Janice Lozano
International students travelling to the United States can get a US phone number by following a few simple steps. Firstly, it is important to research mobile plans and carriers in advance, comparing prices and checking for any exclusive offers for international students. Students should also check their phone compatibility with US networks and may need to unlock their phones or purchase a new one. To get a US number, students can purchase a SIM card from a carrier store or online, providing essential documentation such as a passport, visa information, and proof of address. Additionally, students can consider using a Virtual Phone Number (VoIP) provider to obtain a US number, which offers affordable international calling rates and can be useful for staying connected with classmates and local services. For those seeking a US Social Security Number (SSN), an in-person application at a SSA office is required, along with supporting documents and relevant certificates.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Phone compatibility | Check if your phone is compatible with US networks |
| Mobile plan | Research mobile plans and compare pricing |
| Phone purchase | Buy an unlocked phone or purchase a new one |
| Carrier websites | Check for exclusive offers for international students |
| Student discounts | Contact customer service representatives to inquire about student discounts |
| Student organizations | Connect with student groups or university services that may have partnerships with mobile carriers |
| SIM card purchase | Purchase a SIM card from a carrier store, authorized retailer, or online |
| Documentation | Bring essential documents such as passport, visa, and proof of address |
| Communication needs | Assess your data, call, and text usage requirements |
| Prepaid or postpaid plans | Understand the difference between prepaid and postpaid plans |
| Google Fi | Use Google Fi for unlimited calling, texting, and data with a US number worldwide |
| Google Voice | Use Google Voice's Starter or Premier plan for calls and texts to/from the US and Canada |
| US Mobile | Select a monthly plan for texts, calls, and data; useful for receiving 2FA/OTP SMS messages abroad |
| Virtual phone number providers | Choose from VoIP providers like OpenPhone, Grasshopper, or Google Voice |
| Social Security Number | Visit a SSA office and apply with Form SS-5 and supporting documents |
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What You'll Learn
Check phone compatibility with US networks
As an international student, one of the first things you should do when you arrive in the US is to get a US phone number. This will make communication easier and cheaper. Before you select a plan, it is a good idea to check your phone's compatibility with US networks.
There are several ways to check your phone's compatibility with US networks. Firstly, you can use a website such as WillMyPhoneWork.net. This website allows you to select your mobile device and choose a carrier network to check compatibility. It presents you with three networks: 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE, along with the corresponding network frequencies.
Alternatively, you can contact a US mobile carrier directly, providing them with your phone's make and model, IMEI, and any other relevant details, to check which of their networks is the best fit. For instance, US Mobile offers three networks: Warp, Light Speed, and an unnamed third option.
It is important to note that even if your phone is compatible with a carrier's network frequencies, it may still be blocked by the carrier. Certain carriers, such as Verizon USA, have an "approved list" of devices. Additionally, some carriers only make certain frequencies or bands available in specific geographical regions.
To maximise compatibility, your smartphone variant should support as many frequencies as possible. All bands 4, 5, 66, 12, and 71 in 4G LTE and Extended Range 4G LTE are the minimum required. Your device will also need to be approved by carriers like AT&T.
If your phone is not compatible, you may need to unlock it or purchase a new one. Many smartphones are sold unlocked, allowing you to use them with any carrier.
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Research mobile plans and carriers
As an international student in the US, you can choose to get a local US number by purchasing a new phone or a SIM card. Major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint offer plans tailored to the needs of international students. Here are some factors to consider when researching mobile plans and carriers:
Phone Compatibility
First, check if your current phone is compatible with US networks. If you live outside the US, it's likely that your phone uses GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), which is not the most common system in the US. You can use websites like Willmyphonework.net to check if your phone will work in the US. If your phone is not compatible, you may need to purchase a new one or use an unlocked phone with a US SIM card.
International Roaming
Using your current mobile plan with international roaming can result in high phone bills. It is generally recommended to either get a local SIM card or purchase an international mobile plan to avoid these charges.
Mobile Plans
When choosing a mobile plan, consider your specific needs, such as data usage, calling frequency, and preferred countries for communication. Compare plans from different carriers to find one that suits your requirements. You can also look for plans with international calling and texting included or offered at competitive rates.
Prepaid vs Postpaid Plans
Prepaid plans offer flexibility and control over your spending, as you pay for the services in advance. There are usually no credit checks or contracts required with prepaid plans. However, they may offer fewer features and limited device compatibility. Postpaid plans, on the other hand, typically involve signing a contract and may require a credit check. You are billed at the end of each month for the services used.
Student Discounts
Many mobile carriers offer discounts and promotions specifically for students. Check with individual carriers to see what student discounts they offer, and be prepared to provide valid student identification or a university-affiliated email address. Some carriers, like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, have special plans or packages for students.
Customer Support
Prioritize carriers that offer robust customer support, especially if they provide multilingual assistance. This can be helpful when navigating a new country's phone services and resolving any queries or issues.
By researching and comparing different mobile plans and carriers, you can find the best option that meets your needs and budget as an international student in the US.
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Understand the difference between prepaid and postpaid plans
As an international student in the US, one of the first things you'll need to do is get a US phone number. Having a local number will not only make communication easier but will also open up opportunities for staying connected and accessing essential services. Before selecting a plan, it's a good idea to understand the difference between prepaid and postpaid plans.
Prepaid mobile plans offer flexibility and control over your spending. You pay upfront for your service charges every month or every few months. You can choose a plan with an agreed-upon amount of airtime, text messages, and data. Prepaid plans are ideal for those who primarily use their phones for calls and texts with occasional data use. They are also a good option if you want to avoid a credit check. If you miss a payment, your phone service will be cut off.
Postpaid wireless service, on the other hand, means paying a monthly plan charge for a service that typically includes calls, texts, and data usage. You receive a bill for a set monthly fee that you pay at the end of your billing cycle. Postpaid plans tend to come with more features and extras, such as streaming perks, faster streaming, hotspot data allowances, and free upgrades. They are ideal for those who want to pay off a mobile phone over time or take advantage of special phone deals and offers.
Both prepaid and postpaid plans have their advantages, and the best option depends on your data usage, lifestyle, and budget management. Prepaid plans offer flexibility and control over spending, while postpaid plans provide more features and can be cost-effective for families.
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Compare plans and pricing
When comparing plans and pricing as an international student, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, understand your specific needs and usage patterns, such as how much data you typically use per month, whether you frequently make international calls, and if you require additional features like mobile hotspot or international roaming.
You can start by exploring the websites of major US carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint to compare their plans and pricing. Most carrier websites provide detailed information about their coverage maps, data speeds, and international roaming options. For instance, T-Mobile's ONE plan offers unlimited data and texting in over 210 countries without extra charges, while AT&T's international plan costs vary based on the chosen features.
Additionally, consider looking into Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) like Mint Mobile, Simple Mobile, or Straight Talk, which often provide competitive rates and flexible plans. For example, Straight Talk offers plans ranging from $30 to $60 per month, with the higher-priced option including 10GB of data and unlimited worldwide calls and texts.
To make comparisons easier, you can utilize online comparison tools on websites like Whistleout.com, which aggregate information from multiple carriers in one place. You can also refer to independent reviews and forums to gain insights from the experiences of other consumers with different carriers and plans.
Another option is to consider prepaid plans, which offer flexibility and control over your spending. Prepaid plans typically range from $35 to $75 per month for unlimited texting, calling, and data, and they don't require a contract or credit history. However, some carriers may require a Social Security Number or a deposit for prepaid plans.
Lastly, don't forget to explore student discounts and promotions, as many carriers offer exclusive deals for international students. You can also look for bundle services, where you can save more by combining mobile plans with other services like the internet or cable.
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Contact customer service for student discounts
International students can access a variety of discounts in shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues by presenting their student ID cards. However, there are also other ways to access student discounts, such as through dedicated student discount programs and cards.
One popular option is the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which is endorsed by UNESCO and recognised in over 130 countries. The ISIC card can be used to access discounts on travel, shopping, entertainment, and dining worldwide. The price of the card varies depending on the country, ranging from $4 to $25. Additionally, students under 30 years old can apply for the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC), which offers similar benefits to the ISIC card, as well as additional discounts on youth-specific services such as youth hostels and adventure tours.
In the UK, students can take advantage of the Totum card (formerly known as the NUS Extra Card), which provides access to over 200 discounts on food, fashion, entertainment, and health services. The card costs £12 per year and can be used at various retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
For students in the US, the NUS card is a popular option for accessing student discounts. The card can be obtained for free from universities or applied for online, and it serves as proof of student status. Additionally, students can join UNiDAYS, a free student discount program that offers discounts from a wide range of online retailers.
In Canada, international students can enjoy discounts at various restaurants, including Subway, Chipotle, Burger King, and McDonald's, by simply presenting their student ID cards. There are also student deals with phone and electronic companies like Shaw and Best Buy, as well as transportation discounts with GO Transit.
When in doubt, it is always a good idea to inquire about student discounts directly with the customer service staff of the business or organisation. Many companies are happy to accommodate students and may offer special pricing or promotions that are not widely advertised. Additionally, when planning to study abroad, it is worth researching the specific student discount programs and cards available in that country, as well as any regional or local student cards specific to certain areas.
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Frequently asked questions
International students can get a US number by purchasing a SIM card from a carrier store, an authorized retailer, or online. Popular carriers include Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint.
It is important to research mobile plans before arriving in the US. Check your phone compatibility with US networks, and review your current plan for international roaming options. Compare plans and pricing across different carriers, and look for reviews and recommendations from other international students.
Mint Mobile is a popular choice for international students as it accepts international credit and debit cards, as well as PayPal. CampusSIMS, a part of the Mint Mobile family, offers one of the lowest rates in wireless, with plans starting at $15 per month.
Having a local US number makes communication easier and more affordable. It is cheaper to make local calls than being charged international rates. Additionally, a US number can help you stay connected with classmates, lecturers, and local services.
Yes, international students can consider using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider such as OpenPhone or Google Voice. These services offer virtual US numbers, allowing you to make and receive calls and texts without the need for a traditional SIM card.
