Welcome International Exchange Students into Your Home
ASSE International Student Exchange Programs invites families to embrace global culture.
This fall, high school students from various countries will arrive in communities across the United States. These students are excited to experience American life by becoming part of local families. ASSE International Student Exchange Programs (ASSE), a nonprofit organization, seeks families willing to open their homes as volunteer host families for the upcoming academic year or semester. This presents a unique, personal cultural exchange experience.
The Benefits of Hosting an Exchange Student
Students coming from over 50 countries such as France, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Germany, Japan, and Australia seek more than just an academic adventure. They aim to connect with families through shared dinners, local traditions, school activities, and community life.
As host families, you’ll not only share your home but also your culture, gaining new perspectives as your family forges relationships that can last a lifetime.
Creating Lifelong Memories
“Students are truly eager to meet their American host families,” stated Saphia Lesch, ASSE Midwestern Regional Director. “Start this journey today, and cherish lifetime memories and friendships.”
About ASSE
Founded by the Swedish Ministry of Education in the late 1930s and expanded to the U.S. in 1976, ASSE has been dedicated to bridging cultures through education for decades. With its national office in California, it operates numerous regional offices across the United States and collaborates with 38 partner offices in 31 countries globally, all united to cultivate understanding through international student exchange.
The Exchange Experience
ASSE’s exchange model emphasizes immersion in community involvement. Students aged 15 to 18 live with volunteer host families while attending high school, participating in classes, extracurricular activities, and local life. Host families welcome students into their daily routines, offering experiences that are foundational to their time in America.
Inclusivity in Hosting
Families of all backgrounds are encouraged to become host families, whether you are a couple, single parent, or an individual. No prior hosting experience is needed, and ASSE carefully selects exchange students based on academic achievement and personal character.
Potential hosts can review student profiles to find a match that aligns with their family's interests and values.
Support and Resources
ASSE exchange students arrive with their own funds for personal expenses, as well as comprehensive health, accident, and liability insurance, easing the financial responsibilities for host families. Local ASSE community representatives support both students and hosts throughout the exchange program, ensuring a positive and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
The benefits of hosting stretch beyond just the family. International students enrich classrooms and communities by introducing global perspectives, creating valuable cultural connections that foster empathy and understanding.
Opportunities Beyond Hosting
Besides hosting international students in the U.S., ASSE offers American students opportunities to study abroad, whether for a semester, a full school year, or shorter summer programs. These experiences empower students to gain international exposure, develop independence, and build significant language and cultural skills.
If you're a family interested in hosting an international exchange student or a high school student seeking an adventure abroad, reach out to ASSE. For more information and to start the application process, contact 1-800-736-1760, or visit www.asse.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ASSE International Student Exchange Programs?
ASSE is a nonprofit organization focused on providing cultural exchange experiences for high school students and their host families.
Who can be a host family?
Anyone—couples, singles, or families without children—can host an exchange student. No previous hosting experience is necessary.
What is the age range for exchange students?
Students aged 15 to 18 participate in the exchange program, immersing themselves in American life.
How does ASSE support host families?
ASSE provides guidance through local representatives who assist both students and host families during the exchange process.
Are exchange students financially supported?
Yes, students come with their own funds and insurance, which alleviates financial responsibilities for host families.
