Why Bristol needs host families
From the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the harbourside and the SS Great Britain, Bristol gives students plenty to explore. It is a big city with a friendly, independent character, known for its music, street art and food, and it is well connected by rail to London, Bath and Wales.
With the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England both here, international students are a familiar part of city life. Many begin with an English course, and plenty of them want a family home to come back to at the end of the day.
Hosting is a way to show someone the Bristol you know: the parks, the neighbourhood cafes, the walks along the river. It can also make good use of a spare room, and you remain in control of when and who you host.
Who you could host in Bristol
You choose the ages, lengths of stay and dates that suit your household.
How it works
1. Register for free
Create your host profile in a few minutes. There are no fees or subscriptions.
2. Get found by schools
Language schools that place students in and around Bristol search for hosts by location, rooms and availability.
3. Welcome your student
A school contacts you directly to arrange a placement. You decide which students you accept.
Earn up to £7,500 a year tax-free
Under the government's Rent a Room scheme, income from hosting students in your Bristol home is tax-free up to £7,500 a year.
- Applies whether you own or rent (with your landlord's permission)
- Claim it with a single tick box on your tax return
General guidance only. Read more on GOV.UK
Hosting in Bristol: common questions
Ready to host in Bristol?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.