Staying with a Canadian family in a Homestay and studying English in an English Language Program is the fastest way to improve your English skills and learn about Canadian culture.

Most students stay in a Homestay when they first arrive in Canada for 2 or 3 months to settle into life in Canada and to make friends. Students can quickly improve their English speaking skills because they must communicate in English every time they meet their host family. You will improve your English and learn what it honestly means to be Canadian.

Homestay also provides an economical alternative to other accomodations since meals are already included in a Homestay Package.

For those who are currently studying and would like to learn a new language and culture during school breaks, Homestay is definitely a popular choice of accommodation. These students can participate in Summer English Programs offered by many English schools. Usually, Summer English Programs incorporate many fun filled activities into an English Study Program curriculum.

English Requirements

There are usually no English requirements to enter a Homestay and English Language Program. However, we suggest that you can at least have a simple conversation in English because it will be easier to speak to the host family and you will be more comfortable.

Academic Requirements

Most homestay families and schools do not have any academic requirements to enter their programs.

Start Dates

Most programs begin once or twice a month. For Summer English Programs, start dates vary greatly but usually there are 2 intakes every month starting in July to August.

Cost

The cost varies by the program, accommodation option and location.

There are two cost components that you must consider in applying to a Homestay Program:

• The cost of the Homestay accomodation itself and
• The tuition fee of the English program.

The fee for a Homestay with 2 meals a day usually runs from CAD 700 to CAD 850 per month. Many homestays also offer additional options such as internet connection, private bathroom and cable TV. 

Tuition fees for the English Program varies by the program type, location and many other factors. A typical Intensive General English Program runs from CAD 1100 to CAD 1500 for a 4 week duration. Often, the longer you study, the cheaper the tuition as many schools offer large discounts for longer study periods. You also have to consider the additional fees you may incur. For example, some programs offer free study materials, some programs do not. 

Extra Options for Homestay Accomodations

As mentioned above, many additional options are offered aside from the basic Homestay Package. Students may elect to have a private bathroom, private cable TV in their room, internet access, extra meals and many more options. Please note however that students must provide their own laptop or computer. The availability of these extra options will depend on the demands at the time of the application. 

Homestay accomodation are in great demand during peak seasons which run from June to October. It is advised that you apply early to accomodate application processing and immigration time. 

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