HOST UK

Take a break from the intensity of study, relax and gain fascinating insights into UK culture far beyond the university campus!

What is HOST UK Programme?

The HOST UK Programme promotes intercultural friendship and understanding by arranging for international students and academics at UK universities to visit host families across the country. Since it was founded in 1987 by the British Council and the Foreign Office, thousands of visitors have enjoyed this experience. In 2020, HOST UK joined the EIL UK family of immersive programmes.

Visit Options:

  • A Day Visit – spend the day exploring the area with a ‘local’ or just being at home.
  • A Weekend Visit – 2-night stay with a family, any time of the year.
  • Festive Stay – enjoy a 3-night stay at Christmas or Easter.

Who are the hosts?

All hosts are volunteers who freely welcome students to share their lives during a short visit. They want to help you feel at home and like to learn about your country and culture too.

Hosts live in every part of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland – cities, towns, seaside, or countryside.

Hosts come from all walks of life: professionals, skilled workers, young families, retired people, singles, couples or mixed-generation families.

About the HOST UK Visit

  • Shared interests: matched with a host interested in you and your culture.
  • Warm welcome: volunteer hosts open their homes and hearts.
  • Funded stays: some universities cover the cost of the visit.
  • Safety first: all hosts carefully checked, approved and registered.
  • Flexible: go on your own, with a friend or bring a family member.
  • Integrate into the community: live like a local, not a tourist.

How to apply?

If you are 18+ and registered as an international student or academic at a university or college in the UK, simply press the red button below and follow the steps.

Notes:

  • If you want your husband, wife, partner or children to join you on your visit, please include them in your application as long as they currently live with you in the UK. We cannot accept applications from visiting family or friends.
  • Apply with an international student friend (they must submit a separate application). Make sure both of you give the same availability dates and travel budget.

* Experience and explore real life in Britain * Learn things that university cannot teach  * Discover new parts of the UK   * Take a refreshing weekend break  * Feel more confident about British culture   * Create international friendships and make special memories  * Find your home-away-from-home

Want to know more?

Complete the form below and a member of the HOST UK team will respond to any queries you might have.