How to Become a Beacon Host

What will I need to become a host family?

First and most importantly you need to have a sincere interest in hosting a foreign student. You will also need to have a private furnished bedroom that includes a bed, desk, closet and dresser. The room must have a door and window and conform to safety and fire regulations.

If I sign up with Beacon Home Stay, how long will it take to get a student?

It will depend mostly on what our Client asks for in a home. We match your home's profile with the student's preferences. When we receive the application of a student matching your profile, we will call you and review the student's profile with you. If you agree, we confirm the placement.

When do students usually come?

Students come throughout the year. The peak months are September and January. During the summer we are also very active with short-term group placements.

How old will the student be?

Most of the students coming to Beacon for homestay range in age from 14 to 26 years old. However, we do accept students of all ages and regularly have programs for younger children. On your host application, you can state your age preferences.

Can I choose if I want a boy or a girl?

Yes, your host application will indicate your student preferences.

Which country will my student be from?

Our Clients come from all over the world with a large majority coming from East Asian countries.

How long will the student be staying in our home?

The length of stay will vary from student to student and is often dictated by the program they are registered and the school they attend. It will be a minimum of two months, unless the student is part of a short-term group placement..

Will I lose students or income because Beacon guarantees to students that they can be moved if they are unhappy?

You will always be paid for the time a student spends in your home. It is possible that you could have a student moved from your home as the result of our policy. However, we believe that this same policy continues to generate new students for all of our host families to enjoy. In addition, you could just as easily be on the receiving end of this policy.

How will I be paid?

Beacon Homestay pays you directly each month.

Which school with the student attend?

Beacon homestay students attend a wide range of academic institutions. The majority of students attend post-secondary schools such as Grant MacEwan, 
U of A , and other schools offering English language programs.

How do I sign up for hosting with Beacon Home Stay of Canada Ltd.?

We are always happy to accept new host applications. Just call our listing coordinator, Lois, at 434-7926 and she will be happy to take you through the process. Our application process consists of a telephone interview followed by a group orientation.  An in-home visit by one of our staff members is the final stage.  We also require a security clearance.  After your application has been reviewed and approved we can begin to place students with you.