Question 1

Where will I be staying during my study abroad program?

Accepted Answer

Exchange student accommodation is based on a number of factors, including the school they will be attending, and whether they prefer to live with a host family in our homestay program, or in one of the student dorms in our student boarding program.

Question 2

Does GBA do background checks on host families?

Accepted Answer

Yes, GBA conducts thorough background checks for all persons over the age of 18 years old residing in the host family home.

Question 3

How will I be matched with a host family?

Accepted Answer

GBA closely reviews the international student and host family applications to carefully match you with a host family that we feel you will have the most success with.

Question 4

What kind of support do students receive while they are studying abroad?

Accepted Answer

GBA offers international students and host families a wealth of support services to ensure a safe and successful international student experience, 
 
From setting up a US student bank account to college planning and interview preparation, we are here to support the student exchange experience from start-to-finish.

For a full list of GBA's support services, please visit our Support & Services page.

Question 5

What does a host family provide?

Accepted Answer

Host families are responsible for providing:
A safe environment
A private bedroom with a bed, desk,  dresser or closet, and a shared bathroom 
Meals – students will receive:
2 meals during the week (breakfast and dinner)  
3 meals on weekends ( breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Transportation to and from school and any additional school activities
Support for the international student

Question 6

What will I be responsible for paying for?

Accepted Answer

All clothing  
Any school supplies or books/reading materials you want in addition to those required for school
Any meals you eat out with friends or without your host family
Any activities you choose to participate in outside of family activities
Any specific food items or toiletries that you want outside of the normal ones that your host family buys 
Your own cell phone and phone charges
All travel expenses related to trips back home; any other traveling you do without your host family
If your host family takes a vacation, you are responsible for your part of the trip (airfare, admission costs, etc.). If you don’t want to go with them, then other housing arrangements need to be made while they are gone.

Question 7

Are there opportunities to travel while I'm on my exchange program?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! GBA and our partner schools offer a number of opportunities for travel and excursions. See a sample of our excursion offerings here.

"An Insider's Guide to Hosting International Students" is now available!

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions