December 9, 2025A Guide to Becoming a Host Family at Aberdeen Hall

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Become a Host Family and Welcome an International Student to Your Home
Common Questions Answered

Every year, Aberdeen Hall welcomes international students who come to Canada for academic excellence and a meaningful cultural experience. Becoming a host family is a rewarding way to welcome a new family member into your home, learn about another culture, build lasting relationships, and receive a stipend of $1,500 per month.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the basic responsibilities?
Host families provide a safe, caring home and integrate the student as an additional family member. Students are expected to follow all family rules and curfews.

Accommodation: A private bedroom with a desk, bed, and window. Bathrooms may be shared among students.
Meals: Three balanced meals daily. Students typically prepare their own breakfast and packed lunch (you supply the food). Dinner is typically a hot meal when possible, depending on your family’s routine.
Emotional Support and Integration: Offer guidance and include the student in everyday routines and activities.

2. Who are the students?
Our students are motivated scholars in Grades 7 to 12, primarily from East Asian countries such as China, Korea, Japan, and Thailand. They are eager to experience life in Canada.

3. What hosting options are available?
We accommodate a variety of family schedules:

Long-Term: Hosting for a full academic year (or longer), usually beginning in September.
Short-Term: Hosting for a set period, such as a few weeks.
Respite Care: Temporary care for a few days or weeks when a long-term host family is away or requires a break.

4. What about expenses?
The $1,500 monthly stipend covers the student's room, board (including meals and household food), and routine household expenses, including reasonable transportation if needed. Students are responsible for their own discretionary spending and personal purchases.

5. How much time will the student spend with the family?
Students are at school during the day and are expected to participate in family activities, just like any other member of your household. Involvement varies, but may include:

• Sharing meals when possible
• Helping with light household chores
• Joining family outings, errands, or local activities

6. What if we plan a family trip?
Arrange Respite: Most families arrange temporary housing during travel, with a responsible adult (age 25+) who has completed a background check.
Travel With the Student: You may choose to bring the student on the trip with prior approval. Families may request that the student's parents cover travel-related costs when appropriate.

7. What are the transportation expectations?
Students primarily use the school bus or public transit.

Routine: If your home is on a school bus route, the student will use it. Otherwise, we prefer homes in Kelowna near public transit. If you drive your own children, the student should be included in your usual drop-offs and pick-ups.

Non-Routine: For activities outside regular hours where public transit is unavailable, host families typically provide transportation.

Driving should fit reasonably into your existing schedule. Host families are expected to provide support, not on-demand transportation.

8. Do I need to speak the student's language?
No. English immersion is one of the primary goals of the program, and students are encouraged to practice their English skills at home.

9. What is the process to become a host family?
The process includes an application, home inspection, background checks for adults over 18, and an interview. Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee placement. Once a placement is confirmed, you will receive an initial introduction to the student before their arrival.

10. Cultural understanding is important
Successful host families are open-minded and communicate clearly. Avoid assuming the student is familiar with your family’s routines or expectations. Patience, clarity, and gentle guidance help set everyone up for success. The Director of International Admissions is always available to support host families.

If you are interested in this opportunity or have any questions, contact the Director of International Admissions at [email protected] or call 250-491-1270 ext. 47.