FAQs

What does hosting an AEP student look like?

AEP host families will be asked to provide for their student: transportation to and from the airport, an average of 2 square meals a day, and a comfortable, safe accommodation for their student. What you would hope for your own child’s host family we ask that you provide for the student you host.

We ask that host families assist with transportation to and from AEP activities whenever possible. We allow host students, with a valid driver’s license, to drive visiting students as long as both sets of parents sign off on this before the trip.

How long is the exchange?

An AEP exchange typically runs one week, from Wednesday to Wednesday.

Is there a stipend for host families?

Yes! Host families will receive a stipend to help minimize the cost of student(s’) meals and transportation costs for their stay. Contact your local Exchange Manager for more information.

Will I need to be with the student 24/7 during the exchange?

A lot of the student’s time will be spent outside of the home at activities with their fellow AEPers, but there will be opportunities for the student to spend time with your family and learn about life in your community from your family’s perspective. You may also be invited to participate in some activities as part of the AEP family.

AEP requires that a responsible adult is in the home between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. when the student you are hosting is not at an exchange activity.

How many students can I host?

AEP host families usually host 1-2 students, but can host more if space allows.

Can the student stay on a pull-out bed or air mattress in a spare room or office?

Yes. AEP’s primary concern is that student accommodations are safe. If you have questions about what accommodations you are able to provide, please discuss them with your local Exchange Manager.

Can students share a room?

Students can share a room provided they have separate beds/mattresses, are of the same biological sex, and are within two years of age. Students cannot share a room with a member of the opposite biological sex. AEPers cannot share a bed with another person under any circumstances.

Who decides which student stays with each host family?

Your Local Exchange Manager is the primary person in charge of the student/host family pairing process. Placements are made based on information that is provided about each student and host family, along with input from the student American Exchange Committee and host families.

Will I be able to meet the student(s) I’m hosting before the exchange?

Yes, shortly after students find out where they are traveling on AEP Day (March 1), there will be a Zoom meeting for traveling students and host families to meet and get to know each other. Contact information will also be shared in case either the student or host family would like to have additional contact before the exchange.

When do I sign up to be an AEP host family?

The 2024 signup form is currently open and we are reviewing families for this summer. Sign up now if interested.

How do I sign up to host a student? What is the vetting process?

The first step is to fill out the host family form where you will be asked to provide information about your home, the hostee’s accommodation, and members of your household. You must also agree to a brief interview with your local Exchange Manager and provide references, who will be contacted by the Exchange Manager.

If you are selected as an AEP host family, every adult 18 and over that will be in the household while you are hosting a student must pass a third-party state and federal background check, paid for by AEP.

Are there any other requirements for host families?

In the spring, Exchange Managers will hold brief host family meetings where you will find out more about the itinerary for the exchange in your community and have a chance to ask any questions.

How will my family benefit from participating in AEP?

Your family will have the opportunity to meet young people from around the country and develop new friendships as the students explore new places and perspectives—and have a ton of fun! This is a chance for anyone in your home to build new connections, broaden their perspectives, and learn more about what it means to be an American.

How else can I be involved in the local exchange?

If you are interested in joining the team of local Community Leaders in your town and organizing the exchange activities, please reach out to your local Exchange Manager or fill out the contact form on our website.

Who will lead the local AEP exchange?

In each participating high school, AEP works with an educator that is responsible for facilitating the local exchange. The student you host will be in contact with two Exchange Managers, one for their local exchange in your town, and one for their travel exchange.

Who can sign up for AEP?

Any high school senior in the US enrolled in a participating AEP school may sign up for an exchange.