The International Friends program brings together CSU international students and local community residents through Home-stay and Friendship programs.

Home-stay Program

Upon arrival in August or January, interested international students apply for a temporary home-stay and are matched with a community family or individual and invited to stay for 2-10 days as they wait for their permanent housing to become available. The home-stay agrees to provide a comfortable place to sleep, a simple breakfast and sometimes dinner. The student may need transportation to CSU as they start orientation. They may also need a trip to Target to buy bedding and kitchen supplies, and the home-stay agrees to help them move into their permanent housing. 

The majority are graduate students and there are far more men than women. Some of the students from the Middle East will not stay in a home that has a dog. They are wonderfully appreciative and this can be a very rewarding experience for all concerned.

To become a Home-stay host, please e-mail Jane Babcock at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with the following information:

• Your name
• All phone numbers
• Address
• Number of students you can host
• If you own any pets

Students, if you are looking for a home-stay, please fill out the Home-stay request form and e-mail it to Jenn Christ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Friendship Program

Community adults, both singles and families, are paired with foreign students and scholars according to mutual interests. This program provides the opportunity to make friends from all over the world. Hosts do not provide housing; instead, hosts provide hospitality that makes an international newcomer's stay in Fort Collins memorable.

Community friends are expected to include the international student in some family activities such as birthday parties, holidays and picnics and to provide a welcoming place for the student to feel at home. Through the friendships that develop, both hosts and students increase their awareness and appreciation of other cultures.

Please contact Jean Griswold at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more details.

Click here for the Community Member Application

Click here for the International Student and Scholar Application

Memories

Like to share your pictures? Please forward them to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with date and venue that the picture(s) was taken.