FAQ 

 

 

 

The following FAQs address many of the common concerns for potential hosts, but if you're looking for more detailed answers to questions you have, don't hesitate to contact us, or download our Program Guide and Application forms here.

Q.1 When does the program start, and how long does it last?

The program can start at any time throughout the year, however the New Year or fall are the most common starting periods. Visits can last from just a few weeks to 12 months or more. The precise schedule will depend on the many factors, including the interests of the host and visitor but also visa regulations and local policies.

Q.2 What kind of visa does the presenter have and who is the sponsor?

Immigration rules and visa matters are very complex and the exact circumstances for any one visit will be determined by a number of factors. The host country, the Presenter’s nationality, the duration of the visit, the Presenter’s qualifications, age and experience and the Host circumstances are just some of the factors involved. Visa regulations can impose restrictions in certain cases, but IIP can inform interested parties of the options available in every case. Please do not hesitate to contact us for details pertinent to your circumstances.

Q3: How does IIP ensure suitable candidates for the program?

All candidates undergo a thorough screening process which assesses their educational and professional background, program motivation, personality, adaptability and English communicative ability. Our assessment criteria is based on over 30 years experience placing people in cross-cultural exchanges. We aim to make each placement a unique, tailored experience for both Presenter and Host, so our focus is very much on matching people for the greatest possible benefit all round. To this end, we encourage interested hosts share their ideas and discuss the possibilities in depth with IIP as no two placements will ever be exactly alike.

Q4: Where do presenters stay? What about expenses?

A key concept of the Program is facilitating a fully rounded cultural experience. The aim, therefore, is to have the Presenter stay with a family, or families, connected to the Host School community. The Presenter will pay a contribution to the Family to defray related expenses. Since the Presenter is a volunteer who largely self-funds the visit and makes a valuable contribution to the school, we ask hosts accept that the Presenter pay only a minimum fee to cover costs. In addition, the Host Family can also gain reward and enrichment through the home stay experience by having the Presenter involved in family life. If a suitable host family cannot be found, it may be possible to arrange alternative accommodation, such as a boarding house, school dormitory or similar. For more detailed information about homestay expenses and benefits, please refer to program documentation specific to your country (documents can be found here). Alternatively, please contact IIP with any questions you may have, or suggestions for accommodation arrangements.

Q5: What happens during the vacations?

What happens during vacations will depend on a number of factors and individual circumstances. In most cases, presenters will pursue their own activities at this time and will not require support from the school or host family at this time. In certain cases, visa regulations may require that cultural exchange activities are maintained throughout the visit. Although most schools will be closed for extended summer break, there are still ways in which the presenter can remain active in the community. To maximize the program's potential, we encourage all hosts and presenters to consider developing activities within the wider community. Please get in touch with us to discuss ideas and opportunities further.

Q6: What type of insurance does a presenter carry?

Presenters carry personal insurance for injury, sickness and liability including: death or disability due to injury, death due to illness, medical expenses due to injury, medical expenses due to illness, liability (personal and property), household goods & personal belongings, rescuer's expenses, and so on.

Q7: What documentation is required to host a presenter?

Documentation will vary according to circumstances, and in particular, the type of visa appropriate to these. However, as a first step, IIP ask interested hosts to complete a Host Application Form (Please ensure the form matches your country). Following this, once a suitable candidate has been introduced and accepted by a school, IIP will coordinate the necessary paperwork as appropriate. In the majority of cases, the Host will be asked to prepare Letters of Invitation, for which IIP will supply templates, as these are typically required by immigration authorities around the world. For more detailed information, please contact IIP to discuss the requirements relevant to your case.

You can find our application forms and program guides here.

To learn more please download our Program Guide for Hosts

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