Student Frequently Asked Questions

What is the International Friendship Program?
The Virginia Tech International Friendship Program pairs community residents (families, couples, or individuals) of all ages with undergraduate and graduate international students and scholars. Friendships formed by sharing time together about once a month enrich local residents' lives and expand students' and scholars' educational experiences. Students and scholars discover more personal aspects of American culture, and community members gain intercultural understanding. This program offers a wonderful way to make connections in the local community.

Why should I apply?
Having a host with the International Friendship Program can ease your transition into life in Blacksburg and can provide opportunities for you to learn about the culture in nonacademic ways. You can also share your culture with people who are interested in learning about it.

Will I live with my host?
The International Friendship Program is a friendship program for intercultural exchange through shared activities, not a homestay program. Students in the program have their own housing. You will not live with your hosts.

What will my community host and I do together?
The International Friendship Program is a friendship program for intercultural exchange through shared activities, not a homestay program. Students in the program have their own housing. You will not live with your hosts.

How much time will I be expected to spend?
Most hosts and students get together approximately once per month. The amount of time participants spend together varies. Many participants get together throughout the year. Others spend more time together during Virginia Tech vacations and breaks.

Who are hosts?
Hosts are members of the local community who are interested in meeting international students. Some are Virginia Tech faculty or staff. Single people, couples, single parents, and other families of all sizes are hosts in the program.

Are all hosts American?
Most hosts are American citizens. But, some of our hosts have come to Blacksburg from other countries and are excited to help welcome international students to the area.

Will I stay with my host during vacations?
Students go home, travel, or stay in their own on- or off-campus accommodations during vacations. Hosts may invite you to spend all or part of a holiday with them, but this isn’t an expectation or requirement of the program.

What if a match doesn’t work?
We try to make matches that satisfy both the host and the student. If a match doesn’t work, we ask the student or the host to contact the Cranwell International Center so that a new connection may be made.

Where do I sign up?
Student applications are available online. For more information, contact the Cranwell International Center.