Do I Have to Have Children to Host an Exchange Student?

When we talk about hosting exchange students, we often use the term “host family,” which can be misleading for single people and couples who don’t have children. The great thing about hosting a high school exchange student is that you create a family from the moment that young person walks through your door. If you find yourself wondering, “Do I have to have children to host an exchange student?” then you’re in luck! Below, we’ll answer this question and go over the requirements to host an exchange student. 

Do I Have to Have Children to Host an Exchange Student?  

No, you do not need to have children to host an exchange student. Plenty of empty nesters, young couples/singles without children, and everyone in between can host an exchange student—no children required! 

Benefits of hosting an exchange student for families without children 

While we encourage every eligible person and family to host an exchange student, hosting an exchange student without children provides some unique benefits, including: 

• Focused attention and support: Host families who don’t have children can give exchange students more attention and support, rather than having their attention divided between other kids. 
• Youthful energy: Hosting an exchange student is a fun experience for adults, especially for those who don’t have children. It’s a way to bring some youthful energy into your household and brighten up your life, all while you make a positive impact on theirs! 
• Practice for prospective parents: If you don’t have children, but are considering it, hosting an exchange student is an excellent way to hone your parenting skills. Plus, it can help you decide whether having your own children is something you really want to do! 
• More peaceful environment: While exchange students can benefit from having host siblings, there is also an advantage to having a quieter, otherwise child-free household. As a person without children, you can provide your exchange student with a tranquil environment for them to return to, improving their overall experience. 
• Stronger cultural immersion: Adults tend to have deeper conversations with young people and take a greater interest in their culture, which may be easier to do without other children around. Therefore, you and your exchange student can benefit from a more potent cultural exchange experience. 
• Building a global family: Families who don’t have children can create a caring chosen family with the exchange students they host. It’s a great way to build meaningful relationships for students and host parents alike. Plus, you can enjoy the benefits of having a global family—a community of loved ones spread out across the world! So, no matter where you travel, you’ll have a connection waiting for you. 

Requirements for hosting an exchange student without kids 

While you don’t need to have children to host an exchange student, you must meet the following requirements: 

• Live within 60 miles of a Local Coordinator 
• Provide breakfast and dinner every day 
• Give them their own bed 
• Provide transportation to and from school if no school buses are available 

Additionally, host families are expected to provide a caring supportive home environment where exchange students can thrive. 

Host a high school exchange student with AYA  

Academic Year in America (AYA) is a non-profit organization that connects enthusiastic international high school students with host families ready to welcome them into their hearts and homes. In addition to matching exchange students with host families, AYA offers valuable 24/7 support from professionals at our national office and our on-the-ground Local Coordinators, who are ready to assist you throughout your entire hosting experience.  

If you don’t have children and want to invite an exchange student into your home, AYA is here to help!