Quality homestays for our international students are a top priority for our program. We believe that if a student is happy in his or her homestay, their experience overseas will be a much more happy and memorable one.

Our Selection Process:

All our homestay families are selected with the utmost care.  Perspective families must first attend an information session where they are provided with an introduction to the expectations of the homestay program. 

Once they make the decision to apply, the family goes through a rigorous screening process.  This includes a home visit where our Homestay Coordinator interviews all of the family members and inspects the home.  Additionally, the family must provide a number of character references with their application and each adult family member must pass a criminal record check. 

This extensive interview process helps us determine which families would be best for our international students.

Training and Seminars:

Once they are selected as homestay families, training is received in order to ensure that there will be a smooth transition for the new student.  There are two training sessions that homestay families attend per year, plus families have access to help throughout the year. 

What Can You Expect From an Abbotsford Homestay?:

•  One international student per home

•  A clean and private bedroom which includes:
          Comfortable bed (including linen, duvet cover, blanket, pillows)
          Night table, dresser, lamp, alarm clock
          Work desk with a chair and sufficient lighting
          Closet and mirror

•  Three meals every day and nutritious snacks

•  Access to a bathroom, laundry and other facilities

Student Support:

Our International Assistants assist with our homestay placements by visiting the students in their new Canadian homes and helping with communication if necessary.  As the students maintain constant contact with the International Assistants, they are able to assist with any problems that may arise throughout the year.  Students also have access to a variety of support and information before and during their Homestay placement. 

Students in Homestay will:

•  Be provided with information about your host family prior to arrival

•  Receive pre-arrival information to help prepare you for your homestay experience

•  Attend a homestay orientation meeting after arrival

•  Have access to on-going advice from the Homestay staff

•  Have a 24 hour emergency contact number

Please review the Homestay Expectations and Guidelines

Homestay is not offered to children under the age of 12 as these students must live with a parent in order to attend school in Abbotsford.

See Homestay Fees

Apply for Student Homestay

See Homestay Photos