International student program brings cultural and economic benefits to Los Angeles Communities

October 30, Los Angeles, CA – This past week, Ocean View High School in Huntington Beach, El Camino Real Charter High School in Woodland Hills, and Oak Park High School in Oak Park welcomed a unique group of visitors: international education agents from Vietnam, Italy, China, Brazil, Thailand, Germany, and Taiwan. Rather than sightseeing in Los Angeles, these global agents were here with Educatius, an organization with 21 years of experience placing qualified international students in American high schools and host families.

These agents, who work closely with international students preparing to study abroad, had the opportunity to experience American high school life firsthand, connecting with students, teachers, and host families in the Los Angeles area. This visit deepened their understanding of the academic and cultural experiences available in Los Angeles and strengthened connections with schools eager to welcome students from around the world.

Each year, hundreds of high schools across the U.S. open their doors to international students through Educatius’ programs. In the Los Angeles area alone, Educatius partners with 15 public school districts, private and boarding schools. Students arrive on an F-1 student visa and live with local families, enriching the community by sharing their cultures and forming lasting connections. Families host for many reasons—some to introduce their children to diverse perspectives, others to add a meaningful connection to their lives. According to the Survey Center on American Life, 49% of American families place a high value on cultural exposure, making hosting an international student an enriching experience for everyone involved. Host families also receive a monthly stipend.

The Lasting Impact on Students and Schools

The benefits of hosting international students extend well beyond cultural exchange. Educatius' F-1 students contribute financially to their schools, as each student’s tuition directly supports programs, resources, and extracurriculars, often helping to boost budgets for public schools. This financial support enhances resources for all students and fosters an inclusive, diverse environment.

For international students, the experience is transformative. Beyond advancing their language skills, they gain academic achievements, an authentic understanding of American culture, and lifelong relationships with their host families. Many alumni describe their hosts as a “second family,” staying in touch long after the program ends and often visiting each other’s home countries years later.

Educatius’ Role in Global Connections

This recent tour of Los Angeles area high schools highlights Educatius’ dedication to building global connections across cultures, creating networks of support that benefit students and communities alike. During the visit, agents experienced firsthand the unique aspects of each school that attract students from around the world, further cementing Los Angeles as an attractive destination for international education.

With global demand for American high school programs on the rise, Educatius is uniquely positioned to guide exchange students from over 60 countries, connecting them with the right schools to meet their academic goals, welcoming host families, and ongoing support throughout their exchange experience.

For Los Angeles families interested in hosting, the rewards go beyond a cultural experience. By welcoming an international student, they enrich their community, foster global understanding, and create connections that span continents.

For more information on hosting an international student, please visit Host an International Student in the USA | Educatius.