Find ​A Safe​ and Caring Homestay in ​Alberta

Alberta Homestay Organization (AHO) ​connects international students with welcoming Alberta host families through personal care, local experience, and trusted matching. 

Why Trust AHO

AHO is a non-profit organization, composing of enthusiastic and hospitable people who are familiar with the local cultures, challenges and opportunities that new international students face. AHO will help students quickly adapt to a new culture and environment and provide related services for students during their homestay.

  • Founder Was Former International Student

Our founder arrived in Alberta from China mainland in 2001 as an international student pursuing a PhD. Having experienced the challenges of adapting to a new culture and environment, we understand what international students need to feel at home.

  • Experienced Homestay Host

AHO was founded by someone who has personally hosted international students in Alberta. We understand the expectations, responsibilities, and challenges involved in creating a positive homestay experience for both students and host families.

  • Abundant Knowledge and Experience in Alberta Education System

After more than two decades in Alberta, our founder has built a professional career, raised two children through Alberta's education system from Kindergarten to university, and gained firsthand knowledge of local communities, schools, and family life.

  • Focus on Living Quality, Safety and Support

We encourage hosts to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive home environment.  We believe healthy and quality food is critical for the physical and mental developments of young students. 

AHO encourages open communication and works to support both students and host families throughout the homestay experience.

  • Personal Matching Process

We take time to understand the needs, preferences, and expectations of both students and host families. Our goal is to create compatible matches that lead to comfortable living arrangements and meaningful cultural exchange. 

  • Well Local Alberta Knowledge

AHO is based in Alberta and focuses on serving students and host families within the province. We understand local schools, transportation, neighborhoods, climate, and the unique needs of students living in Alberta.  

Meet the Founder, Dr. Fagang Gu

I arrived in Alberta from China mainland in 2001 as an international student pursuing my PhD at the University of Alberta. Since then I have built a professional career, raised a family, and gained firsthand homestay hosting experience. AHO was created to help international students find safe, trustful and comfortable homes and help Alberta families share meaningful cultural experiences.

 Know more

How AHO Works

Apply → Discuss Needs → Match with Host → Move In

Every student and host family is unique. AHO takes a personalized approach to help create successful and comfortable homestay matches.

For Students

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Complete our online form and tell us about your school, arrival date,  dietary preferences, and accommodation needs etc. 

Step 2：Discuss Your Needs 

We review your information and communicate with you to better understand your expectations and preferences. 

Step 3：Match With a Host Family 

We carefully match you with a host family based on lifestyle, location, interests, and accommodation requirements. 

Step 4：Confirm and Move In 

Once both sides agree, we confirm the placement and help you prepare for your arrival in Alberta.

For Host Families

Step 1：Apply to Become a Host

Tell us about your household, available rooms, family members, lifestyle, and hosting preferences etc. 

Step 2：Home Review and Visit

We review your application and discuss your home environment to ensure a positive homestay experience. We will visit your home and meet with your family members and take some photos.

Step 3：Student Matching

We introduce students whose needs and expectations are compatible with your family and hosting style.

Step 4：Welcome Your Student

Prepare for your student's arrival and begin a rewarding cultural exchange experience.

Our Commitment

🛡️ Safe Home

We promote homestay environments that are safe, respectful, and supportive for both students and host families.

🏡 High Quality Living

We encourage comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and positive daily living experiences that help students succeed.

🌎 Cultural Exchange  

We believe homestay creates opportunities for meaningful cultural understanding, friendship, and personal growth.