By on March 13th, 2026
Your First Week in a US Homestay: What International Students Should Expect
You worked hard to get here.
The visa. The tests. The applications. The goodbyes.
And now you are finally on your way to the United States, or maybe you just arrived. You have two suitcases, a new school ahead of you, and the address of your host family.
Many international students wonder the same thing before arriving:
“What will my first week in a US homestay be like?”
Starting life in a new country always comes with adjustments. During your first week, you will meet your host family, learn the routines of the home, explore your neighborhood, and begin speaking English more often in daily life.
Host families who work with Universal Student Housing have experience welcoming international students and understand that the first days are a big transition. They are familiar with helping students settle in and adjust to their new environment.
This guide will walk you through what many students experience during their first week living in a homestay in the United States.
Before You Arrive: Preparing for Your Homestay in the USA
Before leaving your home country, it helps to prepare a few important things so your arrival goes smoothly.
Important documents
Keep these in your carry-on bag rather than inside your suitcase.
- Passport and F-1 visa
- Your host family’s full address and phone number written on paper
- Your USH student coordinator’s phone number
- Emergency contacts from home and from your school
- A printed copy of your school enrollment or schedule
Things that may help during the first days
- Toiletries such as shampoo, soap, and toothbrush
- A plug adapter for US outlets (Type A and Type B)
- A small item that reminds you of home, such as a photo or small gift
A helpful tip is to write your host family’s address on a small card and keep it in your wallet. If you ever need help finding your way home, you can easily show the address.
Day 1: Arriving at Your Host Family’s Home
Arriving at your host family’s home is one of the most memorable moments of your study experience in the United States.
When you arrive, your host family will welcome you and help you get settled into the home. Many host families in the USH network have hosted international students before and understand how to help students during their first days.
What usually happens on the first day
- Your host family may show you around the house, including your room, the bathroom, and common areas.
- They will usually explain important things like house routines, laundry, and meals.
- You can ask for the Wi-Fi password so you can message your family and let them know you arrived.
- You will likely feel tired from travel and time zone changes, so resting early is normal.
You do not need to worry about having long conversations on the first day. A simple greeting, a few questions, and some time to rest is perfectly fine.
Days 2–7: Adjusting to Daily Life in a Homestay
The first week is mostly about learning how daily life works in your new home. Every family has its own routine, so observing and asking questions will help you adjust faster.
Mealtimes
Some host families eat dinner together every evening, while others may have different schedules. It is helpful to ask what their usual routine is. If you have food preferences, allergies, or dietary restrictions, let your host family know early.
Sharing the bathroom
If the bathroom is shared with other members of the household, it helps to ask about the usual morning routine so everyone can coordinate schedules.
Your room
Your room is your personal space during your stay. Keeping it tidy and organized shows respect for the home. If something is not working properly or if you need something, let your host family know.
Learning Your Neighborhood
During your first week, take some time to become familiar with the area around your homestay.
- Locating the nearest bus stop or train station
- Finding a nearby grocery store or pharmacy
- Taking a short walk around the neighborhood
- Asking your host family about parks, coffee shops, or places they recommend
Getting to School from Your Homestay
Depending on the city, students may use buses, trains, or light rail. Your host family or your USH coordinator can help explain transportation options and the best route to your school. Understanding your commute early helps make the first week of classes easier.
Practicing English with Your Host Family
One of the biggest advantages of living in a homestay is practicing English naturally in everyday situations. Many students feel nervous about speaking English at first — this is completely normal.
Remember that the goal is not to speak perfectly. The goal is to practice and communicate. Simple conversations at the dinner table, asking questions about the neighborhood, or talking about your day all help build confidence.
A good challenge for the first week: share one thing about your day each evening in English, even if it is just one sentence.
Homesickness During Your First Weeks in the USA
Feeling homesick during the first weeks in a new country is very common. You may miss your family, familiar food, or speaking your native language. These feelings are part of adjusting and usually improve as you become more comfortable.
- Schedule regular calls with your family back home
- Go for a walk or explore your neighborhood
- Stay busy with classes and activities
- Talk with your host family about how you are feeling
- Reach out to your USH coordinator if you need support
Common Questions About Homestays in the United States
Can I cook my own food?
Many host families allow students to use the kitchen occasionally, but it is always best to ask first so you understand the household preferences.
What if I do not understand something my host family says?
You can politely ask them to repeat or explain again. This is a normal part of learning a new language.
Can friends visit my homestay?
Each host family may have different guidelines regarding visitors. It is always respectful to ask before inviting friends.
What if I have concerns about my homestay?
If questions or concerns arise during your stay, you can contact your USH student coordinator. The USH team is available to help address concerns and support students during their program.
Why Many International Students Choose Homestay
- Practice English in everyday conversations
- Learn about American culture and daily life
- Receive guidance from people familiar with the local area
- Experience a home environment while studying abroad
For many students, these daily interactions become one of the most memorable parts of their time in the United States.
Your First Week Is Just the Beginning
Thousands of international students arrive in the United States every year with the same mix of excitement and uncertainty. During the first week you will learn new routines, explore a new environment, and begin building connections.
Take things one day at a time. Ask questions, stay curious, and give yourself time to adjust.
Your homestay experience is the beginning of a new chapter.
Find Your Host Family in the United States
Universal Student Housing has helped international students find experienced host families for more than 25 years. If you are planning to study in the United States and would like to live with a host family, you can apply through our network of homestay hosts.
Apply for homestay with Universal Student Housing and begin your journey with confidence.