Why should I host a ASA International exchange student?

ASA International, a non-profit organization, is a leader in arranging for young people from all over the world to come to America and share their culture with a volunteer host family. We are dedicated in promoting community service and cross cultural education as a family at ASAI. As we have hundreds of dedicated staff and branch offices nationwide, it is easy to say YES to one of these students from over 45 different countries. This cultural experience will be shared with your family, friends and your community. A fun and rewarding time will be had by all!

What do I have to do to become a host family?

Your Community Representative or Area Manager will help you select a student which would best fit with your family, based on your interests. We ask that you provide a healthy family environment, a suitable place for your student to sleep, lots of love, understanding, encouragement, and two meals a day.

This regional website can assist you in your selection and to provide useful information throughout the year.

What expenses will I have hosting an exchange student?

You will only supply meals and a bed to sleep on. "Extra" expenses such as book fees, entertainment, clothes, and other personal expenses are to be paid by the students natural parents. Each student will be given a sufficient monthly allowance for these expenses.

What if our student becomes ill or is in an accident, who is responsible?

Students are insured at the time of entry to the United States. This typically covers medical illness and accidents while they are here. Any illness or treatment which is not covered by their insurance is the responsibility of the natural parent. Students are also issued an insurance card with the necessary information provided, should it become necessary.

We’ve never hosted a student before. How should we treat our student?

You should treat your exchange student like a member of your family, not a house guest. Your exchange student would be expected to be responsible for the same things you would expect your own children to be responsible for.

Do students have to abide by our family rules?

Absolutely! Remember, they are a member of your family. Communication, honesty and openness are very important.

What happens if there are problems?

If problems develop of any kind, you have a built in support system available at all times to help you. If a problem exists your CR is there to assist in resolving it. You are NEVER alone.

Does anyone check on us and our student after they arrive in the United States?

YES! Your CR is responsible to do bi-monthly reports on your student’s adjustment to the United States, new school, and community. They will also see how you as the host family, are doing with your exchange student. Remember, you are part of a great team...a team that desires that the exchange experience is a fantastic one for all!

Here is a host family testimony.

“Our decision to become a Host Family has ended up to be one of the most rewarding decisions we have ever made. We have hosted nine students, all from different countries. (Japan, Germany, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Greece, Uzbekistan, Korea, and the Ukraine.) Our students have enriched not only our lives, but the lives of all the people they touched during their stay here. They have brought us a wealth of knowledge and understanding about their own countries and cultures, their passions, their talents, and their love and affection. They have encouraged many of their American classmates in positive ways, and have received the same encouragement and acceptance in return. We ‘HIGHLY RECOMMEND’ this program. What a fantastic experience! Your lives will never be the same.”
The Cunninghams, Peru IN