Homestay and Housing Search
Living in Tacoma, WA
Students at Tacoma Community College can chose to live with an American homestay family, rent an apartment, home or condominium or live with local relatives or friends.
Homestay
Homestay is an exciting and unique way to learn about American culture. Our homestay placements are quarterly commitments (3 months).
Due to COVID-19, the TCC Homestay program was on pause for the past year. We are excited to welcome students to our Homestay program once again starting in Fall 2021. We appreciate your patience as we re-activate our program.
- Homestay Placement Fee: $250
One-time placement fee for students who join the Homestay Program. Students receive the Homestay matching service, continued support from the staff throughout their time at TCC and airport pick up.
TCC offers two homestay options:
- Complete Homestay | $675 per month
3 meals per day, of which the host prepares dinner and the student prepares breakfast and lunch.
- Shared Homestay | $525 per month
No meals provided; the host provides a room for the student and access to a kitchen.
| Homestay Terms | Application Deadlines* |
| Fall Quarter | August 15 |
| Winter Quarter | November 15 |
| Spring Quarter | February 15 |
| Summer Quarter | May 15 |
Applying for Homestay
Did you apply for a Homestay family prior to June 2021? Contact Assistant Director, Housing to have your application moved to a future term.
After you apply, please review the following resources:
- Review the Homestay Handbook
- Follow all New International Student Steps
- Provide Arrival Services Confirmation (provide arrival information for airport pick up)
- Pay the $250 Placement Fee (billed to student account after arrival)
TCC begins the matching process following the application deadline for that specific term. This process can take up to two weeks.
Applying early DOES give you priority in the matching process, but all students will receive their family's profile approximately 2 weeks prior to arrival.
If you are experiencing a delay in receiving your visa or booking your flight, please make sure to communicate with TCC International Housing before the deadlines.
Renting
TCC International Programs does not place students into local apartments, homes or condominiums. Students should plan to contact local landlords directly. Leases for an apartment or home will typically be a minimum of six months.
APARTMENTS
Below is a list of apartments within walking distance of TCC where international students can apply without requiring a co-signer:
Need more choices? Check out:
ROOM RENTALS
Often times a current student is in need of a roommate or community members are looking to rent out an available room in their home. Students can visit TCC International Programs to review the Roomates Wanted board or ask International Programs staff for recommendations.
Hotel Information
For students and/or parents looking for short-term accommodations in Tacoma, the following hotels provide discounts to friends of TCC.
- Extended Stay - Tacoma South (near the Tacoma Mall with direct public transit to TCC)
- Best Western Plus Tacoma Dome
- Clarion Inn
Become a Host!
We are always seeking enthusiastic families who would like to host long-term or short-term students. Learn more!
Have questions? Contact International Housing
International Programs
Tacoma Community College
Building 11, 2nd Floor
Phone/Fax: 253-566-5190
Facebook/Instagram: @tacomaccinternational
WeChat: TacomaCC塔科马