Find a reputable agency, such as the Foundation for Foreign Study or the Center for Cultural Interchange, to work through to find an exchange student. You can use the Internet as a resource, but it's a good idea to make phone calls as well. Ask for references when you speak with a representative.
Meet the age requirements to become a host family. Agencies often require that at least one parent be at least 25 years of age before hosting a student.
Meet the income requirements. Though the agency may not have restrictions on income, it's important to consider whether you can afford to provide for another person living in your home.
Meet the bedroom space requirements. College-aged students should not share a room with a minor. If you are hosting more than one student of the same sex, they may share a room as long as they each have their own bed and sufficient space for personal belongings.
Undergo a thorough background check and in-home interview. You'll also have to fill out an extensive application and provide personal references.
Give your exchange student their own personal space; a separate bed, some room for storage and any other items that will make their room seem welcoming.
Students should have a quiet place to study and access to the Internet. This is especially important for college students, since they will spend significant amounts of time doing schoolwork.
Be available for your student when needed. Provide daily meals with the family and assist the student with transportation when possible.
Include the foreign student by treating them as one of the family. Students staying with a host family are expected to assist with chores and follow the household rules.