How do you choose host families?
Every host family goes through federal background checks, a home visit, and an in-depth interview. We match families based on personality, lifestyle, and your child's specific needs — not just geography.
What if my child is unhappy or something goes wrong?
That's exactly why we stay involved. Local coordinators check in regularly, and we have a 24/7 emergency line. If there's a problem — with the school, the family, or adjusting — we work with everyone to resolve it. If a placement needs to change, we handle that too.
How will I stay informed about my child's progress?
You'll receive regular updates from coordinators, report cards when they're issued, and you always have a direct line to your child's support team. We proactively reach out — you won't have to chase us for information.
Is this safe? What are the compliance standards?
ICES is a U.S. Department of State-designated J-1 sponsor and has maintained a full CSIET listing for over 30 years. All placements follow federal SEVIS requirements. Host families are vetted, schools are compliant, and students are monitored throughout their stay.
Can you help if my child has learning differences?
Yes — it's one of our specialties. Christina has a background in special education and IEP advocacy. We match neurodivergent students with schools that genuinely support different learning styles, and we advocate for your child's accommodations throughout the year.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the program (J-1, F-1, summer, etc.) and what your child needs. We'll walk through all the options and costs on your discovery call so there are no surprises. The J-1 Exchange Program is the most affordable option.