Most international students in public schools live in homestay with a screened host family, while boarding school students live in a supervised residence on campus.
- Homestay: The student lives with a local family, with a furnished private bedroom, a study area and three meals a day and snacks. It is the standard option in public school districts.
- Boarding residence: Private boarding schools house students on campus with residence staff, shared dining and structured evening routines. Fees combine tuition, room and meals.
- Living with family: A student may also live with a parent who comes to Canada, or with a relative or family friend approved by the school and able to act as custodian.
- Choosing between them: Homestay offers daily family life and language practice. Boarding offers a campus community and closely scheduled supervision. Cost and the student's independence usually decide.
Official sources: CAPS-I: Accommodation for international students · CAIS Boarding Schools: Tuition fees and financial assistance
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More questions on this topic
- How is homestay supervised, and how is my child's safety protected?
- How many meals a day does a homestay student receive?
- Can my child change host families if there is a problem?
- What is custodianship, and why is it required for younger students?
- Does the school or the agency provide custodianship support?
- Can a parent come to Canada and stay with the student?
- What are the curfew and sign-out rules for students living in a boarding residence?
- Can the host family be matched to my child's religious or dietary needs, such as halal or vegetarian?