Why Cheltenham needs host families
Tree-lined avenues, Regency terraces and the Promenade give Cheltenham a graceful feel, and the town is famous for its festivals of music, literature, science and jazz, as well as the racing at Cheltenham Racecourse. The Cotswold hills rise just beyond the town.
Students come to Cheltenham because it is safe, attractive and easy to get around, with good rail links to Birmingham, Bristol and London. The University of Gloucestershire adds to the town's student life, and many learners want a family to live with while they are here.
For many local families, hosting becomes part of the rhythm of the year. Some take a student every summer, others prefer the occasional longer stay, and the money from a spare room can be tax-free under the Rent a Room scheme.
Who you could host in Cheltenham
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 Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham: common questions
Ready to host in Cheltenham?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.