1. Term
The Homestay placement is intended to last the duration of your program. Any student wishing to shorten or extend their stay beyond the agreed date of their program must advise the IAO staff at least 4 weeks in advance. Such changes are subject to the decision of IAO, in consultation with the Homestay family, and predicated upon the student’s academic performance and behaviour. Homestay participants are requested to leave their host family no later than one week after the Semester or Summer program ends.
2. Payment
Fees are charged prior to students arrival. UEES is in charge of paying the Host Families each month. Students that come independently are requested to pay the fee in full during Orientation.
3. Refund Policy
The Homestay program relies on the hospitality and kindness of the Host Families, so fees are not refundable if they have already been paid to the Host Family, even if the student decides to leave in the middle of the month. For other refund details, please see IAO Refund Policy.
4. Expectations
The success of a Homestay placement depends on the goodwill, kindness and understanding of all parties. Our families open not only their homes but their hearts to our International Students.
Homes assigned are considered an extension of the University, therefore, the University has the right to supervise all disciplinary and financial regulations incident to this program.
Keep in mind that every family is unique and so every student’s experience will be unique. Resist temptations you might feel to compare your host family with those of other students (particularly comparisons involving judgments). Such comparisons are unfair and may be detrimental to your experience. Take advantage of every moment you are here and build a friendship with your family. Be respectful of your family’s concerns for your safety and wellbeing. It is of paramount importance to be courteous and arrive home on time for every meal. Be sure to communicate delays or changes to your schedule in advance.
Place toilet paper in the trash basket, which you usually find located conveniently next to the toilet.
Long distance and international calls may not be made from the host family’s home.
You should consult your host family in advance to make sure that a visit is okay (especially with regard to the day and time). If a visitor of the opposite sex is in your bedroom, never close the door during their visit. When you are with friends, please refrain from speaking English or any language other than Spanish in front of your family. Be sure to make your bed every day and keep your room neat. Keep an open mind and be flexible. Be sensitive to cultural differences. Allow yourself time to
adjust to your family and your host culture. Obey your family’s rules (e.g. curfews) and understand the reasons behind these regulations (i.e. concern about your safety and wellbeing).
If you don’t understand something, ask. This will help you to avoid misunderstandings later on. Let your family know what you need and what you like. Observe and participate actively with your family in the culture.