Accommodation and Welfare
Safe, welcoming living arrangements and dedicated welfare support — with tailored care for students under 18.
Accommodation and Welfare Arrangements
Accommodation is an important part of every student's overall experience. During enrolment, IELC provides support to coordinate your welfare and accommodation arrangements. For students under 18, there are three possible welfare arrangements.
Accompanied by a Guardian
Some students are accompanied by a parent or guardian, who applies for a guardian visa. The appointed guardian must be a direct blood relative of the student, and may already live in Australia or travel to Australia to live with the student throughout their course.
Homestay
The most common option for students not accompanied by a guardian. Live with a carefully selected Australian family, matched to your preferences, and practise your English as part of everyday family life. Ideally for students aged 14 and over (higher fees apply for younger students).
Boarding School
Depending on your mainstream school, you may be able to live in its boarding facility while you undertake your Intensive English studies at IELC. This is negotiated at the time of enrolment and is at the discretion of your mainstream school.
A Home Away From Home
Homestay families open their homes to international students for the duration of their studies, helping you settle into your new life in Adelaide. You become part of the family — sharing meals, meeting new people, and practising your conversational English every day, one of the best ways to improve. Hosts orient you to the local area and culture while respecting the customs of your home country. IELC's convenient city location lets you choose a homestay in any part of the city, and if you plan to transition to a partner school, we make every effort to place you with a family nearby. Should you ever need support, our International Student Support and Welfare Coordinator is on hand to help.
2026 Homestay Fees
There is an initial placement fee and a weekly fee, which includes a private furnished room, all daily meals, utilities, and internet access.
Placement fee (one-off)
$380AU
Weekly fee
$430AU / week
Some mainstream partner schools manage their own homestay programs, so fees may vary slightly from those quoted. For full fees, charges, and any updates, please refer to our homestay partner.
Homestay placements are arranged through our partner, Happy Homestay.
Email Happy HomestayWhat's Included
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of secondary students, accredited hosts are required to pass a Working With Children Check. A typical homestay package covers:
Working With Children Check
All accredited hosts must pass a Working With Children Check to safeguard secondary students.
Furnished Bedroom
Your own private, furnished bedroom with a desk and study lamp.
Three Meals a Day
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided each day.
Utilities Included
Water, power, and Wi-Fi are all included in your homestay.
Settling-In Support
Guidance on navigating local public transport and settling into the Adelaide area.
Questions About Welfare and Accommodation?
Our International Student Support and Welfare Coordinator is here to help you settle in after you arrive in Adelaide.