FAQ and 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to host a delegate?

There are no fees associated with this program. Your family just has to open your home and your hearts to the delegates. Host families are responsible for expenses normally incurred for room and board such as providing meals at home, when dining out, or during any trips. In addition, the host family should cover any admissions, fees or other expenses involved in family outings.  

Do the delegates speak English?

The older ones will have a better grasp of the language, but their ability to speak English is very limited. The younger children's English will be rather poor. We have found that children figure out how to communicate with each other rather quickly.

What if we struggle communicating?

Struggles with communication will be common. Part of the experience is trying to navigate these language hurdles. Speaking slowly (not loudly), using hand gestures, writing things down, or using Google Translate are all helpful ways to communicate with the delegates. Be patient and understanding of their lack of English skills. Having to repeat yourself and re-explain things many times during their stay will be normal. If things get too confusing and the other ways haven't worked, BRIE has two translators (Jessica and Bryan) that you are welcome to contact at any time.

How long will they be with us?

The delegates are here for about 3-4 weeks, from the end of July to the middle of August. In 2025, the delegates will be here from July 22nd to Aug. 17th.

What do we do with them?

Incorporate them into your family. If you are going on a trip, take them along. The delegate wants to experience an American family life. Show them what Utah is like in the summer and all of the activities that are possible.

The purpose of the homestay experience is not sight-seeing! The emphasis is on daily family life. It's the simple things that are interesting, the things we might take for granted; like a trip to the grocery store, daily chores, washing your car, mowing the lawn, etc.

What if my son/daughter has a camp scheduled?

Wonderful! The delegate would love to go with their host siblings to church/scout/whatever camp if it is possible. If there is a fee, the delegate's program will cover the cost.

What age are the delegates?

The delegates range from 11 to 17 years old with most of them in the 12-16 year old range as older youth are usually busy studying for the university entrance exams. We try to place delegates in families with a child that is within 2 years of age of the delegate.

Can we host if we don't have children in the age range of the delegates?

Yes. An adult chaperone accompanies the delegates from Japan and will also need to be placed with a host family. 

May single parents host? 

Yes. As long as there are provisions made for responsible supervision of the delegates at all times, there is no problem with a single parent hosting. 

What about homes where English is not the native language?

One of the objectives of the homestay is to allow delegates to learn/practice English. Homes in which English is not the primary language are acceptable as long as family members agree to speak English while the delegate is with them. 

Can delegates and their host sibling share a room?

Yes. They can share a room, but they cannot share a bed. Exceptions can be made upon traveling (hotel), but must be cleared with the program coordinator.

Are delegates required to be vaccinated? Is our family required to be vaccinated?

The answer to both questions is NO. It is a not required by either country and is up to the individual. We will not ask and it will not be required to disclose.

General Timeline of events

March - BRIE generally has the profiles of the delegates that will be coming. Once the Host Family Questionnaire is complete (link at the bottom of the page) you will be able to view and select the delegate that you would like to stay with you. We would like to match delegates and families as early as possible so they can start communicating. Sending letters and/or emails before the homestay is an integral part of the experience. There are free ways to do video chats (Facebook messenger, Zoom) which is a great way to get to know one another and allow the the delegate to become familiar with the home before arrival. 

May - All Japanese delegates need to be assigned to a Host Family and all Host Family information needs to be turned in to Labo, our partners in Japan.

July - The delegates typically arrive mid-July (July 22, 2025). They have a 3-4 day camp with the BRIE program to help them adjust to Utah time and recover from a lot of travel. We invite and encourage the host sibling to join us for that camp, free of charge. Details will be given by the first part of July. 

At the end of the 3-4 day camp, we invite host families to join us for a program put on by the delegates. After this program you will pick up your delegate and start your homestay experience. 

August -  We will have a midterm activity that all host families will be invited it. The date, location and activity will change from year to year. Host families will be sent all the information well in advance. Attendance is not required but it is a great chance for B.R.I.E the Japanese chaperones to catch up with the families and delegates about how the stay is going so far. 

The delegates will generally leave mid-August (Aug. 17, 2025). If the host sibling has started school by then, schools will sometimes give permission for the delegate to attend with the host sibling and see what American school is like. 

We will provide specific drop off instructions and reminders as the time gets closer, but typically you will bring the delegate to a hotel near the airport where there will be a video presentation and a very emotional farewell.