Open Your Home, Open Your World: Become A Host Family!

Hosting provides a unique opportunity to share American culture while learning about another part of the world firsthand.

Imagine enriching your life through daily interactions with a young person from a different background. You'll create a supportive home environment that fosters their academic success and cultural immersion while building a lifelong bond in the process.

Ready to make a difference?
We encourage you to take the first step by completing our online application to begin the approval process. Become a host family today and embark on a rewarding journey of cross-cultural exchange!
Want to Learn More? Hear from one of our host families!

Homestay Program FAQs

  • Who can host?
Anyone! Families, couples, and single parents can host. The best host families, regardless of family makeup, are open-minded, fun-loving, responsible, and caring.

  • What is required
Families must provide a bedroom with a non-convertible nor inflatable bed, adequate storage, a study place, three meals a day, and transportation.

  • Who pays for what?
The host family is responsible for providing food, transportation, and shelter. While not required, host families may choose to pay for activities and family outings.

  • What if I have a vacation planned?
You have options! You can take your student with you or arrange for lodging with a pre-approved household. If needed, Lake Ridge Academy is happy to assist!

  • What about after extracurriculars and sports?
International students are permitted to participate in all school-sponsored activities, including sports. Athletes are required to have a physical in Ohio.


Become a Lake Ridge Academy Homestay Family and embark on an incredible journey of cultural exchange. Welcome a curious and eager student from another country into your life, and share the joy of learning about different cultures while enriching their American experience.

List of 5 items.

  • Apply & Get Approved

    Start your adventure by completing our online application. We'll also conduct a background check.
  • Meet & Greet

    A member of our homestay team will schedule a home visit to meet your family and endure your home is a good fit for the student. We'll also hold a family orientation to answer any questions and provide helpful tips.
  • Connect

    Get to know your student before they arrive! We'll facilitate communication so you can start building a connection and share pre-arrival excitement.
  • Arrival Day

    The big day! We'll provide information and support to ensure a smooth airport pick-up so you can welcome your student to their new home away from home.
  • Start Making Memories!

    Now the real adventure begins! Embrace cultural exchange, create lasting memories, and embark on a rewarding journey together.

Apply to be a host family today!

Lake Ridge Academy is the only independent college preparatory school on Cleveland's west side. Our co-educational curriculum offers a unique blend of academics, extracurricular activities, and a focus on character development, all on our beautiful 93-acre campus. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, our devoted faculty provides personalized attention to help every student thrive.