Frequently Asked Questions

Ans: Your hostee will be a new non-local undergraduate student from Chinese Mainland or overseas at Lingnan.

Ans: All full-time Lingnan staff or hostel staff members are welcome to participate in the scheme to render care and support to our non-local students.   Your unique experiences are highly valued and can make a real difference.   Whether you have a family or not, your warm welcome, friendship, care and support are the most important aspects of the scheme.   We welcome your participation in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our students.

Ans:  You are welcome to host one or two students at a time.   Some host families have found that hosting two students can be even more rewarding.  Please note that this is a non-residential programme and you are NOT required to provide accommodation for your hostee(s).   Students will reside either in the student hostel or their accommodation.

Ans:  OSA will match students and host families based on their preferences. The matching result will be announced via email in late August 2026.

Ans:  There is no strict requirement.  However, host families are encouraged to arrange at least one to two gatherings or activities for their hostee(s) each term such as lunch or dinner gatherings, family events, festive celebrations, sports, or outdoor activities.

Ans:

1. Show your hospitality and invite your hostee(s) to participate in some of your family gatherings.

2. Share your culture with your hostee(s).

3. Provide encouragement and advice when your hostee(s)  face challenges or encounter difficulties.

4. Respect the cultural backgrounds of your hostee(s)  and be sensitive to their needs.

5. We encourage you and your hostee(s) to join at least one activity organised by OSA.  

Ans: Host families can indicate their preferences in the application form, and OSA will try to accommodate them as much as possible.
 

Ans:  All full-time Lingnan staff or hostel staff members.

Ans:  OSA will match the students and host families based on their preferences. The matching result will be announced via email in late August 2026.

Ans:  No, this is a non-residential programme.  You will reside either in the student hostel or your accommodation.   However, your host family may invite you to visit their home or their family gatherings providing an opportunity for you to experience local culture and make new friends.

Ans:

1. Show respect to your host family.

2. Share your culture with your host family.  You may find the experience rewarding if you are open to sharing your culture, interests and views with your host family.

3. Maintain regular contact with your host family.   Your host family is not only your mentor but also an additional support network.   You are encouraged to share your happiness, feelings and difficulties with them.

4. Be active.   Participate in activities initiated by your host family, such as festive celebrations, casual family gatherings, meal gatherings or outings.   Your engagement can help build a closer and long-lasting relationship with your host family.

5. Show your appreciation.   Express your gratitude by saying thank you or even sending a thank-you card to your host family.

Ans:  With mutual consent, we encourage host families and students to stay in touch after the scheme ends.