Hosting an international student is an incredibly rewarding experience! When you make the decision to welcome an international student, you make a lasting contribution to your family, your community, and the student.
Becoming a Homestay Family for the Livingstone Range School Division International Student Program offers a range of benefits, including:
Learning about another culture, traditions, and customs
Experiencing a cultural exchange in the comfort of your own home
Seeing our own Canadian culture through the eyes of an International Student
Making a difference in the life of a young citizen of the world
Receiving a monthly stipend to support groceries and quality of life activities
Encouraging families to spend more time doing things together
Developing a lasting friendship with the International Student and his or her family
Acquiring an interest in a new culture that could lead to new travel and language learning opportunities for you and your children
Need more in-depth information about what to expect when you host a student? View for our Host Family Handbook.
Have questions?
We'd love to tell you more about hosting an international student. Simply fill out our Homestay Family Interest Form and we'll contact you.
Livingstone Range School Division welcomes Homestay families to host International Students for a short or long-term stay. Students may stay for 4 months (Sept-Dec), 5 Months (Sept-Jan or Feb-Jun), or a full year (Sept-Jun).
Remuneration, depending on the length of stay, is offered to offset the student’s living costs.
Homestay Families willing to open their hearts and homes to these junior- and senior-high aged International Students are asked to provide the following amenities:
Private bedroom
Three wholesome meals a day and snacks as required
Quiet, well-lit, and heated study space
Access to the common living areas of the house
Laundry
Emotional and academic support
Interaction with family members
Participation in family activities
Internet connection
Please be aware that a Criminal Record Check (including a Vulnerable Sector Check) and a Child Intervention Check will need to be provided for all Home Family residents over the age of 18.
Ready to open your home to an international student?
I can't commit to hosting for a semester or full year. Are there short term opportunities?
Yes! If your family cannot commit to hosting for a full year or semester, you can become a respite family and host a student for a weekend or a couple weeks while their host family are away for various reasons. We also have students who come for 2 or 3 month exchanges and are a perfect way to get an idea of what it is like to be a host family and consider a long term student in the future.
Can I host more than one student?
Yes, many families host two international students at a time. However, the students must speak different native languages to ensure they'll only use English in your home. Students must have their own bedrooms.
Who is eligible to host?
All types of families are encourage to apply! There is no "typical"host family. Families can have small or teenage children at home. They can be single parents, couples with no children, or people that have older children already outside of the home. Families shouldn't worry about being too busy- the more opportunity the student has to experience your life, the better!
What is expected of me and my family?
Our families must live in an English-speaking household and must provide the following: a private bedroom with bed, closet/dresser, and study space with a desk, three wholesome meals per day and a safe, clean environment. Families must also complete an application/interview process and pass a criminal background check.
How are students selected and screened?
Our students are between the ages of 13-18 years old. Before they're accepted into our program, they must submit comprehensive applications with personal, academic and health records. They are fully insured with medical and other liability polices. During their time in the program, students are required to maintain good academic records and performance.
What do I do if problems arise?
We have a lot of experience in placing students with families, and we provide extensive support throughout the year. We will try and work through adjustment issues that can be common. However, if the placement does not work out satisfactorily, we will make arrangements to move the student to another family.
What resources are available for host families?
Homestay Coordinators are your go-to resource while hosting a student(s) in your home. Reach out to your coordinator with any questions or concerns. Homestay Coordinators will check in with you and your student(s) monthly. If any emergencies arise or encounter any challenges, please contact your homestay coordinator.
Host Family Orientation, our host families receive an orientation to prepare for the students' arrival.
Contact us directly at the Livingstone Range School Division office at 403-625-3356 and speak with the International Coordinator.
Exchange Opportunities
Exchange Programs
Are you a LRSD student looking for an adventure and powerful personal development experience? Want to experience a different culture and lifestyle? Why not apply for a student exchange.
Why go on an exchange?
To learn about other cultures and countries
To practice your language skills or learn a new language
Gain intercultural communication and leadership skills
Develop long-lasting friendships
Experience another way of life
For more information about student exchange opportunities through Alberta or other organizations please see the links below:
