Do you get paid to host a foreign exchange student? If you have a spare room in your home, then the answer is yes. With StudentRoomStay, you can earn extra income and experience a new culture without having to travel abroad yourself.
Hosting an exchange student can be easier than many think. Students usually don’t care about luxurious accommodations—they’re more focused on living college life and studying. Renting a room to host students can also be profitable since you can charge per room.
These benefits have expanded the appeal of hosting, as more families host international students and get paid.
Interested in hosting?
If you’re ready, you can officially apply here:
https://amp.studentroomstay.com/host
Do You Get Paid to Host an Exchange Student?
The norm today is for host families to get paid, but this wasn’t always the case. Exchange programs used to involve one-to-one swaps where families hosted unpaid. Even now, families who host students on J-1 visas cannot be paid.
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/Images/Stock images/bbq (1).jpg
Today, most international students come to the U.S. to study and expect to pay for room and board. Homestay companies help match hosts with students and support both parties.
Differences between paid and unpaid hosting can influence expectations. A paid homestay doesn’t doom the relationship, but clarity matters.
If you rent out a room, your student may or may not want to be fully immersed in your family. Host families agree to support and welcome students, while simple room rentals involve fewer responsibilities. You and your student can discuss boundaries and expectations.
Find a Hosting Agency for Exchange Students
If you want to host an exchange student and get paid, you’ll need to work with a reliable agency.
(Add image here in Notion)
The industry has grown quickly, meaning many agencies are competing for hosts. This gives you options, but also requires research. Some companies cut corners, causing confusion or unsafe situations.
Don’t decide based solely on the highest stipend. A reputable, stable, transparent agency is far more valuable. When you become a host with StudentRoomStay, our team supports you every step of the way.
Things to look for:
- Are they CSIET accredited?
- Do they answer questions clearly and quickly?
- Are they thorough with safety, insurance, and documentation?
- Do they have a proven track record?
- Are they transparent about expectations?
Learn more in the Complete Guide to Hosting an International Student:
https://studentroomstay.com/host-foreign-exchange-student-complete-guide
Responsibilities of a Paid Host Family
To earn your stipend, you must provide certain services. Many people see the stipend amount and assume easy income, but hosting brings real responsibilities.
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/Images/Stock images/together working (1).jpg
Most agencies require:
- A private bedroom with closet space and possibly a desk
- Three meals per day (varies by program)
- Transportation to and from school for academic activities
How Much Money Can You Make Hosting?
Hosting can earn anywhere from $30/day to $1,400/month, depending on region, length of stay, and company.
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/Images/Stock images/working (1).jpg
Short-term students earn daily stipends of $30–$85+ per day.
Long-term students (10 months) usually receive around $900/month or more, depending on region and competition among agencies.
How Much Does It Cost to Host?
Hosting adds expenses to your household budget.
Providing a Private Bedroom, Closet Space, and Desk
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/Images/Stock images/bedroom-1024x768.jpg
Utilities
More electricity, water, and internet usage.
Bedding
Provide clean bedding, towels, and possibly a new mattress.
Desk & Storage
Students need study space and room for belongings.
Tidying the Room
Deep cleaning may be needed before they arrive.
Meals
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/Images/Stock images/food (1).jpg
Grocery Budget
Plan for an extra person at each meal.
Eating Out
You may need to cover meals out unless discussed beforehand.
Transportation
(Add image here in Notion)
Gas & Mileage
Factor in additional driving.
School-Related Activities
Sports and clubs may require extra trips.
Renting a Room to Students
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/shutterstock_1495618376 (1).jpg
Renting to international students is similar to renting locally. Students over 18 are adults, so responsibilities are lighter than traditional hosting. You can still earn around $1,000/month.
Check local laws, HOA rules, and safety requirements. Contact your insurance company if needed.
Tax Considerations
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/Images/Stock images/tax (1).jpg
Stipends are taxable. Companies issue a 1099, and hosts are treated as independent contractors.
If renting, you’ll pay taxes on rental income and may deduct related expenses.
Earn Money Renting Your Room or Hosting With StudentRoomStay
(Add image here in Notion)
Image: https://go.ameristudent.com/hubfs/shutterstock_746326987 (1).jpg
We hope this guide helps you understand the realities of hosting or renting to international students. StudentRoomStay offers competitive stipends, 24/7 support, and local representatives.
If you’re more interested in renting, we offer full onboarding, support, and streamlined payments.
Have questions or want to speak with a representative? We’re here to help you begin your hosting journey with confidence.
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}