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Host a Student

A Rewarding Experience for Everyone.

Meet our Students!

Jump straight to the Australia bound student profiles now!
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Hosting an exchange student can be one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences for your whole family. Being a host family means opening your home, hearts and minds to a young person from overseas.

YFU exchange students are eager to learn about Australia and improve their English language skills.

Our host families are open minded, flexible, tolerant and have a sense of humour. They are keen to learn about another country and culture and share their own lives and experiences with their student. The most important requirements are to:

  • make their exchange student feel genuinely welcome
  • help the student become part of their family and local community
  • support the student on their exchange journey
  • immediately inform YFU Student Exchange of any issues affecting the safety and well-being of the student.
  • Adhere to the YFU Student Exchange Child Safety guidelines and policy and contribute to our continuously developing child-safe culture where children and their well-being are at the centre.

Mandatory training and support materials are provided by YFU via our online Volunteer Portal.

In accordance with Australian regulations, hosting an exchange student is voluntary. Host families provide meals and lodging without financial reimbursement, upholding the values of cultural exchange and mutual respect mandated by the Australian regulatory authorities.

Hosting Durations:

You can host a student for three, five, or ten months. Students arrive with at least basic English and are ready to become part of your family and your family life. They are encouraged to participate in daily chores and family activities, enhancing their understanding of Australian culture and contributing to household dynamics.

Student Preparedness:

Each student comes equipped with travel insurance and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), ensuring they are well-prepared for their stay in Australia. They also bring personal spending money for incidentals such as toiletries, school supplies, and personal outings.

Student Profiles:

On our website, you’ll find profiles of students arriving in 2025. These profiles offer a glimpse into the students’ diverse backgrounds and interests, helping you find a great match for your family.

YFU Support & Training:

Each host family and student is supported by a YFU Local Coordinator, who provides initial and ongoing assistance throughout the exchange. Our dedicated professional staff are always on hand to answer questions and support your hosting journey. We foster an open and continuous dialogue to ensure a positive and enriching experience for both the student and your family. A 24/7 emergency phone number is provided to students and host families in case of emergencies.

There is mandatory training for new host families, and we foster support from experienced host families through our host mentor program.

How to become a YFU Host Family

If your family would like to become a host family, please make sure you meet the following requirements:

  • The student must have their own bed but they can share a room with a host sibling of the same gender.
  • The student must be provided with a place to study (can be the kitchen table) and three meals a day.
  • All adult host family and household members (over 18 years) must have a Working with Children check, (known as a ‘Blue Card’ in QLD) sign a Code of Conduct, undergo a Criminal Record Check and be interviewed by YFU Student Exchange.
  • Be willing to attend YFU training and events such as online orientations, which are designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and support for our exchange programs.
  • Ensure that the student adheres to the YFU rules and their visa regulations.

If you are keen to discover how you can open your family home and community to a secondary student from overseas please complete the following form and we will provide more information.

Apply Now!

Inbound Student Profiles

Profiles of students arriving in january 2026 are now available.
If you would like to host, please email us at info@yfu.au - we'd love to hear from you!

Mayline

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French ; Learning; English and Spanish

About Mayline:

Mayline is described as smiley, funny, respectful and kind. She’s also responsible and independent, she helps with household chores, cooks and takes care of her dog and her own space.

While on exchange:

She is excited to embark on her exchange journey to Australia, where she hopes to improve her English for future travel and career opportunities. She looks forward to discovering Australia’s vibrant culture, diverse landscapes and unique biodiversity, while experiencing daily life as a true member of a host family.

Mayline's interests:

She loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking through nature or simply exploring new places. At home, she finds joy in cooking and experimenting with recipes. She’s also passionate about music and enjoys playing the piano to relax and express herself.

Jules

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French ; Learning; English and German

About Jules:

Jules is described as sociable, sporty and responsible. At school, Jules is a high-achieving student with excellent results across all subjects. Teachers describe him as mature, motivated, and a positive influence in class.

While on exchange:

He’s excited to become fluent in English and experience life in Australia, not as a tourist, but as a true member of a host family. He’s looking forward to building friendships, discovering new ways of life, and growing through this adventure.

Jules's interests:

He plays basketball three times a week, competes in weekend games and also enjoys tennis and running. Outside of sports, he loves listening to music (his favourite artists include Katy Perry, Lizzo, and Doja Cat), building Lego and playing video and board games with friends and family.

Gabin

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French; Learning: English, Spanish and Italian

About Gabin:

Gabin is described as joyful, curious and considerate. He’s sociable, loves to chat and enjoys building strong relationships with friends and family. He has travelled extensively, including surf camps, ski trips and visits to London, Venice and Zurich.

While on exchange:

He hopes his exchange will help him grow, gain new perspectives and build lasting connections.

Gabin's interests:

He’s passionate about sports, especially volleyball, which he plays competitively and board sports like surfing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. He also enjoys video games, anime and exploring Japanese culture.

Joyce

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French ; Learning; English and Spanish

About Joyce:

Joyce is described as organized, curious and creative. Her artistic side is balanced by a strong academic focus, she’s a high-achieving student who takes her studies seriously and is always eager to learn. She’s also passionate about languages.

While on exchange:

She’s excited to join a host family in Australia, not as a tourist, but as a true member of the household.

Joyce's interests:

She plays the harp, practices both classical and contemporary dance and loves baking, especially French desserts. She also enjoys drawing, reading, making jewellery and doing crafts in general.

Leonel

  • Country: Uruguay
  • Duration: 10 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: January 2026, Departing: November 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: Pollen and mites (Mild, treated with oral/nasal medication)
  • Languages: Native Language: Spanish; Learning English

About Leonel:

Leonel is described as funny, sensitive and curious. Though he may seem shy at first, he opens up quickly and is known for being fair, kind and a great teammate.

While on exchange:

He’s excited to improve his English, meet new people and try new sports during his exchange year. He hopes the experience will help him grow personally and become more independent.

Leonel's interests:

He enjoys playing sports, especially football, which he’s played in a team for 13 years. He also plays the piano and listens to pop, techno and reggaeton.

Borja

  • Country: Argentina
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: January 2026, Departing: June 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: Spanish; Learning English

About Borja:

Borja describes himself as calm, curious and open to new experiences. He enjoys exploring different activities, learning how things work, and discovering new places. His friends would describe him as laid-back and easy-going, someone who is fun to spend time with.

While on exchange:

Through his exchange, Borja hopes to become more independent and confident while immersing himself in a new culture.

Borja's interests:

Sports are an important part of Borja’s life. He has practiced Taekwon-do for 11 years, plays tennis and more recently started playing padel, which he would love to continue during his exchange. He also enjoys watching soccer and is interested in trying out some typically Australian sports.

Francisca

  • Country: Argentina
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: January 2026, Departing: June 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: Eats Pork, Beef and Dairy, not fish or poultry; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: Spanish; Learning English

About Francisca:

Described as sociable, fun and sporty, Francisca loves spending time with friends and family. Francisca is cheerful, enjoys being active, and has a positive attitude toward new experiences.

While on exchange:

She looks forward to her exchange year as a way to learn more about herself, improve her English, meet new people and try new activities.

Francisca's interests:

She’s been playing field hockey in a team for six years and hopes to continue during her exchange. Her passion for sports has taught her teamwork, discipline and perseverance.

Zoé

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French ; Learning: English and Spanish

About Zoé:

Zoé is a 14-year-old student from northern France. Described as sociable, talkative and adaptable.

While on exchange:

Zoé is excited to experience Australian culture, improve her English, and try new sports and activities. She’s open to living in a smaller community and with families of different backgrounds. She hopes to share her French culture, especially her love of food and animals, with her host family.

Zoé's interests:

She’s passionate about horse riding. She also enjoys reading, baking, gardening, and spending time with friends.

Thibault

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French ; Learning; English and Spanish

About Thibault:

Thibault is a 15-year-old student from a city in northern France. Described as curious and lively..

While on exchange:

Excited to experience the Australian school system, which he believes offers more time for extracurricular activities and a different approach to learning. He’s excited to improve his English, discover Australian culture, and share his own.

Thibault's interests:

He’s passionate about rugby and loves board sports like skateboarding, freestyle biking, wakeboarding, foiling, and kitesurfing. He’s eager to try surfing while in Australia and is drawn to the country’s strong sporting culture. He’s also a talented artist, spending evenings drawing and painting using various techniques.

Nathael

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French; Learning English and Spanish

About Nathael:

Nathaël is a 15-year-old student from a city near Paris, France. Described as energetic, observant, and goal-oriented.

While on exchange:

He’s excited to immerse himself in Australian culture, improve his English and experience a new way of life. He hopes to share his French culture, play sports, and connect with his host family through everyday life and shared interests.

Nathael's interests:

Nathaël is passionate about sports, especially handball. He’s starting rugby and also enjoys football, basketball, cycling, swimming, and strength training. He’s excited to try surfing and Australian football during his exchange. He’s a keen chess player, both online and in person, and loves board games, particularly strategic ones.

Héloïse

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French; Learning English and Spanish

About Héloïse:

Héloïse is a 15-year-old student from a suburb of Paris, France. Described as sociable, talkative and full of energy.

While on exchange:

She’s excited to come to Australia to improve her English, discover a new culture, and experience a different school system. She’s eager to share her French culture, cook traditional dishes, and learn about Australian life.

Héloïse's interests:

Her greatest passion is horse riding. Héloïse also enjoys playing the recorder, Javanese Gamelan and reading fantasy novels, especially the Keeper of the Lost Cities series.

Hannah

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French; Learning: English and Spanish

About Hannah:

Hannah is a 15-year-old student from a city in northern France. She describes herself as kind, sociable and open-minded, though she admits she can be a little shy at first.

While on exchange:

She’s excited about the opportunity to live in Australia, improve her English, and experience a new culture and way of life.

Hannah's interests:

A passionate horse rider, Hannah has been riding since she was three and now practices vaulting, dressage and jumping. During holidays, she often travels with her family to the south of France or abroad.

Ilona

  • Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: April 2026, Departing: August 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: French; Learning; English and Spanish

About Ilona:

Ilona is a 15-year-old student from a city in northern France. describes herself as kind, energetic and independent. She’s a warm and helpful person who loves connecting with others and pushing herself to grow.

While on exchange:

She’s excited to join a host family in Australia and hopes to build a strong bond, sharing her culture and learning about ours. Looks forward to try new activities, perhaps even surfing! and hopes her exchange will help her grow in confidence and independence.

Ilona's interests:

A passionate swimmer, Ilona trains five times a week and has been swimming since she was three. She also enjoys drawing, which helps her feel calm and focused and takes weekly art classes.

Elena

  • Country: Argentina
  • Duration: 5 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: January 2026, Departing: June 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: Spanish; Learning English

About Elena:

Elena is a 15-year-old student from Argentina. She is described as funny, outgoing, and trustworthy, with a sociable and polite nature. She has many friends and enjoys being part of a community.

While on exchange:

She hopes her exchange will help her grow socially and personally, improve her English, and connect with people from different cultures. She’s excited to experience life in Australia and bring her Argentinian warmth, humour, and love for hockey to her host family.

Elena's interests:

She’s passionate about hockey, which she’s played in a team for three years and she’s excited to continue playing during her exchange. She also enjoys cooking, especially sweet treats and loves doing activities with others.

Solange

  • Country: Argentina
  • Duration: 10 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: January 2026, Departing: November 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: Does not eat pork; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: Spanish; Learning English (Bilingual)

About Solange:

Solange is a 16-year-old student from Argentina. She is described as talkative, affectionate and focused, especially when it comes to the things she’s passionate about. She comes from a large, supportive family.

While on exchange:

Solange hopes her exchange will help her become more independent and confident in handling challenges on her own. She’s excited to experience Australian culture, meet new people, and share her Argentinian warmth, energy, and love for basketball with her host family.

Solange's interests:

She’s been playing basketball in a team for 12 years and finds it both grounding and energising. She also enjoys surfing, going to the gym, and is eager to try new, slightly adventurous activities during her exchange.

Sofia

  • Country: Finland
  • Duration: 10 Months
  • Dates: Arriving: January 2026, Departing: November 2026
  • Dietary: Dietary Requirements: None; Allergies: none
  • Languages: Native Language: Finnish; Learning English, German and Swedish

About Sofia:

Sofia a 17-year-old student from Finland. She is described as kind, caring and thoughtful, with a strong sense of responsibility and a love for helping others. She’s self-motivated, organised and enjoys contributing to household chores.

While on exchange:

She hopes her exchange will help her grow in confidence, independence and adaptability, while building meaningful connections and experiencing life in a new country.

Sofia's interests:

Her passion for aesthetic group gymnastics, which she’s practiced for 11 years, has taught her discipline, teamwork and perseverance. She also enjoys swimming, snowboarding and going to the gym.
Ecuador