UKEI is committed to providing international students with a caring, welcoming, and secure homestay environment.
High Standards
Committed to the highest levels of safety, care, and suitability in line with AEGIS guidelines.
Strict Selection
All host families undergo a thorough vetting and screening process.
Careful Match
We carefully listen to both parents and students to ensure the most suitable match.
Ongoing Support
Students benefit from stable long-term housing, plus emergency placement if needed.
Our Host Family Services
At UKEI, an officially accredited guardianship provider in the UK, we are dedicated to creating a true “home away from home” for every student. Our team, fluent in Mandarin, English, and Cantonese, ensures clear and caring communication among students, host families, schools, and parents.
Background Checks & Training
All host family members undergo enhanced DBS checks and receive annual safety training and home visits.
Quality Homestay Experience
We provide a safe, clean, and culturally respectful environment tailored to each student’s background and personality.
24/7 Dedicated Support
Beyond holiday care, our team is always available to assist with emergencies in daily life, transport, and healthcare.
Apply to Become a Host Family
UKEI collaborates with caring and responsible families across the UK. As an AEGIS-accredited organisation, we carefully select homestays to ensure safety and support for younger students.
If you meet the criteria below, we warmly invite you to complete the application form. Once submitted, we will be in touch shortly with details about the next steps.

  • Full Name*

  • E-mail*

  • Phone Number*

  • Please Briefly Explain Why You Are Suitable To Become A Host Family?*

  • Verification code

    I have read and agree with 《UKEI Privacy Statement and Cookies Policy》

FAQs About Becoming a Host Family
What Are The Key Criteria for Hosting Students?
1. Safeguarding & Background Checks All household members aged 16 and above must pass a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) background check. Host families are subject to home visits and assessments by local authorities or designated organisations to ensure a safe and secure environment. 2. Living Conditions You must provide the student with a private bedroom equipped with a bed, desk, wardrobe, and proper lighting. The home should be clean, well-heated, and have reliable hot water and internet access to support online learning and communication with parents. 3. Meals Three nutritious meals per day are required. You should be able to accommodate dietary needs based on the student’s health, religious beliefs, or preferences (e.g. vegetarian, halal, nut-free). 4. Care and Supervision Host families are expected to provide reasonable daily supervision, including monitoring routines, travel, and general safety. Younger children (especially under 11) must be accompanied more closely and should not travel alone. Parents, guardians, and schools must be able to contact the host family at any time. 5. Cultural and Language Support You are encouraged to help the student integrate into local culture and improve their English. Host families should have good English communication skills and be patient and open-minded towards students from diverse backgrounds. 6. Emotional Wellbeing Support the student’s emotional needs, particularly during the adjustment period after arrival. Be prepared to offer comfort and care if the student experiences homesickness or personal challenges.

Key Responsibilities of a Host Family
1. Provide a Safe and Comfortable Home A private bedroom with a bed, desk, wardrobe, and basic furnishings Clean and tidy home with heating, hot water, and reliable internet Shared and well-maintained common areas (kitchen, bathroom, etc.) 2. Ensure Proper Meals and Daily Care Provide three healthy meals a day (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner) Respect dietary needs (e.g. vegetarian, halal, nut-free) Support regular routines for sleep, meals, and study 3. Safeguard the Student’s Wellbeing Offer age-appropriate supervision, especially for students under 11 Respond to emergencies and notify guardians or school promptly Maintain a safe environment with all adults DBS-checked 4. Offer Emotional Support and Daily Guidance Help students settle into British life with kindness and patience Monitor emotional wellbeing and offer comfort when needed Assist with daily school prep (e.g. uniforms, timetables) 5. Maintain Good Communication Stay in touch with parents, guardians, and school staff Notify about outings, illness, or other important matters Join required meetings or visits when requested 6. Provide Basic Transport Support (If Agreed) For younger students, help with school runs or local travel Introduce local amenities (bus stops, shops, clinics, etc.)
Note: A host family is not a tutor or full-time nanny, but acts as a responsible and caring guardian figure during the student’s stay.

Ideal Qualities of a Host Family
1. Experience in education, childcare, or supporting teenagers 2. Clean criminal record and good personal reputation 3. A stable home environment that offers consistency and security 4. Willingness to receive training and stay updated on safeguarding policies

Host Family Partnership & Oversight
1. Agreement Required All host families must sign an agreement outlining responsibilities, code of conduct, and emergency contact procedures. 2. Regular Visits & Communication Guardians or schools conduct regular check-ins to monitor the student’s wellbeing and the homestay environment. 3. Emergency Protocols Host families must be aware of procedures for contacting the school, guardian, or emergency services if needed. 4. Insurance Coverage Some schools or guardianship providers may require host families to have home or personal liability insurance covering the student.

Why Partner with UKEI?
1. Thoughtful Matching with Cultural Respect We carefully match students with host families based on lifestyle, interests, and values—fostering a warm, respectful, and inclusive home environment. 2. Full Support, Every Step of the Way From student placement to adjustment guidance and 24/7 emergency support, the UKEI team is here to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience for every host family. 3. Professional Community & Trusted Safeguarding Join our supportive homestay network to connect with other families, share insights, and grow together. UKEI ensures all processes are compliant, caring, and professionally managed.

Host Family Payments & Support
All UKEI host families receive payments to cover accommodation, meals, and general living expenses. We are committed to ensuring your care and commitment are fairly rewarded—so you feel supported and valued while providing a warm, welcoming home.

How UKEI Matches Students with Host Families
At UKEI, we aim to ensure that both students and host families feel comfortable and confident with their placements. Our team works closely with you to find the most suitable match, taking into account personal preferences, lifestyle, and any specific requirements. We’ll keep you informed about student availability and do our best to accommodate your needs.