Communication Abroad
International Calls
Internet calling, calling cards and cell phones are affordable and convenient options for making international phone calls while you're abroad.
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Internet Calling
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a service that allows you to make phone calls with a web service provider using a computer with an Internet connection. Skype and Vonage are two companies that are becoming popular and easy to use. It is typically free to sign up and use if you're speaking with someone using the same VoIP service accounts. You can also call regular land lines and cell phones for a reasonable per minute charge. If you use this type of service, you'll want to set up your account before you leave.
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Calling Cards
You have the option of purchasing calling cards in the U.S. prior to departure or you may purchase them abroad. If you purchase them in the U.S., be sure to check the rates offered in the country of your program site. All calling cards offer different rates to different countries, as well as for different phones. Calling cards are widely available at stores and newspaper stands abroad and may offer better rates for that particular country. You may have to compare a few to find the best one for your needs.
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Cell Phones
Students have also found it easy to buy a cell phone upon arrival at their program site. You can usually rent or purchase from local vendors for an affordable cost after you arrive. When purchasing a cell phone and SIM card abroad, you will most likely pre-pay your minutes as you go.
You should check with your carrier to see if your phone will work at your destination and any travel destinations you plan to visit. If so, you may be able to activate the international roaming service that would allow you to receive and make calls while abroad. Consider having your provider unlock your phone so that you can replace your U.S. based SIM card with a local SIM card (each SIM card comes with its own number). Having a local SIM card would ensure that you can make and receive local calls, in addition to calls to the U.S. without incurring roaming charges. More specific information will be provided at your on-site orientation.
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E-mail
Email is probably the least expensive and easiest method of communication while abroad. There are Internet cafés practically everywhere. You may also find Internet availability on your host university’s campus. Program specific information regarding email is given to each participant at the on-site orientation. Make sure to take the email address of your advisor(s) and financial aid office at your home university in addition to the email addresses of your friends and families in order to contact them from your program site.
Internet café locator:
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Mail
International mail can take anywhere from one to three weeks to deliver. For those documents that need to be received in a timely manner, there are many companies that provide fast international mail delivery (e.g. FedEx, UPS, DHL), though this is expensive. The national mail system of your host country may not be as fast as your home country, so allow for extra time when mailing from abroad. Shipping large packages may take up to 3 months for arrival in the U.S. and may be very expensive. Also be aware of restrictions when shipping certain products abroad. Most prescriptions, medications and electronics may be questioned at customs. Charges may apply when receiving packages in some countries. Check with USAC on this once you arrive at your program site.
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Helpful links
VoIP:
Pre-paid phone cards:
Country codes:
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