FAQ: What is a Double Placement?

“The double placement was definitely the right way to go for us. Since we don’t have any kids of our own, it was like creating an instant family, complete with siblings! Plus, the students leaned on each other at school and had a buddy in the house on the rare occasion that we both worked late. It was a blast.” – Host mom Vicki from Michigan

Q: What IS a “double placement?”

Just what it sounds like: hosting two students at the same time!

Q: How can I tell if a double placement might be right for my family?

Anybody can host a double placement! We’ve found that many host families choose a double placement for one of the following reasons:

  • Single adults or couples without children enjoy the “instant family” dynamic
  • Empty-nesters enjoy filling their homes with children again
  • Hosts with two children (example: 1 boy and 1 girl) enjoy “doubling” their family by allowing each child to choose 1 host sibling
  • Families with large homes love putting the space to good use!

Q: Are there any special requirements for double placements?

The students must come from countries that do not share the same native language. (Example: You may host a student from Germany and a student from Spain, but you may NOT host a student from Germany and a student from Switzerland, since both students speak German.)

Q: If I host two students, does each student need his/her own bedroom?

NO. Students may share a bedroom, but they do need to have their own bed.

Q: What are some advantages of hosting a double placement?

Our host families who choose double placements have shared many advantages with us! Here are just a few:

  • Students have a host sibling even when there are no other children in the host family
  • Students can keep one another entertained after school or during hours when the host parents are unavailable
  • Students can “lock arms” and tackle the new school experience together

Q: Won’t it be more difficult to have two students in the home instead of just one?

While it’s true that a double placement will come with 2 sets of plans and priorities, most families find that the benefits outweigh the added logistical concerns. Students often learn to share rides and work together when coordinating activities.

Q: I think I’d like to host a double placement, but I’m not sure it’s right for me. Who can help me figure this out?

Drop a question in the comments below! We’ll help you sort it out so you can decide what’s best for you.

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