Welcome to our IL Homestay Program
Empowering High School Students for a Successful Future
Introduction
Our Homestay Program offers international students a safe, supportive, and culturally immersive home-away-from-home experience while studying in the United States. Managed by the Global Engagement Division of CFI (GECFI), this program is committed to providing students with a nurturing environment that fosters academic success, cultural exchange, and personal growth.
What sets our program apart is the rigorous and thoughtful host family selection process.
Most of our host families are connected to partner schools—either as current or former school families—or are trusted members of the local community personally known to our coordinators. Each prospective host undergoes a detailed application and screening process, which includes background checks, home inspections, interviews, and ongoing training to ensure they can provide the highest standard of care and guidance.
Our goal is to create a true sense of family and belonging for every student. Through daily interaction and support, students improve their language skills, adapt to American life, and gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity—while host families enjoy the meaningful experience of welcoming a student from another part of the world into their home.
Open Your Home, Open to the World 🌍
Apply to be a Host Family
Are you ready to make a lasting impact and bring the world a little closer to home? We’re looking for warm, welcoming families to host international students during their educational journey in the U.S.
By opening your home, you’re not just offering a place to stay: you’re opening hearts, sharing cultures, and creating lifelong memories. Most of our students are from Asia and Europe and are eager to learn about American life, improve their English, and become part of your family.
✅ Flexible hosting periods
✅ Stipend provided
✅ Ongoing support from our experienced homestay team
Whether you're a school family or a local community member, you can help shape a young person’s future while gaining an unforgettable experience of your own.
Open your home. Open to the world. 🌟
Apply today and be a part of something meaningful.
Experience America with a Homestay Family — Apply Now!
At GECFI, we believe that true cultural exchange happens not only in the classroom, but also around the dinner table, during weekend outings, and through everyday conversations at home. That’s why we’re proud to offer our trusted Homestay Program — a safe, supportive, and enriching living experience for international students.
Most of our host families are carefully selected from school communities and local friends we know and trust. Through a rigorous screening process, we ensure that every student is welcomed into a warm, responsible, and culturally curious household. Many of our host families treat students like their own and create lifelong bonds and unforgettable memories.
By living with a local family, you’ll:
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Strengthen your English and communication skills
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Experience American culture firsthand
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Gain independence and confidence
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Build meaningful, personal connections
Whether this is your first time abroad or you're looking for a more immersive experience, the GECFI Homestay Program is a unique opportunity to grow, explore, and thrive.
Apply for your homestay placement with GECFI today and let your American journey begin!
Click below link to request a host family!
Get in Touch
How It Works:
Flexible Scheduling & Inclusive Services
Whether you’re a working family seeking convenient sessions or a student wanting specialized STEAM guidance, we tailor our programs to fit your schedule. From virtual advising to in-person workshops, CFI is here to support every step of your college journey.
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Contact Us
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Assessment
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Ongoing Sessions