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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers some frequently asked questions to help guide you on your study abroad, host family, or partner journey with Global Bridge Associates.
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Where will I be staying during my study abroad program?Exchange student accommodation is based on a number of factors, including the school they will be attending, and whether they prefer to live with a host family in our homestay program, or in one of the student dorms in our student boarding program.
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Does GBA do background checks on host families?Yes, GBA conducts thorough background checks for all persons over the age of 18 years old residing in the host family home.
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How will I be matched with a host family?GBA closely reviews the international student and host family applications to carefully match you with a host family that we feel you will have the most success with.
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What kind of support do students receive while they are studying abroad?GBA offers international students and host families a wealth of support services to ensure a safe and successful international student experience, From setting up a US student bank account to college planning and interview preparation, we are here to support the student exchange experience from start-to-finish. For a full list of GBA's support services, please visit our Support & Services page.
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What does a host family provide?Host families are responsible for providing: A safe environment A private bedroom with a bed, desk, dresser or closet, and a shared bathroom Meals – students will receive: 2 meals during the week (breakfast and dinner) 3 meals on weekends ( breakfast, lunch and dinner) Transportation to and from school and any additional school activities Support for the international student
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What will I be responsible for paying for?All clothing Any school supplies or books/reading materials you want in addition to those required for school Any meals you eat out with friends or without your host family Any activities you choose to participate in outside of family activities Any specific food items or toiletries that you want outside of the normal ones that your host family buys Your own cell phone and phone charges All travel expenses related to trips back home; any other traveling you do without your host family If your host family takes a vacation, you are responsible for your part of the trip (airfare, admission costs, etc.). If you don’t want to go with them, then other housing arrangements need to be made while they are gone.
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Are there opportunities to travel while I'm on my exchange program?Absolutely! GBA and our partner schools offer a number of opportunities for travel and excursions. See a sample of our excursion offerings here.
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What are the requirements to become a host family?A host family is expected to provide a wholesome, safe, suitable and caring household environment, showing the visting exchange student how to live within a daily American family environment. Students should be provided with: A private room and furnishings Food and meals Transportation Activities and interaction GBA conducts background checks on all members of the host family applicant's household over the age of 18. Read more about the requirements and process to become a host family here.
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Do host families get paid?Yes, Global Bridge Associates compensates hosts families and also offers a referral fee.
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What resources does GBA offer host families throughout the homestay experience?GBA provides personalized services to ensure that exchange students and host families are never alone in their adventure, including: Host family training Conflict resolution The Insider's Guide to Hosting International Students: Written by GBA's co-founders, this guide offers an in-depth look into the joys and challenges of hosting. It’s the ultimate guidebook for both prospective and current host families.
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What am I responsible for providing an international exchange student?A safe environment. A private bedroom with a bed, desk, dresser or closet, and a shared bathroom Meals – students will receive: 2 meals during the week (breakfast and dinner) 3 meals on weekends ( breakfast, lunch and dinner) Transport students to and from school and any additional school activities Support for your student
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What programs/services does GBA offer?Global Bridge Associates offers a wealth of programs to support students, host families, schools and global partners, including: Homestay and boarding management programs Academic and cultural programs Recruiting & Location - Qualified management within the local communities to find the best suited host family for each student Screening - Thorough background checks for anyone over the age of 18 years old. Initial home visit as well as follow-up monthly visits. Support - GBA is the student, school and family liaison by providing support and intervention as needed.
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Does GBA have any child safety policies in place?Yes, GBA is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We adhere to ISP’s Group Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, and expect all GBA staff, contractors, and partners to uphold this commitment.
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Why should I partner with GBA?With over ten years of experience as study abroad consultants, Global Bridge Associates was founded with a passion for supporting international students in their educational journey. Our story is rooted in the belief that a positive homestay or boarding experience can significantly impact a student's academic success and personal development. We strive to continuously improve our services and expand our network of caring host families to accommodate more students from around the world.
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