International Exchange Student. We meet with and provide orientation training to the exchange students upon their arrival. When writing a letter as an exchange student, it's important to maintain a clear and polite format to ensure effective communication. Start with a proper greeting, followed by a brief introduction of yourself, including your name, home country, and the purpose of your exchange. I haven't been to abroad before, so I really appreciate this opportunity to live with you. It goes without saying that the Rotary Youth Exchange Program could not exist were it not for the willingness of families to open their homes to students they have never met. Being an exchange student is a challenging, rewarding and fun experience. Nov 11, 2025 · In this post we’ve compiled a list of welcome messages to international students—from thoughtful and heartfelt to fun and lighthearted. Program administration. Not only does it provide an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture firsthand, but it also offers a chance to form lasting relationships and contributing to global understanding. You’ll live like a local and become immersed in the culture. These resources will help you to write a letter that is clear, concise, and heartfelt. You wonder if they will keep in contact, will the remember you in years to come? Did they have a wonderful year? They are worried about going home to a country that for them basically stopped time while they were gone This exchange of cultures and ideas can lead to lifelong connections, making the host family experience a rewarding journey for everyone involved. 2 reactions · 1 comment Host Families Needed for Exchange Students in Virginia Summarized by AI from the post below Lee Richards The King William Informer 27w · Public FriendsSeveral area school districts have now closed their application window for exchange studentsBut these students are still waiting for host families. Establish communication with your incoming student and extend your excitement to welcome them into your home. Congratulations! In addition to the host family orientation you completed as a part of your application, you may also meet with your IEC in person before your student’s arrival. PART 62—EXCHANGE VISITOR PROGRAM 62. Whether it’s sharing meals, celebrating holidays, or having everyday May 20, 2025 · Read a high school exchange student's emotional thank you letter to her host family at the end of her program. It’s important to sit down with your visiting student and talk about these early to avoid misunderstandings. Jun 2, 2024 · We are thrilled to have you join us as an exchange student and can’t wait to share the incredible experiences that await you. High School exchange programs have been a part of U. Nov 19, 2021 · Advisory Letters Au Pair Host Family Appreciation Letter (2025) (PDF) Au Pair Welcome Letter (2025) (PDF) College or University Student Letter (2025) (PDF) Camp Counselor Welcome Letter (2025) (PDF) Intern Welcome Letter (2025) (PDF) Newly Validated Exchange Visitor Email (2022) (PDF) Professor Welcome Letter (2025) (PDF) Secondary School Student School Admin Appreciation Letter (2025) (PDF) […] May 21, 2020 · What is a welcome family? A welcome family provides a home and a warm welcome for a student for a few weeks to a couple of months. Its purpose is to make students feel valued, informed, and excited about joining the institution. A resource guide for students and host families revised June 2023 Welcome! Dear iE exchange student, dear host family, Welcome to your international experience! You are part of the U. On behalf of the U. Your student has only been given a brief overview of your family including your name, age, address, occupation, religion, hobbies, pets and community size as well as the letter you wrote in your application to host. The YES Canada Homestay Program Are you looking for an international experience without the travel? Look no further as our Canada-wide homestay program is the perfect opportunity for your family to welcome an international student into your home. Often, students live with a host family abroad. May 24, 2024 · This letter is an important way to establish a positive relationship with your host family and show your appreciation for their kindness. Dec 20, 2022 · Dear American Host Family: Welcome to the U. Becoming a host family is a remarkable opportunity to open your doors, hearts, and minds to a new culture. Learn tips and ideas, and view a sample beginning-of-the-year letter for students and parents. As a host family for a Rotary Exchange student, you have agreed to assume the parental responsibility for this young International Ambassador. However, as a first-time host family, it's natural to have questions about what to expect. Ayusa International is a non-profit high school exchange organization dedicated to developing the next generation of global leaders and world citizens. The letter serves as a recommendation for the host family and is a crucial factor in determining whether the student will be placed with them. This child may not look like you, may not speak English fluently, and will likely have cultural traits different from yours. Take a closer look at how the exchange process works, and what to expect at each phase as a host family for an ISE exchange student. Saying goodbye to your exchange student Your amazing 6 months to a year with your student is drawing ever so quickly to an end. Access the CASE Student Handbook here. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited. Further things to consider when writing introduction letters to event organizers Many students are wondering how they should write their host family letter as part of the application process to be an exchange student abroad! Here are some tips to write a good host family letter. May 28, 2024 · How do you write a letter to a host family? Learn how a Dear Host Family letter can help make a positive impression and put you ahead of other applicants. You wonder how it will be. This journey is not just about academics; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, make lifelong friendships, and create unforgettable memories. Help Aug 20, 2019 - Explore Charlia Killingsworth's board "Foreign exchange student" on Pinterest. Sample Welcome Letter Welcoming Foreign Exchange … hosting, defining the role that exchange students play in the host family, outlining the skills needed by host parents and discussing the effect of culture on the host family/exchange student relationship. People-to-people exchanges are a valuable tool of foreign policy. It aims to ease the transition into a new cultural and academic environment, provide essential information, and offer support and resources. If you need to introduce yourself to a new host family or figure out how to say thanks after an incredible year, our host family letter example has you covered. Get in touch with your exchange son or daughter The exchange organization will provide you with the student’s contact information. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to write an effective host family reference letter and High School exchange programs have been a part of U. Your exchange student’s arrival date is approaching, and you’re excited and maybe even a little nervous about integrating a new family member into your home. This video is used to help future host families get to know you a bit better, imagine themselves welcoming you in their home, and last but not least, assess if they are the right host family for you and if you are the right exchange student for them! This is called the "matching" of a student and a host family. Jackson, Although I haven't seen you before, I really thank you for kindly offering to be my host family in Canada. Jun 4, 2019 · So guys: Welcome to your exchange. I have mild food allergies (no anaphylaxis, just a bit of itching in the ears when I eat the wrong thing) and I was wondering if I should write it into the letter? Does host-families appreciate the honesty or is it just a disadvantage?. boarding schools. Approximately 20,000 exchange students from around the world participate in this program each year. Selection and volunteer vetting of the host family must be completed prior to the host club finalizing the inbound student’s guarantee form. We hope this guide helps you to know what to expect and to make the adjustment for your family and your student as smooth as possible. 25 Secondary school students. every year from 90+ countries with AFS-USA. Oct 7, 2024 · A well-crafted welcome letter can make a significant difference in helping these students feel at home and excited about their new adventure. View the host family introductory letter from the United States Department of State. You’ll be placed with a host family and attend a local school. By becoming a welcome family, you’ll be the first family an exchange student meets when they arrive in the U. and be able to experience many “firsts” with Sample Band 9 Letter Dear Mr. This section governs Department of State designated exchange visitor programs under which foreign secondary school students are afforded the opportunity to study in the United States at accredited public or private secondary schools for an academic semester or an academic year, while living with American host families or residing at Aug 13, 2023 · How to Say “Dear Host Family” Letter in Spanish Introduction When preparing to embark on an exciting journey as an exchange student, one of the most important things is to establish a good connection with your future host family. Embrace a foreign high Jun 6, 2016 · Dear host daughter, When the idea of hosting an exchange student for a year came to my mind witnessing a friend host for a few years, there were fear and also uncertainty. Here are some tips for what to include in your Foreign Exchange Student Host Family Letter and Welcome Letter: Introduce Your Family: Share information about each family member, including names, ages, interests, and hobbies. Hosting an international student truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that helps you become a more global citizen. Then send a next letter with questions after they respond. S. Greene, My name is Caroline Hague and I am an exchange student about to participate in an English Language Training course in London. Each school year, thousands of American families take the leap and welcome an exchange student into their hearts and homes. The secondary school student program is one of many ways foreign nationals participate in people-to-people exchange programs in the United States. YFU USA walks you through the process to create a rewarding cultural exchange experience. Our organization has proudly facilitated programs for over 20,000 students from over 90 countries around the world. Our network of loving volunteer host families resides in all 50 states and represent the diversity of American life. Thank you very much that you give me the possibility to live in your family and to get to know the life in your country. Welcoming an exchange student into your home can be an enriching experience for both your family and the student. If you host an exchange student, you know that one student is in good hands and is in a position to leave with a positive impression of your country. Purpose. An image of the room where the student will be sleeping. Single individuals, empty nesters, childless couples, and families with young or high-school-aged children all make excellent hosts. weather, things to do, etc. Because this often happens in March or April all the families are not always identified. (a) Purpose. Department of State, we would like to welcome your decision to host a secondary school student. Department of State, we would like to thank you for your In summary, anyone who wants to make a positive first impression, provide key information, and show appreciation or enthusiasm can benefit from using a sample welcome letter. And we will, throughout the exchange period, be in contact with both you and the Exchange student to answer questions, address concerns, and resolve problems. Department of State’s BridgeUSA Exchange Visitor Program, a program built around public diplomacy and the desire to foster peaceful relations throughout the world. The secondary school student (November 26, 2010) Purpose. Steps to Become a Host Family for Exchange Students Becoming a host family for exchange students is a rewarding experience that opens your home and heart to individuals from diverse cultures. Most IECs have hosted or supported students from all over the world, and their experience is invaluable in preparing We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. This section governs Department of State designated exchange visitor programs under which foreign secondary school students are afforded the opportunity to study in the United States at accredited public or private secondary schools for an academic semester or an academic year, while living with American host families or residing at accredited U. I’m in the process of renovating bedrooms and bought all new furniture. Please let us know of any families you think have the willingness and resources to help one of our exchange students. While many host families choose to welcome students year after year, the rewards begin immediately, from the moment your first student walks through the door. Preparing to welcome an international Boarding School student into your home is an exciting time. When to find host families • Make recruiting host families a year-round activity! Start in November, and keep at it so by the District Youth Exchange Committee meeting in early spring to assign inbound students you will have host families lined up and will be sure of the number of students your club will be able to host. See more ideas about foreign exchange student, exchange student, student. You are all full of anxiety the closer it gets. In Host an International Exchange Student! Welcome a high school exchange student into your heart and home! Join the thousands of caring volunteer host families across the United States who are rewarded with an amazing cultural exchange experience and lifelong global friendships. and Mrs. (2) Prior to the student’s departure from his or her home country, sponsors must advise both the exchange student and host family, in writing, of the respective family compositions and backgrounds of each, whether the host family placement is a permanent or arrival placement, and facilitate and encourage the exchange of correspondence between Revised May 2020 2 NWSE HOST FAMILY HANDBOOK WELCOME HOST FAMILIES! Welcome to NorthWest Student Exchange (NWSE). I’m writing the letter that host-families read and pick which exchange students they take in, I just need help with one thing. 1 day ago · Discover our easy to follow Dear Host Family letter guide and create an awesome letter that makes host families desperate to get to know you. Doubts and nerves are understandable, especially if this is your first time opening your home to an international student. Next, share your experiences, expectations, or any questions you might have about the program or host country. Before new employees begin their jobs, companies frequently send them welcoming letters. 7K subscribers in the exchangestudents community. My name is Jana Greifelt. BridgeUSA programs allow you to experience first-hand the richness and diversity of a culture different from your own Host Family Requirements STS Foundation welcomes families of all kinds and in every type of community to host exchange students. You are a member of a host family and the student will soon be there. You’ll learn the language and gain invaluable international experience. Sep 1, 2025 · Hosting a foreign exchange student may expose your family to another culture and provide you with a sense of fulfillment from helping a student enrich their life. Ask your host families what time of year is most convenient for them to In all cases, sponsors must notify both the host family and school prior to the exchange student's arrival in the United States whether the placement is for an academic semester, an academic year, or a calendar year. Student Participating Welcome to our Host Family Project! A project where cultures meet, and friendships are formed: We provide our international students with a unique opportunity to experience everyday life in Germany first-hand while pursuing their academic goals. Aug 7, 2019 · This is part 3 in our series on host family tips. Aug 10, 2025 · The Immediate Benefits of Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student Hosting foreign exchange students can be one of the most rewarding decisions your family makes. The organisation A Letter to a Host Family by Maggie Liu Original Letter 99 / 1 / 5 Dear Mr. We’ve put together the most important things for you to remember to help you to be a great host family for an international student. ” Additionally, every household has its own rules and customs. Here are seven reasons why you should welcome an exchange student into your family: 1. By connecting extraordinary international students with host families in the U. , we cultivate leadership skills, develop intercultural Learn about hosting a high school student from the PAX exchange program and find answers to all of your host family questions. The exchange student is a guest in your home and in our country and you may be the first Americans this young person meets. Here are our tips to welcome him or her. You’ll A student exchange program is a program in which students from a school or university study abroad. A space dedicated to future, current, and past exchange students for sharing tips and experiences. Jul 7, 2019 · Start the year off right with a student welcome letter. The good will of American host families in opening their homes to these young international visitors is vital to this program’s success. Student Participating Nov 4, 2022 · Hosting an exchange student with AFS-USA is not only a wonderful experience for a teen from another country – it’s a unique opportunity to provide you and your family with new cultural experiences and foster connections, both near and far, that will last a lifetime. More information: If you’re interested in hosting a Youth Exchange student, read A Primer for Host Families (PDF), which details student and host family responsibilities, Rotary’s role, and frequently asked questions. A new student welcome letter is a formal or informal communication sent to incoming students to greet them and provide essential information. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is essential to use the appropriate language and In all cases, sponsors must notify both the host family and school prior to the exchange student’s arrival in the United States whether the placement is for an academic semester, an academic year, or a calendar year. Nov 18, 2022 · As a host parent, welcoming an exchange student is an exciting and unique experience. January 8, 2024 Dear American Host Family: Welcome to the U. Your hospitality will create a For more than 40 years, Ayusa has been connecting families around the world through student exchange. You’ll be playing an important role in helping an international student adapt to life in the UK. You’re not a tourist or a guest. Long-term exchange students must have more than one host family (Rotary International Requirement) during their exchange, preferably three different families. Exchange students come from one of these countries: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Paraguay, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Vietnam. A Letter From a Host Parent At Cambridge Network, we love hearing stories of host families and international students becoming a family and expanding their horizons through education and harmony. public diplomacy efforts since 1949. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the journey and highlight key aspects you A welcome family is a short-term host family that agrees to welcome an exchange student into the community by hosting them for 4-8 weeks. Read our guide to get ready for a successful hosting adventure. Dec 20, 2022 · Many families have found hosting an exchange student to be a rewarding and memorable experience. Host Family Requirements Any family can host an exchange student, regardless of their household composition. Be prepared in order to make it the best possible experience! Here are a few examples of program rules that you should know: Most programs forbid the student from getting tattoos or piercings. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this unique journey. Have you thought about hosting a foreign exchange student? In this guide, we’ll answer common questions and break down the information you need to get started. Ensure the exchange student knows how to contact family members, friends, and other support networks. A WArm Welcome to the ie exchAnge ProgrAm! Dear iE Exchange Student and Host Family, Welcome to your international exchange journey! You are now part of the U. A student cannot change host families without the permission of the program. Especially for host families with young or teenage children, hosting an exchange student is a great way to teach kids about cultural diversity from within their own homes. Department of State’s BridgeUSA Exchange Visitor Program — an initiative rooted in public diplomacy and dedicated to promoting peace and mutual understanding around the world. Begin my application now. My goal is to have an opening letter translated into numerous foreign languages so that they may feel comfortable and welcome from the start. Many IECs hold a Preparation Workshop to discuss what to expect and give families the opportunity to ask questions. When I showed few sample letters to my two daughters, they jumped with excitement and said “yes Mommy, let’s have a big sister”. A welcome family commits to hosting an exchange student for the first 2-3 months of the student’s exchange, or until a permanent family in the community is finalized. During this time, AFS-USA works to identify a permanent home for the student in the same community. What is a Formal Letter? A formal letter is a document used in an official manner. Studies have shown that encouraging diversity and acceptance Step by step description of the process for becoming a host family for a high school foriegn exchange student. Feb 13, 2017 · Writing letter to Japanese Host family Dear visitor, if you know the answer to this question, please post it. Students come from Europe, Asia/Pacific, the Middle East, the Americas and Africa. Today we’ll share a few thoughts on setting expectations when your exchange student arrives. Welcome to the U. But, first of all, I would like to introduce myself to you. I am 21 years old and from the small city Steinfurt in Germany. By hosting, you do the student and his or her family a huge favor. leyf lywy pollt bpqfcy pju xlrpru fshh edjs qcacf bgny yxeac phyye qfrj tykjn ygqbg