Q: How do I apply to be an AFS host family?
A: Click here to apply online directly as an AFS Host Family.
For more info on being a host family, click here
Q: How long will our AFS Participant stay?
A: It depends on the AFS program that you choose. AFS programs vary in length from a few weeks to a year.
Q: What support will we get?
A:
• Orientation Sessions for new Host Families
• Orientation Camps for AFS Participants
• Ongoing support from AFS throughout participant’s stay provided by dedicated AFS volunteers
• 24/7 Emergency Phone Service
• Full Medical Insurance for AFS Participant + Travel Costs, all covered by AFS
• Personal Expenses covered by AFS Participant
You will also be assigned 2 x AFS Support people:
1. for you, and
2. for your host student.
Both these people will be in contact once a month to offer support. They’re also your first port of call for any problems and can also be contacted at any time if needed.
Q: Do members of my family have a better chance of going on an AFS program if I get involved as a host family?
A: Preferred scholarships: 4 exclusive scholarships available only to eligible members of your family, if you become an AFS host family (for hosting semester or year program participants only.)
Q: Are we paid? What do we pay for? (Very common question.)
A: AFS is able to offer extra assistance to families in need, to help make the hosting experience a positive one for all the family.
Generally, host families do not receive direct financial payment; however, AFS does cover much of the costs (see below.) Overall the reward is in the experience. You offer a warm welcome, love and support. Like a regular family member, you will cover food and provide accommodation for your AFS Participant. You are not expected to provide expensive ‘extras’.
Q: What does AFS and our AFS Participant pay for?
A:
AFS covers compulsory school costs, travel costs and medical insurance (see below.)
AFS Participants cover school uniform elective subjects personal spending money.
Q: What happens if my AFS Participant falls ill?
A: All AFS Participants are fully covered for any accidents or illnesses while on their program. This excludes pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, general dental and optical treatment.
Settling in with your family
Q: Can we choose our AFS Participant?
A: If you are interested in a particular nationality, AFS will try to fulfil your preference and you can indicate if you prefer to host a male or female.
Our primary aim is to find someone who will integrate easily into your family – someone who enjoys your family’s interests and way of life. Such a young person could come from any part of the world, so it helps if you are open minded about nationality.
Q: What is the AFS Participant’s role in my family?
A: Plan on your host student being a family member, sharing fun and duties, privileges and responsibilities.
Q: How much does my family have to adapt and change?
A: There will be some adjustments as your family includes the newcomer in your daily life and everyone learns new patterns, relationships and ways of doing things.
Q: Will our AFS Participant need his/her own bedroom?
A: No, many share with a member of their host family.
Q: What if we have problems and don’t get along?
A: This is where your local AFS Support person can help. They will work with you and your participant to improve the relationship. If these steps are not successful and problems remain, a host family change can be arranged.
Q: Who is responsible for our AFS Participant?
A: Natural parents remain the legal guardians. AFS oversees the safety and welfare of the particpant. Your responsibility is for day-to-day living. You have support from your local AFS group and 24-hour emergency access to AFS. AFS communicates with natural parents through our network of partner AFS organisations overseas.
Q: Where will our host student go to school?
A: Depending on the program, your local AFS group will arrange a place at the nearest appropriate school, having negotiated fees, related expenses and their payment. AFS students are required to attend school full-time.
Q: What happens during school holidays?
A: Your student can be included in what your family or other AFS members are doing or something organised by friends and approved by you, AFS and the student’s natural parents.
Q: What happens if my family goes on a holiday? A: Interstate/Local: No problems – like any regular member of the family, AFS would expect you would take your host AFS participant with you on the trip. In emergency or extreme situations, AFS will arrange a temporary host family as a matter of last resort. A: International: Participants are allowed to travel overseas – with the host family only. However, participants are not allowed to travel to any destination that has an Australian Government Travel Advisory of “Do not travel” or “Reconsider your need to travel.”
Q: Will we be included in the local AFS group?
A: You and your AFS Participant are automatically members of the local AFS group. You are invited to attend their meetings, their activities and social functions. We encourage you to become actively involved in your local group, as they are able to offer you a great deal of valuable support.
Still have questions? Contact us!
