Depending on when you apply, you may have to wait to receive your possible matches. Usually student information is available for matching about 60 days before arrival.
For some spring school groups, matches are made by the local teacher. For summer groups, you may have the option to review the student profiles to determine a few that might fit in well with your family.
More than gender or age, common interests usually determine the success of a match. If the student likes the same kinds of activities that you normally engage in, you are more easily able to include them in your daily lives and the experience will be more fun for everyone.
We also look at any special circumstances like pet allergies, whether they prefer a rural or urban experience, etc. We’ll send you information on your possible matches and work with you to make a decision. Please note that there are usually more boys than girls coming to the U.S. so if you are able to host a boy, you will have more match options to review.