How to join International Friends?

For Hosts

  • Read and review the IF Guidelines.
  • Click on the “Host Application” button.
  • Fill out and submit the application online.
  • Your references will be checked, so please provide current and complete information.
  • Upon approval, you will be added to our database and then be given access to our list of students available for matching.

For Students

  • Read and review the IF Guidelines.

  • Click on the “Student Application” button application.

  • Complete and submit the application, answering every question. The more information you can provide about yourself, the easier it is to match you with a host having similar interests.

  • You will be matched with a community host as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who belongs to International Friends?
  • STUDENTS - Any international student enrolled at the University of Arizona may choose to participate.
  • HOSTS - Anyone in the Southern Arizona area who is interested in international friendship and is willing to exchange customs and ideas with an international student can apply. All applicants must provide current references.
Why do students participate?
  • To become better acquainted with Americans on a personal basis
  • To learn about the many cultures and ways of life in Tucson and Southern Arizona
  • To share their own cultures and customs
  • To participate in the life of the Tucson community
Why do Hosts participate?
  • To become better acquainted with international students on a personal basis
  • To learn about others’ cultures and ways of life
  • To share their own cultures and customs
  • To participate in the lives of international students in Tucson
WHO COORDINATES ACTIVITIES AND HOW DO I LEARN ABOUT THEM?

International Friends is governed by a volunteer board of directors composed of past and present hosts, graduate and undergraduate international students, and a representative from International Student Services. The Board organizes and coordinates International Friends activities.

Information about group activities and other items of interest are communicated through International Friends emails and website.

WHAT IS REQUIRED OF An international friends HOST?
  • Complete application and be approved as a host
  • Contact student within one week of being matched
  • Continue monthly contact the first year the student is here. Plan to have a meal together, participate in community events, go sightseeing, attend International Friends activities, or just share coffee and conversation
  • Follow the International Friends Guidelines for hosts
WHAT IS REQUIRED OF An international friends STUDENT?
  • Complete application for matching with hosts
  • Communicate with your host within one week of matching assignment
  • Invite your host to get together with you and your friends, or just invite them for coffee
  • Share information about your country, family, and traditions
  • Follow the International Friends Guidelines for students
IS THERE A COST TO BECOME A MEMBER?

There is no fee associated with International Friends. We are a 501(c)(3) organization, and donations in support are always welcome.

Is it possible to host more than one student?

Yes! Many International Friends hosts request being matched with two or three students, and some even host more.

LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS ARE FORMED-image

LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS ARE FORMED

International students describe International Friends as an invaluable asset for learning about American life outside the academic environment. Southern Arizonans who have hosted students have expressed tremendous gratitude for the pleasure these relationships bring, and the goodwill generated affects both students and hosts for the rest of their lives.

HOW HOSTING WORKS-image

HOW HOSTING WORKS

Students and hosts are matched for one academic year. Although the relationships may continue well beyond this time period, we hope hosts will make themselves available for matching with other first-year students in upcoming years.

Any student inquiries regarding the following should be referred to the University of Arizona’s International Student Services office at 520-621-4627:

  • Employment instructions
  • Immigration and visa issues
  • Academic problems with professors, advisors and administrators
  • Financial problems
  • Major medical problems
Learn More