Housing Information

Homestay Program

Whatcom Community College's Homestay Program offers the opportunity for a unique cultural experience by placing students with local families in Bellingham and surrounding areas. Living with a host family allows students a chance to learn about American culture by participating in the homestay's daily activities.

Homestay hosts come from various ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic levels, religions and lifestyles. Students who wish to be a part of the Homestay Program must be open minded to experiencing the cultural diversity of the U.S. and our local area. For details on Homestay expectations click here.

 To download the international student homestay application, please click here.

For a fillable form click here.

 Homestay Hosts Can Include:

• Married and unmarried couples, with or without children
• Single hosts, with or without children
• Homes with extended family members
• Native and non-native English speaking families
• Homes with and without pets

Homestay Placements:

Students are matched with homestay hosts based on information provided in the student's homestay application and letter to the homestay host.

Please note:

• It is important for students to include as much information as possible in the homestay application so that a "best-fit" placement can be made.
• Homestay placements will not be made until all forms have been received.
• Homestay placements are sent out 10 days before the suggested student arrival date. 

Homestay Terms:

The monthly homestay fee is $500, and is paid directly to the homestay host. All homestays include:

• A safe, clean and welcoming living environment.
• A private bedroom with access to a quiet study space, kitchen and laundry facilities.
• Regular interaction with homestay hosts that provide opportunities to practice English
• Daily meals (food available for the student to make a breakfast and lunch, with an evening meal provided by the host).
• Live on or near a WTA bus stop, as all international students need to travel to the college on their own. Occasionally, students may need help with transportation for school related activities.

Off Campus Housing

Apartments:

Although most students choose to stay in a homestay when they first arrive at WCC, there are many apartments located within walking distance from the college. Because renting an apartment can be a difficult process, The International Student Housing Coordinator can provide advice on how to find and rent an apartment. The average rental costs for apartments near WCC can range in price from $500 per month for a studio apartment, to $980 for a three-bedroom apartment. Generally, apartments are not furnished and students are required to buy all household necessities (bed, kitchen/cooking items, table and chairs, etc.).

Dormitories at Western Washington University:

WCC students are able to live in the dormitories at Western Washington University on a "space available" basis. Generally, space is available during the winter, spring, and summer quarters. For specific information about costs and applying to live in WWU housing, please contact the International Student Housing Coordinator.

For more information on international student housing, please contact:

Lynnette Berry, International Student Housing Coordinator
Phone: (360) 383-3242 | Fax: (360) 383-3241
lberry@whatcom.ctc.edu
International Programs Office
Syre Student Center 201