Host Family Placement
Lower Columbia College does not provide dormitory or private housing for students. However, the the International Admissions Coordinator will help you with host family placement and housing location assistance for a fee. Some families in our area will provide international students with room and board for a monthly fee. The non-refundable application fee for host family placement is $200 and must be submitted with the Host Family Placement Request Form.
Why Live with a Host Family?
For many students, a host family is a comfortable way to begin life in an unfamiliar culture. Host families introduce you to daily life in the United States. You may practice your English skills with your host family, living in a clean, safe, pleasant family environment. Host families provide a private room and food for three meals each day (cooking arrangements may vary).
NOTE: Smokers may have trouble finding a host family, as most American families do not allow smoking in their homes.
If you choose to stay with a host family, it is your responsibility to:
- Submit a Host Family Request Form and pay a $200 U.S. placement fee (non-refundable, unless no placement is found)
- Pay the host family $350 - $450 each month
- Pay for your own bills (phone, cable TV, etc.)
- Participate in the family's daily home life
- Communicate your basic needs directly to the host family
- Respect the host home by keeping the areas you use clean and orderly
- Understand the host family rules and expectations and agree to respect them
- As a member of the family, assist the family with a few small chores
- Don't abuse alcohol or drugs
- Notify the host family at least two weeks in advance before moving out
- Contact the International Admissions Coordinator about problems or misunderstandings
Rental Housing
Some apartments are located just a few blocks from the college and several local real estate agencies can recommend housing. You can generally find studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments to rent for around $350 to $550 per month.
Local Newspapers that advertise Rental Housing
Local Real Estate Agencies
* Real Estate companies that also rent
Student Responsibilities
- You will need to arrange for an apartment after you arrive in the U. S., so be prepared to spend several nights in a motel until you find permanent housing
- Expect to pay a security deposit equal to one month's rent.
- Rent may or may not include the cost of utilities (water, electricity and garbage service)
- The International Admissions Coordinator charges a non-refundable fee of $100 for assistance in locating local housing