Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions!
A homestay is a living arrangement where an international student stays with a local host family while studying in Canada. Homestay provides not only accommodation but also an opportunity to experience Canadian culture and daily life.
International students coming to Alberta for educational programs including elementary school, junior high, high school, post secondary and language study may apply for homestay placement through AHO.
Typically, homestay fees may include accommodation, utilities, internet access, and meal arrangements. The amount of fees may vary with specific cities, areas and the year reflecting the local costs and inflation. Details will be provided before placement is confirmed.
Yes. A private bedroom with a bed, a desk, a chair and a closet will be provided.
We will do our best to match students with host families that can accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegetarian, halal, or allergy-related needs.
AHO considers factors such as location, school, lifestyle preferences, dietary needs, hobbies, and family expectations to help create compatible matches.
Yes. Whenever possible, students and host families will have an opportunity to communicate before the placement is finalized.
No worry! Arrival arrangements will be discussed before your trip. We will work with the host family to help ensure a smooth arrival process.
AHO encourages open communication between students and host families. If concerns arise, we will work with both parties to seek a reasonable solution whenever possible.
In certain situations, a placement change may be considered. Each case will be reviewed by AHO individually to determine the best course of action.
Unless there is an emergency, you may have to wait several weeks before moving to a new host family. Selecting an appropriate family is a process that takes time, so please be patient. We will discuss a relocation timeline with you.
You may be required to pay some additional fees to change your host family. Please consult AHO for your case!
We recommend applying several weeks before your planned arrival date to allow sufficient time for matching and preparation.
Alberta is home to excellent educational institutions, diverse communities, and a high quality of life. Many international students choose Alberta for its educational opportunities, affordable costs and welcoming environment.
AHO was founded by a former international student and experienced homestay host who understands both perspectives of international students and homestay hosts. We focus on personal service, thoughtful matching, and supportive homestay experiences.
AHO will provide the following services:
AHO can provide other services including, but not limited to, the following:
You may need to pay a small amount fees for some services to cover the expenses. Please contact AHO for details!
No. Previous hosting experience is helpful but not required. AHO will explain expectations and help guide new host families through the process.
Families, couples, single parents, retirees, and other responsible adults may be eligible to host international students if they can provide a safe and welcoming home environment.
Placement length is typically one academic year(from September to June), i.e. 10 months. If both parties agree, the placement can be renewed each year before the end of a academic year (in June each year).
Host families will have an opportunity to review student information and decide whether a placement is a good fit. If you need, AHO can arrange an online meeting with a potential student.
AHO considers factors such as lifestyle, family composition, location, transportation access, interests, and expectations to help identify suitable matches.
AHO serves as a point of contact and encourages communication between students and host families throughout the homestay experience.
Successful host families are welcoming, respectful, patient, and willing to communicate openly with students from different cultural backgrounds. Healthy meals are also very important for growing students.
AHO is a local Alberta-based organization founded by someone who has been an international student, a parent, and a homestay host. We understand the needs of both students and families and strive to create positive and rewarding homestay experiences.
