Frequently Asked Questions

What is a “Host Family?”
A host family may be two parents with children (from infant to adult), single mothers or fathers, couples without children, grandparents, or single individuals. All of the host families are screened by the local organization and they provide warm, welcoming homes for international students. Most families also host other teens who are studying at the school.

Will my family speak English?
They might, but they know that you are coming to use and improve your language skills, so they’ll encourage you to speak their language.

Are host families paid?
Families hosting homestay/study programs receive a small weekly stipend to help cover their expenses. You will find that they are very welcoming hosts who are experienced at sharing their culture and helping you learn their language and customs. Some families hosting homestay immersion programs do not receive a stipend.

When will I get information about my host family?
You will receive information about your family prior to departure.

Will there be teenagers in the family?
With the homestay/study programs sometimes you will have a teen in your home, but not always. But you will have opportunities to meet other teens at school and on the excursions. Most families also host other teens on the program. For the homestay immersion program you are guaranteed to have a teen in your home or extensive contact with teens in the neighborhood or extended family.

What if I have a problem with my family?
Talk with the homestay coordinator of your program. They want you to have a rewarding homestay experience and will help with any problems or questions you might have.

How will I get from the airport to my host family?
You will be met at you arrival airport by the local program coordinator and taken to your host family.

Will I get any orientation materials?
Yes. In the spring you will receive a parent/student orientation packet with detailed information about everything from packing and insurance to passports and culture shock.

Do I need to get a visa?
US citizens do not need a visa if you are staying 90 days or less. If you are applying for a semester program you will need a visa.

How much spending money should I bring?
This varies depending on which country you are visiting. Your orientation materials will mention what we suggest for spending money.

What if I get sick?
All students are covered by a comprehensive medical insurance policy. You will receive an insurance booklet and claim form before departure. If you need to see a doctor or visit a hospital, take these along. Your host family will also inform the local coordinator, who is available to accompany you if the situation warrants it.

How do I apply?
Complete the initial application form and return it to ANDEO with a $250 deposit. We will then send you the homestay application packet that will be used to match you with your host family. This packet includes details about your hobbies and interests, a medical form, and reference forms for your teachers. We’ll also ask you to write a “Dear Host Family” letter in the language of the country you plan to visit. All of this information helps our homestay coordinators abroad make a great family match for you.

When are payments due?
The first payment of $250 is due with your initial application. An additional payment (starting at $500, depending on when we receive your initial application) is due with your completed homestay application packet. You will receive a detailed schedule of the remaining payments in the application packet.

Who should not apply for this program?
In order to assure a successful experience for students and for the host families, students who are currently experiencing excessive behavior problems, drug or alcohol abuse, or eating disorders; or students who have experienced these issues within the past year should not apply. Students who develop these problems prior to departure will not be allowed to participate.

 What if I cancel my application after I have paid some deposits?
If we receive written notice of your cancellation by March 1st, all your deposits will be refunded except the $250 application fee. If you cancel after March 1st, your refund amount will depend upon restrictions placed upon ANDEO by our partner organizations.

Are there any scholarships?
Unfortunately not. We are a non-profit organization and we try to keep our prices as low as possible for all students. However we can send you some helpful information about fundraising; some students have raised up to $2,000 using our fundraising suggestions!

Can I talk with students who have participated in your program?
Of course! Please call us at 503-274-1776 (in Portland) or 1-800-274-6007 or email us. We will be happy to give you names and telephone numbers of previous participants and their parents.

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