Become an AYA Host Family!

We are excited that you and your family are taking the first step to hosting a foreign exchange student. To start the process, please register with AYA.

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Register with AYA

Registering your family with AYA is a quick way to begin your hosting experience. Once you have registered you can begin to read student profiles, receive our host family brochure, and begin your host family application.

If you've already registered on the AYA website, you can meet AYA students! Registered host families can search student profiles online at anytime. Search based on country, interests and gender and find your perfect match! In order to view student photos, you will be required to complete your host family application and criminal background check.

Register now!

Complete your Online Host Family Application Packet

Once you register, you will be able to begin your host family application.

Our AYA Application Packet includes:

• Biographical information about your household members, family interests and household rules
• A Family Album section where you will include specific photos of your home and family to be shared with your future student
• A request for references; you will be asked to provide a minimum of 2 non-family references
• A Criminal Background Check for all household members 18 years and older

Log into your account to begin the Host Family Application.

Host Family Interview and Reference Verification

All prospective host families will be assigned an AYA Local Coordinator who will meet with your family and work with you throughout the program.

Host Family Interview: What to Expect

Your Local Coordinator will schedule a convenient time to meet you and all members of your household in your home. Your Local Coordinator will view your students bedroom, study area and all common areas in the home. They will also discuss your responsibilities as a host family and answer any questions you may have. The Local Coordinator will verify that each household member agrees to participate in the hosting experience.

Reference Verification

Your Local Coordinator will contact the references provided by you on your host family application to verify that you are able to provide a safe, healthy and nurturing environment in which to foster this exchange.

Finalize your Student Selection!

By now you may have already found the perfect student for your family by reviewing student profiles online or your Local Coordinator can help show you profiles that will be a good match for your family. The AYA office staff will also be happy to help you personally select your student or answer any questions you may have!

Once your Host Family Application, background check, interview and references have been approved by the AYA National office your family will be considered fully vetted and approved to host! Your Local Coordinator will work with your local high school to enroll your student in an accredited public or private high school in your area. You and your student will receive confirmation that the match has been confirmed and can now begin communicating with you new 'son' or 'daughter' via phone, email, letters or web!

WELCOME TO AYA!

You are now a member of the AYA family and can start planning your new adventure! AYA is committed to providing you with a rewarding and quality experience.

You will be given access to important documents and resources for you and your student. Your Local Coordinator will schedule a date to provide you with a complete Host Family orientation prior to your students arrival. The AYA office is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.

If you have any questions about the application process or hosting a student, please contact us at 1-800-322-HOST or by email: aya.info@aifs.org

By hosting an exchange student, it has given me the power to help with bridging the gap between our culture and others. It may seem small, but it has taught me that even just one person can make a difference. 2009 Host Family