Why choose a homestay?

Cestar’s International Student Homestay Program offers a comfortable,home atmosphere where students can live with a Canadian family. These host families are carefully selected by Cestar High School with the students’ comfort and safety in mind. They are very experienced in hosting international students and can provide a safe, comfortable and caring living environment. There are many opportunities for local community involvement by joining host family activities. It provides a daily opportunity for international students to improve their practical English skills, learn Canadian culture, try new foods and make new friends. Moreover, these families are in frequent communication with Cestar and are willing to help students integrate into the local culture.

To ensure that our students’ stay is comfortable, safe and of top quality we:

• Screen all adults in the home with police check performed through the Toronto Police Department.
• Inspect each home before and during the student’s stay to ensure that quality is maintained.
• Ensure students are taken care as members of a family, in a “home away from home” setting. Homestay families include the visiting student as a new member of the family; participating in family meals, going on outings, trying new activities.
• Ensure that three, healthy meals with a variety of foods are provided for each day.
• Work hard at communication. There is frequent and open communication amongst Cestar High School, homestay and parents. Interpreters are available as needed.
• Collect only pre-approved fees and expenses. There are no additional fees to surprise you during your student’s stay. Financial transactions are between the school and the host family, not the student.
• Ensure that all homestay families must meet our high standards of quality and care.

International students who plan to live with Canadian local families are required to apply before they come to Canada.  To participate in our homestay program, please fill out the International Student Homestay Application Form. A Homestay coordinator will find the most suitable family according to the student’s requirements listed on the Homestay Application Form.