What to Expect when Hosting an International Student

Warm welcomes matter—many students remember the kindness of their host family’s greeting long after the programme ends.

Opening Your Home To Cultural Exchange

Welcoming an international student into your home is a rewarding and enriching experience, but like any new adventure, it comes with its own set of questions and expectations. Whether you are considering hosting for the first time or have already hosted before, it helps to understand what the experience involves and how best to prepare.

A New Dynamic At Home

When you open your home to an international student, you are inviting a new personality into your daily life. Students are often excited, nervous, and eager to learn—not just English, but also your way of life. Most of our students come from Germany and Austria, but we also welcome participants from the Nordic countries, as well as Eastern and Southern Europe. They are typically aged between 17 and 25, and while they are fairly independent, they will still rely on you for guidance, warmth, and support. Every student brings their own personality—some enjoy going out and exploring the city, while others are more introverted and prefer to spend their free time relaxing in their rooms, recharging from the many new impressions around them.

Expect your home life to become more lively, culturally rich, and occasionally a little unpredictable. A sense of humour, patience, and empathy go a long way.

Daily Routines And Responsibilities

As a host family, you will provide a private bedroom, breakfast and dinner each day. Most of our students book a half-board arrangement, meaning they are responsible for getting their own lunch—usually from cafés, bakeries, or supermarkets near their school or work placement.

Students typically spend their weekdays attending English lessons and work placements, so they are usually out from morning until late afternoon. Evenings and weekends are when most interaction takes place—sharing meals, chatting about the day, or even watching a film together.

While students should respect your household rules, it is equally important to clearly communicate your expectations from the start—curfews, mealtimes, bathroom routines, and how to use appliances. A written set of house rules can be very helpful, especially for students with lower English proficiency.

Cultural Exchange

One of the most rewarding aspects of hosting is the cultural exchange that takes place. You will learn about life in another country—from school systems to food habits—while your student gets to experience Irish hospitality first-hand. Cultural differences may occasionally lead to misunderstandings, but they are also wonderful opportunities for learning and growth.

Encourage open conversation and approach any confusion with kindness. What seems obvious in one culture may not be so in another.

Supporting Language Development

While English lessons are sometimes part of the programme, daily conversations at work and at home are where students truly improve their speaking confidence. You do not need to be a teacher—just be willing to talk, listen, and gently correct when needed. Even small exchanges like “How was your day?” or “Would you like some tea?” can make a big difference.

Do not worry if communication is slow at first. Smiles, gestures, and simple language can go a long way in building a strong bond.

Hosting an international student is more than providing accommodation—it is about making a young person feel at home, sometimes for the first time far away from their family. The experience often results in lifelong memories and friendships that cross borders and generations.

If you are curious about hosting, check out our other blog posts or sign up to become a host family. We would love to hear from you!