Why Chichester needs host families
The cathedral spire, the Roman walls and the Market Cross give Chichester's centre a distinctive character, while Chichester Harbour and the sands at West Wittering are close by. It is a city small enough to explore on foot, which students tend to appreciate.
The University of Chichester brings students from overseas, and the city sits on the coastal railway line linking Portsmouth, Worthing and Brighton. Families here can be a good fit for students who want a peaceful home while studying in the area.
Hosting from Chichester is often about offering a calm, welcoming household. Many hosts enjoy introducing students to local life, from the Festival Theatre to a walk around Bosham, and you stay in control of when you host. Schools contact you directly, so you can talk through each placement before saying yes.

Who you could host in Chichester
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 Chichester 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 Chichester 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 Chichester: common questions
Ready to host in Chichester?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.