Programme Details

Introduction

The Lingnan Host Family Scheme was launched in 2008 to provide care and support for non-local undergraduate students. Staff members are invited to volunteer as host families, helping students adjust to university life and enrich their learning experiences. By participating in the scheme, students can develop a stronger sense of belonging towards the University, gain a deeper understanding of local culture, and integrate more fully into campus life and Hong Kong. For staff members, volunteering as a host family provides a fulfilling and mutually rewarding experience, fostering cross-cultural understanding and creating lasting memories with their hostees.

Objectives

To facilitate non-local students in adjusting smoothly to life in Hong Kong.
To enable them to gain a deeper understanding of local culture and customs, enriching their learning experiences in Hong Kong.
To provide support and care to students while they are away from home.
To create a meaningful cultural exchange opportunity for Lingnan staff, fostering mutual understanding and friendship.

Details of the Scheme

Eligibility	All full-time Lingnan staff or hostel staff members are welcome to participate in the scheme to be host families
Role of Host Family	The role of host families is to support and facilitate the adaptation of new non-local students in Hong Kong. The host family is expected to: Attend the Kick-off Reception to meet their students. They are also encouraged to participate in other events organised by OSA as part of the scheme. Arrange at least one to two gatherings or activities each term for the students, such as lunch or dinner gatherings, family events, sports, outdoor activities, and so on. Keep regular contact and maintain a good relationship with the students.
Role of Students	Students are expected to: Attend the Kick-off Reception to meet their host family. They are also encouraged to participate in other events organised by OSA as part of the scheme. Be open and willing to engage with different culture. Maintain frequent contact and a good relationship with their host family. Respond promptly to invitations from their host family and actively participate in the gatherings organised by them.
Duration	The 2026-27 Academic Year (September 2026 to May 2027)
Remarks on Accommodation	This programme is a non-residential scheme. Host families are not required to provide accommodation for non-local students, as students will be living in student hostels or their own accommodation.
Host-student Matching	OSA will match students with host families based on their shared interests and preferences. Each host family will be paired with one or two new non-local students. The matching result will be announced via email in late August 2026.
Activities	To strengthen connections, OSA will organise various activities and events throughout the year for host families and students.

Application

Host Family

Interested staff members, please fill in the online Host Family Enrolment Form

Deadline for Application: 6 July 2026 (Monday)

Student

New non-local students will receive an email invitation in early August 2026.

Highlights of the Lingnan Host Family Scheme 2025-26

Enquiries:

Office of Student Affairs

Ms Gigi Wong (Email: [email protected] /Tel: (852) 2616 7333)

Activities

Sharing from Participants

Frequently Asked Questions