Why Manchester needs host families
Students come to Manchester for its universities, its music and football, and the energy of neighbourhoods like the Northern Quarter and Ancoats. The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University sit along Oxford Road, and English language courses run in the city throughout the year.
Many students would rather live with a family than in a residence, especially when they first arrive. A host home gives them somewhere settled to practise English, ask questions and learn how the city works, from the Metrolink trams to the buses along the Wilmslow Road corridor.
For the family, hosting brings new conversations around the dinner table and a link with someone from another culture. You decide when your room is free and which students you welcome, and the extra income can be tax-free under the Rent a Room scheme.
Who you could host in Manchester
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 Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester: common questions
Ready to host in Manchester?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.