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To avoid expensive roaming fees, it is a good idea to purchase a U.S. based cell-phone plan upon arrival in the U.S. You have three choices for cell phone plans:
Using an unlocked cell phone from home and purchasing a new SIM card in the U.S. (NOTE: ISS offers free SIM cards to our international students. Incoming students can find their SIM card in their welcome bags. If you need one, please contact ISS.)
Buying a new phone and setting up a pre-paid plan to pay as you go
Buying a new cell phone and setting up a contract plan to pay monthly
Option 1: Using an unlocked cell phone from home and purchasing a new SIM card in the U.S.
Option 1: Using an unlocked cell phone from home and purchasing a new SIM card in the U.S.
It’s important to note that most international phones are locked in the U.S., which eliminates the option. If you have an unlocked phone, ISS has a supply of SIM cards you can set up via a downloaded app or online.
Option 2: Buying a new phone and setting up a pre-paid plan to pay as you go
Option 2: Buying a new phone and setting up a pre-paid plan to pay as you go
If you need a new phone, basic models usually cost $50–60 or more. You’ll also buy minutes or data separately. This option is more expensive overall, but it’s good if you're only in the U.S. for a short time or won’t use your phone much. There’s no contract, but you must top up when you run out of minutes.
Option 3: Buying a new cell phone and setting up a contract plan to pay monthly
Option 3: Buying a new cell phone and setting up a contract plan to pay monthly
Contract plans usually require you to buy a phone from the provider and sign a 1–2 year agreement. You’ll pay a bill each month. These plans often require a Social Security number or credit check, which many international students don’t have. However, T-Mobile offers plans with no contract, no deposit, and no credit check, making it a great option for international students.
Search for a plan with international calling options
Search for a plan with international calling options
As an international student, you’ll probably want to stay in touch with friends and family back home. Before choosing a phone plan, check the international calling options—some can get expensive quickly. The easiest and cheapest way to call overseas is by using free apps like WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, or WeChat. These work on both phones and computers and can be used in the U.S. with Wi-Fi or data.
Cellphone Options
Cellphone Options
T-Mobile: 500 E Ben White Blvd #300, Austin, TX 78704
Metro by T-Mobile: 2704 S Congress Ave Ste 2712, Austin, TX 78704
Cricket Wireless: 600 E Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
AT&T: 601 W Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78704
Boost Mobile: 2121 E Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78741
Disclaimer: The ISS staff will provide regulatory and practice information related to F and J status, as it stands at the time of the consultation. Regulatory content is designed for SEU students and is not intended to constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for legal counsel.
Disclaimer: The ISS staff will provide regulatory and practice information related to F and J status, as it stands at the time of the consultation. Regulatory content is designed for SEU students and is not intended to constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for legal counsel.
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