It's true that you can’t survive alone in the UK when you arrive there for study. You need to have a good relationship with the host family to make your study abroad journey easier and more comfortable.
You need to do these 3 things to get along with the host family: set clear expectations, communicate proactively, and build strong ties with the homestay host by spending quality time with them.
For a better two-way cultural exchange, there are some practical tips you can follow.
How to Get Along With a Host Family? Helpful Tips for Students in the UK
When you're living with a host family in London, those first few weeks can feel a bit overwhelming. Still, you can turn your host family into your home away from home.
Let's talk about some practical ways to make the most of your homestay.
1. Be Respectful
Start by observing how things work around the house. Does everyone take their shoes off at the door? Is there a quiet time in the evening? Are certain areas off-limits? Pay attention to these little details.
Respect their privacy just as you'd want them to respect yours. Knock before entering rooms and ask permission before using things that aren't yours. Another important point to remember is punctuality. If dinner is at 7:00 pm, try your best to be on time.
2. Communicate Clearly
So many misunderstandings happen simply because people don't speak up. If you're unsure about something, ask. If something's bothering you, say it kindly. If you are allergic to something or feeling homesick, speak up and communicate proactively.
If the Wi-Fi password isn't working or you're not sure about the washing machine, just ask. Most host families genuinely want to help, but they need to know what's going on.
3. Be Friendly and Social
Being friendly does not mean hanging out with everyone or anyone. But making an effort to be warm and approachable makes a difference. Smile, say good morning, ask how they're doing. These small gestures create a positive atmosphere.
If your host family in the UK invites you to join them for a meal, a movie night, or a weekend outing, try to say yes when you can. These moments are golden opportunities to bond, learn about British culture, and practice your English in a relaxed setting.
4. Be Adaptable
Living with a UK host family might mean adjusting to things that feel strange at first. Maybe they eat dinner earlier than you're used to. Maybe they're more reserved than families back home. Try your best to adjust as much as you can.
Don’t feel that you have to change your entire persona to fit the mould of a foreign land. You are just learning to sail through a different way of life. That said, if something genuinely doesn't work for you or makes you uncomfortable, it's okay to have a respectful conversation about it.
5. Help with the House Chores
Helping with the daily household chores gradually builds respect. It is the nicest way to say thank you and show appreciation without any grand gestures.
Volunteer to set the table, clear the dishes after dinner, or help with the grocery shopping. Keep your room tidy or offer to walk the dog. These small acts show that you are a responsible person.
Also, doing chores together gives you an opportunity to build a relationship with the host family. They will get a chance to know about you, and you will understand their side as well. Some of the best conversations happen while washing dishes or folding laundry together.
Quick Tips to Adjust to a Host Family Environment
Here are practical, actionable tips for building a great relationship with your London host family from the very first day.
Ask for a Tour & Instructions
On day one, ask to be shown how things work (appliances, heating, locks, Wi-Fi password, recycling system).
Keep Your Food in the Cabinets Provided
Ask which cabinet/fridge area is for you and keep your food items there.
Text for Logistics
Use brief, polite texts for practical updates.
Chat Over Tea
Accept invitations for a cup of tea.
Give a Small Thank-You Gift
A food item or craft from your home country when you arrive is a warm gesture.
Be Sound-Aware
Use headphones for media, especially at night. Be quiet when returning late.
Choose the Right Student Homestay in London
All of these tips work best when you've been matched with a host family that's genuinely a good fit for you. That’s why Host Family Stay has a strict evaluation process to vet the host families and connect you with the most credible ones.
All of our homestays in London have utilities like Wi-Fi, study spaces, and dedicated meal plans so you can spend a comfortable time in the UK.