Seattle Area Homestay Referrals

The Northwest Foundation of Washington Family Homestay referral program enables international students who want to live in a home environment or with a family to gain an insight into Pacific Northwest life. It offers a unique opportunity to experience American culture first hand by participating in the host family's daily routine.

Advantages of Seattle area homestay

Your meals, private bedroom and use of laundry facilities are provided.  Conditions can vary between households so it is important to talk to the householder about lunch, laundry, phone and internet arrangements.

What you need to consider

House rules
It is important to establish the ground rules before you move regarding such things as curfew times and telephone costs etc. If these ground rules are not clearly set out from the beginning then problems may arise that can create unnecessary tension and conflict.

Needs and preferences
You need to consider how your own needs and preferences will fit in with the routines and expectations of the household, for example:

will meal time match your own routines
have you got sporting commitments
will the family allow and encourage you to bring friends to visit
will they like your music and manners
will you be able to study in this environment
privacy and feeling at home - these are the most important considerations.  Will  you have enough privacy and will you feel 'at home' living with this family?
It is always best to meet the householder/family before you decide to move in. This gives you a chance to ask questions and get a feel for the place.

What  you can expect
Furnished Room
Students should be provided with their own furnished room. This usually includes a desk, bed, chair, wardrobe and lamp. Other household facilities such as a television, washing machine etc are shared by all in the household.

Contracts and Insurance

Contracts are not usually signed and  insurance is not generally required. However It is polite to give at least one week notice of your intention to move out.  Householders may ask you to leave and hopefully in this case notice would be given, but it is not a legal requirement.

Transportation
Not all Homestay are available close to the University, therefore you will need to consider transportation options. There are some situations where you may need to have a car or bike, as the public transport in rural King and Snohomish county may not match your timetable.

If Homestay is for you then read about the costs involved and how to place an application.