Homestay

Dear students and parents,

Welcome to Homestay! 

Homestay is the opportunity to experience the comfort and support of a Canadian family interested in making a visiting student feel “at home” in their home. Canada Homestay International’s reputation for quality hosts in major centres across Canada has been earned one host at a time through a careful selection and matching process.

With the aid of homestay guidelines, orientation meetings, safety advisories and tips for successful adaptation to a new environment, we lay the groundwork for each student’s success. In addition, there is an experienced team ready to respond 24 hours a day to support the homestay experience. In the event of an unsuccessful match, a student will be moved at no extra charge.

An additional optional service available to students and their families is same-language Intercultural Support provided in advance of departure, after arrival, and for the duration of the student’s stay, as required. For some families, it is very reassuring to have a contact in Ottawa who speaks their own language, is well-versed in school and homestay issues, and is a part of the school/homestay “team”. Please contact me for details on the languages in which this service is offered and the applicable fees.

I look forward to meeting you and helping you to make Ottawa your home away from home.

Sincerely yours,

Brenda St. Jean

Senior Executive Officer
Canada Homestay International