How to Host a FLEX Student

Step 1: Application

Step 2: Interview
All family members should be present when the FLEX Local Coordinator visits your home. The Local Coordinator must be sure your family understands the responsibilities of hosting, see the room where the student will sleep and study, and determine that all family members agree to share the experience.

Step 3: Choose a FLEX student to host
Your FLEX Local Coordinator will assist you in this decision process.

Step 4: Attend Orientation
Your FLEX Local Coordinator will contact you to schedule a FLEX-specific Host Family Orientation. This will be a chance for you and your family to participate in a workshop dealing with expectations and cross-cultural differences. You will also find out how your student was specially chosen to receive this grant through the U.S. Department of State and learn about specific activities your FLEX student must participate in to fulfill the requirements of this prestigious program.

Click here to find out more about the AYA Application Process!

Sooner than you can imagine, the day will come when your student must pack his or her bags and head for home. Students hold open return tickets and will schedule their return flight within two weeks after the last day of school and no later than June 30th. Saying goodbye is often the hardest part of the hosting experience.

Call (800) 322-HOST ext. 5164 or email aya.info@aifs.org to begin the application process!

Request an Academic Year in America Brochure for more information about hosting a foreign exchange student and AYA.

Note: Due to program guidelines, FLEX students can only be placed in certain geographic areas. Please contact Academic Year in America to find out more.