Become a host family and enjoy a unique multicultural experience

Student host family : change a life through cultural exchange

As part of its mission to support students settling in Lyon, UCLy’s Housing Service offers accommodation options tailored to the diverse needs of students. Whether for French or international students, the goal is to provide a peaceful living environment that fosters academic success and personal well-being.

One of the standout options available is homestay, which offers students a unique opportunity for cultural immersion within a French household. This program not only helps students feel at home in a new country, but also eases their transition during the crucial first months in France.

Each year, dedicated and welcoming families open their doors to international students, providing not just accommodation but also a warm, supportive environment and often forming lasting friendships.

Every year, committed and caring families open their doors to these students, providing them with a welcoming environment, landmarks and often lasting bonds.

One exemplary host is Mrs. Soulage, who has been hosting UCLy students since 2015, generously sharing her home and experiences with young people from all over the world.

« I'm like a temporary ‘mom’ to them! We share meals, discover new recipes together, and I introduce them to French cuisine. I love giving suggestions on places to visit, talking about my travels, and helping them feel at home." »

Based in Tassin-la-Demi-Lune, in a large apartment overlooking Lyon at 4 kilometers, Mme Soulage has already welcomed students from Japan, Colombia, the United States and Germany.

What motivated her?

A childhood memory of her own parents hosting summer students: a taste for exchange and interculturality. She perpetuates this cohabitation today.

The UCLy housing department is looking for new host families. Whether you live in the city center or in the suburbs, whether you're available year-round or just occasionally, your hospitality can make all the difference in the life of an international student.

Would you like to share your daily life? Join our network of host families !

📩 For more information or to suggest accommodation: logement@univ-catholyon.fr

Full interview with Mme Soulage, host family for UCLy

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

I live in Tassin-la-Demi-Lune, near Lyon, in a large and bright apartment with a balcony overlooking The "Monts du Lyonnais". It is a pleasant and welcoming environment for the students I host.

I am the mother of three grown-up children and currently work part-time. This availability allows me to provide attentive support and a warm, caring home for the students I welcome as part of UCLy’s host family programme.

How long have you been a host family?

I've been a host family for UCLy since 2015, when I welcomed my very first student who came from Mexico. It was an unforgettable experience: her mother even made the trip to Lyon to meet me. That moment of exchange helped establish a strong bond of trust. For a young student travelling abroad for the first time, knowing she was being welcomed into a caring family was very reassuring, both for her and for her parents.

What motivated you to become a host family?

Becoming a host family for UCLy was a natural step for me, inspired by my own personal experience. When I was in high school and later at university, my parents welcomed foreign students into our home every summer.

Those encounters deeply marked my childhood and left my brothers and me with many fond memories. Some of the relationships we formed back then have lasted over time.

So when I discovered that UCLy offered homestays for international students, I was immediately drawn to the idea. Long stays — from four to eight months — allow us to build genuine relationships and truly get to know one another. The summer programme, although different, is also a wonderful opportunity for intercultural exchange.

What would you say to a family still hesitating to take the plunge?

Hosting a student in your home is a deeply enriching human experience, especially for those who enjoy cultural exchange, sharing everyday life, and spending time together over family meals.

UCLy also provides excellent support throughout the entire process, which makes the experience both reassuring and well-structured. Becoming a host family is very simple, and you are never left on your own — the Housing Service is always available if needed.

As long as I have space in my home, I will continue to welcome students in Lyon, because every encounter brings something truly precious.