Host family accommodation

Host family accommodation 

Choosing to stay with a host family will give you a great introduction to life in the UK. There are several good reasons to consider living with a host family:

  • You will be able to perfect your English language skills as you will always have to communicate with your family in English
  • A host family may well help you deal with feelings of homesickness or culture shock, and they will give you an excellent insight into British customs and traditions
  • You will meet people outside of the University, from all different walks of life, which will give you a really diverse and fruitful experience of the UK
  • Finding your way around and discovering everything there is to know about the area will be much easier - a host family will be able to give you a true understanding of the local culture and social scene and point you in the direction of the best places to visit. You will discover hidden gems that you might well have missed out on otherwise!

Applying to stay with a host family

The University has an approved Host Family Accommodation List and all of the rooms on this list have been inspected as required by the British Council regulations.

To apply to stay with one of these families, you have two options:

  • Send an email to Tom Rouvray, Senior International Student Advisor, tom.rouvray@beds.ac.uk with your requirements. Tom will then endeavour to reserve a room with an appropriate host family
  • Collect a copy of the Host Family Accommodation List from the International Office, or email advice.international@beds.ac.uk requesting an emailed copy, and then contact the families themselves directly
What to expect

You will live with a family, in their home, as a paying guest. You will have your own room with a bed and usually a desk. Depending on your agreement with your host family, and the amount of rent you pay, meals may be provided. You will be able to use all of the household facilities but if you are unsure of anything it is best to check with your host first.

All utilities (electric, gas and water) are included, but you will be expected to pay for any telephone calls so it is usually advisable to use your personal mobile phone or a service like Skype, especially if you are making international calls.

Usually, host family accommodation will be non-smoking. If you do wish to smoke, please ensure you speak to your host about a designated place, likely to be outside, where you can smoke.

It is your responsibility to be a good guest, so we would advise you to treat your host family with respect and observe the following courtesies:

  • If you are staying out overnight, let someone know so that they do not worry
  • If you normally eat meals with the family but cannot make it let someone know
  • If you break or damage something accidentally, let your host know as soon as possible and offer to pay
  • Keep your bedroom and any facilities you use, including the kitchen and bathroom, clean and tidy
  • Be sensitive to the needs of the family, particularly if they have young children

Generally students do not have any problems when staying with Host Families and the experience is very positive. However, if you do have any worries or issues, please talk to your host and let them know so that they can help if possible. If you are still unhappy, please come along to the International Office and speak to one of the Student Advisors.

Bedfordshire University

International» Accommodation for international students» Host family accommodation