Short-Term Homestay

The Short-Term Homestay program is a cultural exchange program of FFIS and not just temporary housing. The purpose of the homestay program is to welcome new international students to our community by providing short-term hospitality, settling-in support and a safe place to stay before students move into their permanent housing. FFIS hosts are volunteers and are genuinely interested in learning about other cultures and sharing our American culture.

The homestay program is free to newly admitted international students and operates fall, winter and spring terms. The average length of the homestay is 3-5 days, but it can extend to 7-14 days depending on permanent housing availability. Pre-registration is required by students but due to limited availability of FFIS hosts from year to year, placement is not guaranteed. FFIS will make every attempt to place each student that submits a request for a homestay by the application deadline. If FFIS cannot place a student, the student will be notified two weeks before International Student Orientation begins.

FFIS Host Responsibilities

• Pick student up at the Eugene airport, bus or train station upon arrival

• Host student/s from arrival date until they move into their permanent housing

• Introduce your student to the Eugene-Springfield community including where to bank, where to shop for essential items, and how to use public transportation

• Engage with your international student so s/he feels welcomed, safe and supported

• Get student to UO campus for the start of International Student Orientation