How to Find a Homestay in the UK

August 22, 2024

Did you know if you search for “how to find a homestay in the United Kingdom as an international student,” Google returns over 1.5 million results? That’s a lot of information to sort through! As an international student, if you’re considering living in homestay accommodations, it’s important to find somewhere that’s safe and suits your needs.

While what a homestay looks like can vary, at its core it’s the opportunity to stay with a local family for a fee. You’ll always have a private room, and access to amenities like laundry and internet are common. Some hosts will cook all your meals. Others will provide access to the kitchen and space for your food. Or, you can choose an option somewhere in between.

Many international students live with a host family while studying abroad, as it can:

Be a budget-conscious way to live in a larger city
Build your friend network
Help you live like a local in your new home
Introduce you to new traditions and places

Below, we’ll explore what staying in a homestay in the UK is like, and share how to find one.

Studying abroad is a big decision, and location matters. Check out our blog on how to choose where to study in the UK.

Is Homestay Right For You?

Before you start looking, really think about if a homestay is your best option. For example, most families in the United Kingdom speak English at home, so students who want to improve their English could be a great fit!

Also consider:

Host Family Dynamics: Are you comfortable living with folks of different ages, or would you prefer to live with other students? Host families range in age and composition: everyone from a retired single parent to a large family with a house full of kids and pets.
House Rules: You might have to follow specific house rules. Generally, though, the homestay organization will provide a framework for each family and student to follow.
Transportation: Homestays are off-campus and, especially in larger cities, can be located 20 to 50 minutes from the city centre or your institution’s campus. This can impact your transportation budget and how long it takes to get to class.

Homestay Fees and Amenities

The cost to stay in a UK homestay varies depending on where you’re studying and what’s offered. Rooms with ensuite bathrooms, or with all meals provided, can be more expensive than one with a shared bathroom or where breakfast is included but you’re otherwise self-sufficient. For some providers, homestays are more expensive over the summer months.

In general, London has a higher cost of living, and in 2024, homestay fees range from £880 to £1,540 per month. Outside of London, institutions in places like Bournemouth offer homestays that range from £600 to £1,100 per month. This is a little higher than student halls on campus (which, per the British Council, average £848/month in London and £664/month elsewhere in the UK, not including food). Students living off-campus in shared, private accommodation can expect to pay, on average, £750/month in London and £554/month elsewhere in the UK (plus food and utilities).

When comparing costs, remember that the monthly cost of a homestay may also include amenities like laundry, utilities, internet access, and food.

Some homestays offer either full-board dining (breakfast, a packed lunch, and an evening meal) or self-catering with access to the kitchen. There are lots of options in-between, too. Are you a vegan, or do you follow a halal diet? Let the homestay organization know and they’ll pair you with a family who can arrange tasty, suitable meals.

From bangers and mash to neeps and tatties, we’ve counted down the top traditional foods to try while studying in the UK.

Finding a Homestay

The best place to look for a homestay is through your academic institution. Because the institution wants to ensure students have an enjoyable study experience, any homestays they recommend must pass an interview and review process. Often, all adults in the home have completed a criminal reference check, as well.

After receiving your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies form, you’ll be sent a different form asking you to apply for accommodation during your studies. If your institution supports it, homestay will be on this form as an option.

The form will ask you about your studies, lifestyle, and dietary needs, as well as what types of housing you’d prefer. If you choose “homestay,” the institution will use this info to match you to a family. Spots can be limited, so we recommend returning the form promptly!

Some academic institutions don’t directly support homestay. So, if homestay isn’t an option on your accommodations form, note on it that you intend to pursue a homestay. Then, it’s wise to check in with the students’ union and housing office during your research. Even if you’re not planning to use their accommodations, these offices know what local housing options look like, along with students’ and tenants’ rights. They may have referrals for homestay organizations and can share how to avoid scams. For example, if you’re asked to pay 12 months’ rent in advance, don’t; this is illegal.

Our handy Arrival Guide can make your first days in the UK as an international student a success.

Work With Trusted Organizations

Doing your homework now can set you up for housing success! Organizations like the British Council and the Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students (AEGIS) provide homestay or guardianship accreditation in the UK, and they can connect you with providers who have passed their assessment. If you pursue a homestay independently, it’s important to apply through a reputable agency.

More strategies:

Arrange your homestay through the university or college, or a reputable organization. Ensure the homestay agency has accreditation from an organization like the British Council.
Ask to view the house before signing on. (You can do this, or have someone you trust do so on your behalf.)
Read your homestay contract carefully, and make sure you understand its contents. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask! Your institution’s International or Housing offices are good resources.
Because a rental contract is a legal document, it’s a good idea to get legal advice before signing. This doesn’t have to be expensive; there may be free or discounted legal options available through your institution or student union.
Ask for copies of homestay agreements and keep them somewhere safe.
Trust your instincts. If something seems strange, check it over with a trusted friend, family member, or someone at your college or university before agreeing to anything.

A homestay can be a rewarding way to live abroad while studying. Use the resources above, and others provided by your academic institution, to find a homestay in the UK that’s safe and welcoming.