Why Ipswich needs host families
The marina on the Ipswich Waterfront, Christchurch Mansion in its parkland and the historic streets of the town centre give students plenty to explore. The Suffolk coast and countryside are close by, and trains run directly to London.
The University of Suffolk is based on the waterfront, and Ipswich also works as a base for students studying elsewhere in East Anglia. A friendly family home can help them settle quickly into English life. Trains to Colchester, Norwich and Cambridge widen the options further.
Hosting suits many Ipswich households, from families with children to couples whose children have moved out. You decide when to host and which students to welcome, and the spare room is put to good use. Schools contact you directly, so you can find out about each student first.
Who you could host in Ipswich
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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich: common questions
Ready to host in Ipswich?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.