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Homestay

Moving away from everything you know to start university is a huge leap – especially if you’re leaving family behind, or will need to adjust to a new culture. Instead of diving headfirst into what can be a daunting new life experience, partaking in a local homestay is an excellent way to soften this transition.

Why homestay?

For those unfamiliar with the concept of homestay, it’s a short-term living experience that’ll see you live with a local Gold Coast family while you adjust to university and your new surroundings. It takes the pressure off you as you navigate a different city, country or culture, and lets you settle in at your own pace with the support of some friendly faces.  

Your homestay host family will welcome you into their home, show you around the Gold Coast, and provide your accommodation. Homestay students generally stay in a single room and are provided with study facilities, as well as regular meals (often breakfast and dinner during the week and a full day of meals of a weekend).  

Bond’s homestay programs run through the Australian Homestay Network.  

Who is homestay for?

Homestay through the Australian Homestay Network is for international students commencing study at Bond University in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Think of it as a cultural exchange – a chance to immerse yourself and better understand what life is like in Australia before you actually go out there and live it! It’s also a great opportunity to practice your English with your Host Family, if you are not a fluent speaker.  

It’s likely you will build lasting relationships with your Host Family that will see you through your university studies and beyond. Most students who undertake homestay leave their experience with strong connections and an established sense of place amongst the Gold Coast community.  

How to get started  

If you are an arriving international student and want to pursue homestay, it’s recommended you live with your Host Family for at least four weeks to truly benefit from the experience. The Australian Homestay Network is partnered with Bond University, and can see you through the entire process, from application to acceptance and beyond.  

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A day in the life of a Bond student