Should I live close to the University of Hertfordshire to host?

It helps for students studying there, but Hatfield is compact and well served by buses, so homes across the town and in Welwyn Garden City can work.

Is there a fee to register as a Hatfield host family?

No. Registration is free, and there are no subscription or placement fees.

When do university students usually arrive?

Many arrive ahead of the autumn term, and some courses also start in the new year. Schools and colleges get in touch with hosts when they need placements.

What do students do in Hatfield?

They can explore Hatfield House and its park, enjoy campus life, and reach London or St Albans easily for a day out.

Become a Host Family in Hatfield

Why Hatfield needs host families

Old Hatfield's historic streets and the grounds of Hatfield House sit alongside a modern town and a large university campus. Students find a mix of history, green space and student life, with London King's Cross reachable by direct train.

The University of Hertfordshire draws international students throughout the academic year, and some prefer a family home to halls, at least while they adjust. Families in Hatfield and nearby Welwyn Garden City are well placed to offer that.

Hosting means a spare room is put to good use and your household gains a new connection abroad. University students in particular often appreciate having someone local to ask about banks, buses and British customs during their first few weeks. You choose when you host and which students you welcome, and schools and colleges contact you directly when they need a family.

Host family sharing a meal with an international student in Hatfield

Who you could host in Hatfield

You choose the ages, lengths of stay and dates that suit your household.

Foundation and pre-sessional students

Students preparing for degree study often look for a family home where they can practise English every day before and during their course.

International undergraduates

Some students on full degree courses prefer homestay to halls for part of their studies, staying for a term or longer.

Short summer courses

Summer brings shorter stays from students on courses across Hertfordshire. Schools explain any requirements for younger students.

Where you could host

Schools look for homes within easy reach of their classes. These are some of the areas in and around Hatfield.

Hatfield town centre

Old Hatfield

South Hatfield

Welwyn Garden City

Welham Green

Brookmans Park

Colney Heath

Smallford

Welwyn

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 Hatfield 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 Hatfield 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 Hatfield: common questions

Ready to host in Hatfield?

Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.

Host families are also needed near Hatfield