IALC Housing Standards

Accommodation is a vital part of the study experience, and IALC member schools are committed to providing high-quality living arrangements. 

Common Accommodation Standards

Regardless of the type of accommodation, IALC requires all living arrangements provided by its member schools to adhere to the following essential standards:

Clean and well-maintained

rooms and shared spaces

Comfortable and functional

furnishings in good condition

Secure environment

with adequate safety measures

Access to Bathrooms

that are hygienic and in good repair

Proximity to school

ideally within 30 minutes by walking or public transport

Regular inspections

and feedback mechanisms to maintain quality

Clear house rules

and guidelines provided before arrival

Language practice and cultural immersion

in a welcoming, inclusive environment

Homestay Accommodation

Host families play a crucial role in cultural immersion. The following minimum requirements ensure a comfortable and supportive home environment:

  • The bedroom must be fully furnished with a bed, storage space, adequate lighting, a chair, and a desk (or access to a suitable study area).
  • The room should be well-lit with natural light, clean, and furnished in good condition.
  • The space must be for the student’s private use and not shared with family members.
  • Ideally, students should be the only native speaker of their language in the household (subject to school policies).
  • Schools should provide clear policies on the number of students per household.
  • If half-board is booked, meals should be balanced and varied, consisting of at least two courses (e.g., main dish with salad or dessert).
  • Common areas, kitchens, and bathrooms must be clean and well-maintained.
  • Bathrooms must be hygienic, and students should have access to at least one bath or shower per day.
  • Linen and towels must be provided and changed regularly.
  • Families should encourage conversation and interaction with students.
  • Heating must be available during colder seasons.
  • The daily commute should not exceed 30 minutes (or 1 hour in large cities) via walking or public transport.
  • Schools must personally know or appoint an accommodation agent to oversee host families
  • Homes must be inspected before placement and evaluated regularly through re-inspections or student feedback surveys.
  • Student preferences (e.g., nonsmoking, allergies, dietary needs) should be accommodated where feasible.
  • Family’s address, telephone number, and updated household member details.
  • Clear travel instructions, including a map where possible.
  • Distance and estimated travel time to school.
  • Emergency contact details.
  • Household rules and guidelines.
A room furnished with several chairs and tables arranged for seating and gatherings.

Residential & Other Accommodation Types

  • Accommodation must be consistently clean and well-maintained.
  • Rooms should be comfortable, well-lit, and furnished in good condition.
  • Toilets and bathrooms must be hygienic and free of mold or damage.
  • Regular cleaning must be provided unless students are responsible for shared space maintenance.
  • Residential accommodations must have clear fire safety regulations and security measures in place.
  • Guidelines and house rules should be clearly communicated to students.
  • Hotels must have a minimum two-star rating unless specified otherwise.

Options Overview

Accommodation TypeSocial ExperienceIndependenceMeal PlanStudy SpacePrice Range
Host FamilyHighLowIncludedPrivate/Shared$$
Student ResidenceMediumMediumOptionalPrivate/Shared$$$
HotelsLowHighNot IncludedPrivate$$$$

Final Tips Before Booking

Consider your priorities

Do you prefer 24 hours immersion in the study language, social interaction or more independence?

Check the commute

How far is the accommodation from your school, and what are the transport options?

Plan your budget

Factor in meal plans, kitchen facilities, and any additional costs.

Ask about rules

Some accommodations may have curfews, visitor restrictions, or cultural expectations to consider.

Testimonials

Learn Mandarin faster than you think possible

I have been attending Chinese classes at that school for three months so far, and I have already made tremendous progress to the point that I am now able to have small conversations with locals — which is crazy, because three months ago, I didn’t have any knowledge of the Mandarin language!

Maxence France That's Mandarin Beijing
A summer our students loved — and we’ll be back!

We really appreciate all the effort the Emerald team put in to make sure our students had such a great experience. We’re already looking forward to the next time!

Adela Czech Republic ECI Juniors – Rose Bruford College
Learn English at the edge of adventure — Cape Town awaits

It was an incredible experience with quality staff. The courses were varied, and the teachers were truly there for you! I had unforgettable encounters. Don’t hesitate to take a break from your life to live this experience!

Serena Belgium Good Hope Studies
A truly premium English learning experience — in the heart of London

More than a course, it was a true experience! From booking to the final day, everything was perfectly organised. Even during my one-week stay, I felt fully included and supported, just like the long-term students. The teacher was outstanding, the location beautiful, and the atmosphere warm and welcoming for learners of all ages. Plus, the food was excellent — compliments to the chefs! I highly recommend this school to anyone seeking a professional yet friendly learning environment.

Alessandra Italy The London School of English
The world’s friendliest English school — ILI

Everything about this school is special — every day was exciting and unique. I truly believe it’s the best English school in the world, and I already miss it so much! The teachers and directors are fantastic; they made me feel completely at home. Thank you, ILI, for everything. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

Thamires Brazil The International Language Institute of Massachusetts
A place that is worth a piece of your heart

I believe that what makes an experience unforgettable is that special moment when you realise that a new place feels like home, no matter how far you really are from it. This is simply what I have felt right here; like I’m in a large family, with a multicultural atmosphere. 

Riccardo Italy Southbourne School of English
English only. Success guaranteed — in Australia.

I studied the IELTS/EAP course at Impact Brisbane for almost four months. It was challenging at first, but the supportive teachers and their passion made all the difference. They gave me the motivation and guidance I needed to succeed — and together, we achieved a 7.5! I also met amazing people from around the world, united by one simple rule: “English Only.” Thank you, Impact, for being a big part of my Australian adventure!

Alan New Caledonia Impact English College Brisbane
Belfast: where English learning meets Irish warmth

I spent 13 weeks in Belfast and absolutely loved it. The city is beautiful, the locals incredibly welcoming, and the school made every day of learning enjoyable — even grammar! I arrived lacking confidence and left feeling happy and fluent, thanks to supportive teachers and a friendly school atmosphere. I made lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Lisa Switzerland International House Belfast
Small classes, big progress — in Seoul

Friendly staff and teachers. Small classes so the teacher can focus better on the students’ needs. Also, a lot of extra school activities that give the opportunity to socialize with other students and dive deeper into the Korean culture.

Silvia Italy LTL Language School Seoul

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