The Comox Valley is once again preparing to welcome a vibrant group of international students for the 2025-2026 school year and local families are being asked to open their homes to students from around the world.
The Comox Valley Schools International Student Program is currently seeking host families for high school students arriving in September 2025.
These students, coming from countries such as Japan, Germany, Brazil, and South Korea, bring with them a wealth of cultural diversity, global perspectives, and an eagerness to experience life on Vancouver Island.
Hosting an international student is more than just providing a place to stay, it鈥檚 about creating a home away from home. Host families are essential to the success of these students, offering not only a safe and supportive environment, but also a chance to be immersed in Canadian life. In return, families have the unique opportunity of learning about another culture firsthand.
鈥淚t鈥檚 been an incredibly enriching experience for our whole family,鈥� said Michelle, a Courtenay resident who has hosted several students over the years. 鈥淲e鈥檝e learned about new traditions, shared Canadian holidays, and made lifelong friendships. Our kids have also gained a better understanding of the world beyond our community鈥�
Students typically attend one of the local high schools and stay with their host families for a semester or the full academic year. Hosts receive a generous monthly stipend to help cover costs, as well as continuing support and guidance from the international program鈥檚 homestay coordinators.
Families of all types are welcome whether they have young children, teens, or are empty nesters. What matters most is the willingness to share daily routines, offer guidance, and treat your guest as a member of the family.
鈥淗osting helps build bridges between cultures,鈥� said Youn Hee Edmonds, Homestay Supervisor with Comox Valley Schools. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a chance to make a real difference in a young person鈥檚 life, while also giving your own family a chance to grow and learn in unexpected ways.鈥�
Anyone interested in hosting is encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as the program is still looking to place about 30 students for the fall. Please contact Youn Hee Edmonds at Younhee.edmonds@sd71.bc.ca or call our office at 250-703-2904 for more information.
