Make yourself at home

EF Homestay

Stay in an EF Homestay for maximum cultural exchange. Keep in mind that each homestay host is different and unique – just like your family back home.

Some important things to remember

- You may be sharing a room in your EF Homestay with other students of the same gender from your EF Campus.

- The key might be shared between you & your fellow EF students staying with the family. In case you lose the key, you’ll have to pay for a new one. If you are not given a key to the house your Host Family will ensure they are at home to let you in.

- You should always ask your hosts’ permission before bringing friends back to the house.

- Enjoy breakfast and dinner during the week and all meals during the weekend. (If you've booked full board you will get a packed lunch to bring to school/activities).

- Be sure to let your homestay hosts know if you're going to miss a meal.

- Part of living abroad means trying dishes you might not have tasted before. If there are certain foods you really can’t eat for any reason, let the staff at your EF Campus and your homestay hosts know.

- If you get hungry during the day, you’ll need to buy extra snacks for yourself.

- Your hosts will wash your bed linen but you’ll need to clean your own clothes, either at home or at a local laundrette.

- Ask your hosts how it works in their house and speak to your school staff to find out more about how much a laundrette costs.

- Always ask your hosts before using their home telephone to make a call. It’s usually easier to buy a prepaid phone card from the Activities Office at your EF Campus.

- You can always access the internet at your EF Campus. Ask your homestay hosts' permission to use the internet at home. Remember, never download any illegal material from the internet, either at school or your homestay.

EF Campus Living allows you make new friends from day one

EF Residence or EF Campus Living

Whether you choose an EF Residence or EF Campus Living, you'll get the chance to meet new friends and share your experience of living in another country. An EF Residence is usually off-site, while EF Campus Living is usually just steps from your classes. The location of EF Residences can vary, but they’re located near local amenities and public transport links.

Some important things to remember

- You may be sharing a room with other EF students. The number of students in your room varies depending on your destination and your specific residence. You’ll find out who your roommates are when you arrive at your residence.

- Nationalities of students staying together in an EF Residence vary greatly, so it’s a great opportunity to connect with people from around the world.

- Meals provided depend on your destination and residence. Many residences feature shared kitchens where you can prepare your own meals. Speak to your local EF office or EF Campus staff to find out more about catering options.

- It’s a good idea to prepare for your stay abroad by planning a weekly budget. Remember that you’ll be sharing space with other students.

- Alcohol is not allowed on any of EF's premises, including our residences and campuses.

- You may need to bring an accommodation deposit along with you to your destination. Given there are no damages, this will be returned upon your departure.