Become a
host family
Becoming a host family is one of the most exciting adventures you can experience! Families come in all shapes and sizes. There is not a "normal" family. All types of families are considered. Are you single and would enjoy having someone to share your life with and show them your local community? Are you an empty nester that understands the importance of diplomacy through relationship building? Do you have children that are all younger but you feel they would love an older brother or sister? Families with students in high school are great but not necessary.
You are sharing diplomacy at its very best. By living with a family like yours and experiencing an American lifestyle through your lens, these young ambassadors return home with a personal connection and experience that will forever change how they see the United States and the people living here. Likewise, your family will experience first-hand an individual from another culture while gaining a new family member. Families often comment on how they thought they would be providing this and that to a student and in the end, they can't believe how much they gained by welcoming someone into their home. These students are part of your family and should not be viewed as visitors for the next five or ten months. While there are typical cultural hiccups, that is where the learning begins. Open your heart and home to the world. You won't regret it..
Student: Elena from Spain
Host Family: Gady Family from Bloomington
Natural Parents of Elena: Dr. Javier and Sylvia Pizones
Gady Family from Bloomington:
Hosting an exchange student has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and her transition into our family was seamless. From the moment she arrived, it felt like she was meant to be a part of our lives. It’s been amazing to witness the cultural exchange firsthand, as we’ve shared our traditions and learned about hers. From discovering new foods and customs to gaining a fresh perspective on global issues, every day brought something new. It has also brought our family closer together—we now spend more time together, whether it's playing games, exploring new places, or just enjoying each other’s company. The bond we've formed with our exchange student has been deeply fulfilling; seeing her grow, adapt, and truly become part of our family has been a joy. It’s a unique opportunity to not only broaden our own worldview but also to help shape someone else's, creating memories and connections that will last a lifetime. We are so thankful for iGoGo for this opportunity and the chance to work with a wonderful program.
Dr. Javier and Sylvia Pizones:
Our daughter Elena is doing her academic year in the US and it has been a blessing to find Igogo to organize her stay. Igogo has been able to find a wonderful family, full of energy, hospitality, positivity, and affection. Dawna has made our life very easy, in direct contact she has been warm and attentive, she shows a professionalism out of the ordinary, and she has been very resolute in the difficulties we have encountered along the way. The years of experience and the deep knowledge of the needs of both the children who spend the year away and the natural parents who are at a distance are noticeable. Igogo has become an extension of us (the parents) during the exchange year, creating the perfect bond. Igogo takes care of Elena's well-being her integration into the family and the school, following Elena's life very closely, but at the same time respecting her space and privacy. Undoubtedly, a highly recommended choice for the year of exchange.
Elena:
The Gady family has become my second family. We will be a part of each other's lives forever. I want to thank you for all of the effort and dedication you have put into the program and everyone involved. I'll send you pictures from our time in New York!
host family
faq
iGoGo works with partners who perform the pre-screening of student applicants. Students are required to submit complete application materials including current medical records, a teacher recommendation, official academic transcripts, English proficiency exam results, an essay, and a questionnaire. Students are screened through a SKYPE video and audio interview to ensure a level of English proficiency that meets the high school’s enrollment criteria.
Firstly, iGoGo students are considered ambassadors for their countries. While personalities differ, their attitudes and behavior must reflect the highest standards set by our program. Students are here for cultural and academic experiences. They must attend school regularly or enroll uniquely in a cultural only short-term program. If in school, they must maintain a C average in all course work. Students are expected to participate in each family as a member thus experiencing rules and expectations that are normal for the rest of the family. Finally, a student that will try their best to integrate with the culture while building relationships within your family and community.
Most of our students arrive in August for a 5 or 10-month program, returning to their home country in June. Some semester-students arrive in January and remain until June. We also offer a short-term program, in which students stay for 1 to 3 months.
All students have paid any required tuitions to the school before arrival. As it relates to extra-curricular activities, yes, the student’s natural parents agree to send adequate spending money. This money should be enough for personal hygiene items, clothing, social activities, school expenses etc. iGoGo recommends $200 - $400 per month. Keep in mind that each family hosting an F1 student will receive a monthly amount from the natural family to cover any expenses incurred in the home such as food, transportation and activities as a family.
What a wonderful way to show your international student a special part of the world! We encourage all students to travel with their host families if possible. If a long distance trip is planned and the monthly allowance is not sufficient to cover expenses, it is reasonable to share those facts with the local coordinator and we can request more funds to help cover added costs. Seeing your local community through the eyes of a world visitor is a wonderful opportunity for you and them.
All students traveling on the F1 Visa are required to possess medical insurance. This insurance is either provided by iGoGo or the natural parents. Either way, iGoGo is here to help you navigate any illness or sickness. In addition, we provide all plan materials for your local medical providers. These are student insurance policies and are typical in the United States. A sports physical must be at the expense of the student but any accident or illness that arises and is not a part of a pre-existing condition is covered. The natural families are aware that they are responsible for any medical expenses not covered. International students do not carry dental or vision insurance. These would be at their own expense.
Because iGoGo abides by all regulations from the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel, a local coordinator must reside within your community. iGoGo trains these individuals on our policies and all requirements from the school. The unique relationship between a host family and a new international family member is full of learning opportunities. Your local coordinator will be available to talk about situations you may not understand culturally or to give advice. These local professionals are your first line of contact if you need something from iGoGo. Your coordinator will file a monthly report that consists of information shared by you and your international student. Sometimes the school is contacted and information is shared based on how things are progressing academically. iGoGo also has a corporate office where you can reach someone if an emergency arises any time of day or night.