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

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
Learn English in Valletta — Europe’s sunniest classroom

Easy School doesn’t just teach English — it offers a life-changing experience. The teachers are excellent and use modern methods that make every class fun and engaging. Each lesson is a chance to truly connect with the language and culture. It’s a safe, welcoming place where students are free to express themselves, try new things, and overcome barriers in learning English.

Agnaldo Mozambique Easy School of Languages
Where Spanish learning feels like vacation

The school is amazing. I enjoyed all the classes a lot and learned so much! They were both educational and fun—just the sort of vacation I wanted. Thank you so much to all of you!

Marcin Poland Expanish Málaga
Discover London. Meet the world.

I totally recommend doing this experience if you ever have the chance because it has been amazing to discover London and to meet some awesome people.

Ivet Spain English Study Camps by WSE – Wimbledon
Study German in Munich 

I had a 6-month course. The school, teachers and all the office staff were super friendly and professional. The classes are held small and teaching was fun and super instructive. Thanks a lot BWS!

Sabine Taiwan BWS Germanlingua Munich
Master Japanese with expert teachers 

What attracted me to KAI was its excellent reputation — outstanding teachers, a custom-designed curriculum, and a holistic approach to language learning.

Alex Switzerland KAI Japanese Language School
Experience Japanese hospitality — study in Fukuoka

The school made me feel like a special person, not just another student. I stayed with a host family who were incredibly kind and showed me around the city — we’re still in touch today!

Mary Germany Genki Japanese and Culture School Fukuoka
Exceptional French learning and accommodation in the heart of Montpellier

The experience I had with the ILA institut was incredible. The school is well located, very organized and the professors are very well prepared and kind. The homestay was fantastic. I recommend this school for everyone who wants to learn French.

Giulia Italy Institute Linguistique Adenet
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

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