Why Cambridge needs host families
Punts on the River Cam, the college courts and King's College Chapel make Cambridge instantly recognisable. Students cycle everywhere, browse the market square and visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, and London is under an hour away by train. Green spaces such as Jesus Green, Parker's Piece and the Backs are favourite places to relax.
Alongside the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University, the city has a long history of English language teaching. Students come to study in an inspiring academic setting, and many choose to live with local families. Homes in the city and its well-connected villages are both useful to schools.
Hosting in Cambridge lets you share a famous city from the inside. Helping a student find their way, practise their English and feel at home is rewarding, and you remain free to decide when to host. Many hosts say the conversations at dinner become the highlight of their week.
Who you could host in Cambridge
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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge: common questions
Ready to host in Cambridge?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.