Cultural Homestay International

Cultural Homestay International (CHI) was founded on the belief that the best way to eliminate international fears and prejudices is to learn about the cultures, languages, and customs of people from other countries. CHI considers a homestay experience the ideal way to promote citizenship diplomacy and to develop long lasting friendships and understanding among the peoples of the world. Since 1980, more than 100,000 young people have visited North America through CHI’s programs, living with volunteer host families and participating in rewarding, life-changing educational experiences.

CHI’s inbound programs include students from  15 countries around the world.

CHI’s AYP students are supported by local coordinators and regional managers across the United States, dedicated to the philosophy of student cultural exchange programs. CHI’s Academic Coordinators interview and screen volunteer host families and are the local contact for students and their host families throughout the year. Academic Coordinators conduct orientations, complete monthly reports, arrange activities and provide on-going support, acting as a liaison between the students, schools and host families.

 Academic High School Semester/Year in the United States—Students aged 15-18 years old from around the world attend CHI’s Academic Year Program for a semester or a school year, living with volunteer families across the U.S. and attending local high schools. Students complete extensive applications and must submit results from an approved English language proficiency test. Orientations are conducted by CHI’s trusted overseas partners prior to embarking on the program and then by CHI’s field staff upon arrival. During their program, students learn about American culture in their host families, schools and their adopted communities, developing fluency in English and meaningful lifelong friendships.