Experience life with a Canadian family and gain valuable insights into local culture.
Once your homestay placement is confirmed, you will be able to contact your host family and begin building a positive relationship. Asking questions and getting support will help you adjust more smoothly to your new life as a student at Niagara College.
- If you are studying for one month only, the fee is $950, payable upon arrival.
- For studies lasting one or two months, payment covers the entire period, with no additional daily charges unless you extend your stay.
- If you are part of a group program, your homestay fee may be included in your overall package.
- A minimum stay of two months with your homestay is required. If you choose to move, it is recommended to do so between academic terms.
- If you require a receipt for your payments, please request one from your homestay family.
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival | $1,900 | First and last month’s rent due at arrival |
| Monthly | $950 | Due on the first day of each month |
| Daily | $35 | Charged per day (if applicable) |
Your meals are provided by your homestay family, and you can expect to eat Canadian-style food. You may be asked to prepare your own breakfast and lunch, and your family will show you what foods you can use or take for these meals.
Dinner is typically a shared family experience. It is common for all household members to sit down together, enjoy a meal, and talk about their day. Be sure to ask your host what time dinner is served so you can be home on time. If you will not be home for dinner, it is very important to let your host know in advance.
Meals are included in your homestay fee, but you may have to purchase foods or drinks that the family does not regularly use if you are still hungry between meals. This is a great way to become familiar with local grocery stores and prices.
If you enjoy cooking, talk with your family about preparing your own meals. Many students find that sharing meals is one of the best ways to learn about Canadian culture and to spend meaningful time with their hosts. While it may feel different at first, most students come to appreciate and enjoy these customs.
Living with a Canadian family may be a new experience, and understanding household expectations will help you adjust more easily.
Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind:
Personal Hygiene
In Canadian culture, good hygiene is very important. Please remember to:
- Shower daily
- Use deodorant
- Brush your teeth each day
Bathroom Etiquette
- Showers should be kept to 10 minutes or less
- Toilet paper is flushed down the toilet
- Sanitary products should be wrapped and placed in the garbage, not flushed
Laundry
- Ask your host to show you how to use the washing machine and dryer
- Do laundry only when you have a full load
- Wash clothes after 7:00 p.m. or on weekends when energy costs are lower
Energy Use
- Turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use
- Electricity in Canada is more expensive during peak hours, so conserving energy is appreciate
Internet, Computers & Cell Phones
- You are encouraged to bring or purchase your own computer for home use
- Internet use should be respectful and reasonable — excessive use may lead to disconnection
- Niagara College has computer labs available for students at no cost
- If your cell phone does not support a Canadian SIM card, you may need to purchase a new phone
Always ask your homestay family for permission before inviting any guests, even for a short visit.
- Family or friends visiting you should stay in a hotel.
- If your homestay can accommodate guests, a fee of $35 per person, per day applies.
- Romantic partners are generally not allowed to stay overnight.
- Friends should not expect to receive meals regularly at your homestay.
Open and respectful communication with your host family is key. If you are unsure about something, just ask — they are there to help you feel welcome and supported.
Most issues can be resolved through open and respectful communication. If any concerns arise, students or host families are encouraged to complete the following form that will be reviewed by NC’s Housing and Settlement Advisor:
If you are planning to move out of your homestay, please complete this survey to provide your official 30 days’ notice. Your feedback also helps us improve the homestay experience for future students.