Hosting an international student is a powerful way to live out the Great Commission right from your own home — sharing the love of Jesus, building lifelong friendships, and broadening your family’s worldview. Providing a nurturing Christ-centered and English immersive home environment can make a difference in helping a student thrive at Westlake.
What does hosting involve?
- Provide a bedroom and study area (this can be private, or shared with one other child of the same gender), three meals a day, snacks, and transportation to and from school and school-related activities.
- Welcome the student into your family routines, church life, and daily life as a temporary family member.
- Offer encouragement and support as the student adjusts to a new culture (our International Student Coordinator Hannah Lee provides ongoing assistance).
- Students come with an annual stipend of $8,000 (10 months, August-May/June) to help cover food, transportation, and other expenses.
Why host?
- Spiritual impact: Model Christ’s love and disciple a young person with spiritual needs and questions.
- Family blessing: Give your own children a global perspective and create memories that last a lifetime.
- Support provided: Orientation, regular check-ins, information on emergency protocols, and assistance with any other questions from WCA’s International Student Coordinator.
Who can host?
We welcome Christian families (or individuals) who are actively involved in a local church, have a safe and stable home, and are willing to go through our simple application process, including a background check and a home visit. Experience is not required — just a welcoming heart!
FAQ:
1. Does a host family need to have a student enrolled at Westlake?
No, as long as your family is committed to transporting the student to school and school events, you can host an international student.
2. Can a host family have children of the opposite gender?
Yes. The international student must either have a separate bedroom or share a bedroom with one other child of the same gender, preferably of a relatively similar age.
3. What is the length of the commitment?
Host families commit on a year-to-year basis. This would be from mid-August to the end of May/beginning of June.
4. If we go on a trip or visit relatives, does the student go with us?
It is highly beneficial and encouraged for the international student to join in on family trips. If there are circumstances where this wouldn’t be possible, the International Student Coordinator can work with the host family to find an approved temporary alternative host family.
5. Will the international student have their own health insurance?
Yes, international students have their own health insurance that you are not responsible for.
Contact Us
Interested in learning more? Please contact our International Student Program Coordinator, Mrs. Hannah Lee.