International Student Homestay Program

The ECC International Student Homestay Program allows F-1 visa students to live with an American family. Host families can experience a new culture. This unique opportunity benefits both students and residents. The program aims to build bridges of cultural appreciation and promote global awareness and diversity.

Homestay placements begin no earlier than the weekend before International New Student Orientation or the Intensive English Program testing starts. 

How to Apply

International students are encouraged to apply at least 60 days before their program starts. Learn more about how to request a homestay placement.

Host family applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Our highest numbers of requests for homestays are during the fall (August) and spring (January) semesters. Learn more about how to apply to be a host.

Overview

Elgin Community College welcomes a diverse population of international students and exchange visitors to its campus every semester. The presence of these students on campus contributes to the cultural diversity and global understanding within District 509.

The International Student Homestay Program offers international students the opportunity to live in an American home as a family member. The program fosters international friendship and cultural exchange, offering students a safe, clean, and welcoming environment during their studies at ECC. A homestay allows international students to improve their English and meet new people. It also offers participation in events and outings, enhancing their academic and cultural experience at ECC.

It offers local families a unique chance to host an international student through the ECC International Student Homestay Program. Welcoming an international student into your home provides the reward of helping them understand and adapt to a new culture. The program allows ECC international students to experience college life in the U.S. while living with a local American family. It offers daily, personal interaction to enhance their cultural experience.

What is a homestay?

A homestay offers students an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in American culture. The student lives with the host family for a set period, receiving meals and, if needed, transportation. The student pays a monthly homestay fee to the family.

Why live with a host family?

Living with a host family helps international students improve their English through daily interactions and by experiencing American culture firsthand.

Who is best suited for participating in a homestay?

International students on an F-1 visa who value a family environment are great candidates for a homestay. They also have the opportunity to experience American culture firsthand while living with a host family.

Who can host a student?

There is no "typical" homestay family, as the U.S. is multicultural, with people from diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the host families participating in the Elgin Community College International Student Homestay Program. As a public institution, ECC embraces and promotes this diversity and multiculturalism. The most important criterion for a host is a genuine interest in sharing American culture. They should also provide a safe and caring home for the student.