Independent Homestay in France

A homestay program is a wonderful opportunity to explore everything that France has to offer. The objective of the program is for participants to learn about the culture and daily life of the host country through their host family, whether it be on family outings, get-togethers or just hanging out at home.

Locations

You may choose either the Independent Homestay program throughout France or the Independent Homestay program in Paris and the surrounding suburbs.

If you choose the program throughout France you may request up to three regions of preference within France. While we will make the best effort to meet requests, they are not guaranteed.

If you choose the program in Paris and the surrounding suburbs your placement could either be in a suburb of Paris or nearer to the city. Please note the different terms and conditions that apply to this program in the following paragraphs.

Accommodation and Meals

Host families represent all walks of life, just like families from your home country. Your family may be a couple with or without children, a single parent, or a single person interested in other cultures. CCI works together with partner offices in France to find the best match for you according to your unique profile and interests. Our partner office maintains a network of trained local coordinators who select, screen, and monitor host families to help make a placement that is appropriate for you.

Within each family you will experience a different dynamic, but they are all motivated by the idea of making cross-cultural friendships. They will be eager to learn about you and your culture and are excited to teach you about their own. Your host family placement will include full board (3 meals per day) for the program throughout France and half board (2 meals daily) for the Paris and surrounding suburbs program.

Activities and Sightseeing

Typical family activities might include visiting relatives, going to the movies, and enjoying meals together. Families do not expect for you to be just a boarder, but rather a friend and a part of their family. While the main focus of the program will be getting to know your host family and spending time with them, you will have the chance to see local attractions as well. Exploring the community in which you live can be a great way to further your knowledge of the local culture and language. However, you should feel comfortable traveling on your own, as host families are not required or expected to be tour guides.

Local Support

Homestay participants will have a local coordinator available to them throughout their stay to help with any difficulties or questions. He or she is trained to work with exchange participants and is there to help you make the most of your experience.

Travel Arrangements

All travel arrangements must be booked according to CCI instructions. Booking travel is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you figure out the best way to get to your host community. Some placements are within a reasonable driving distance from the central airport, making it easy to hop in a cab that will take you to your new home. In most cases you will need to take a train or public bus to your host community. CCI can arrange for a local coordinator to meet you at the airport and make sure you get on the correct train or bus. However, you should be prepared to make some transfers independently.

Dates

The homestay program in France is a 1-4 week program, and participants may set their own start and end dates throughout the year.

Requirements

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. For Paris and surrounding suburbs you must be 18 or older. Basic French is required in order to communicate with your host family. Although many French families may know some English, it should not be expected.

Need more information?
Request a Brochure

Send us a message

Feel free to contact us by phone toll free (in the U.S. only), 1-888-ABROAD-1 (888-227-6231).

More information about Independent Homestay (adults)

More information about Independent Homestay (teens)

Other programs in France