As a safety measure, all SAI students are required to have a working cell phone number on which they can be reached while they are abroad. Phone numbers that are accessible only with wi-fi (airplane mode) are not sufficient, and do not meet SAI requirements. In addition, we are also requiring all students have a data plan that functions abroad to allow for video conferencing in the event that health mandates require quarantine, etc.

We have laid out below your options for cell phone use while you are abroad:

• Bring your own smartphone and use your own U.S. provider’s international service plan (AT&T, Verizon, etc.).  Be sure that your international plan includes data.
• Bring your own unlocked smartphone with your own U.S. provider’s international service plan (AT&T, Verizon, etc.).  Upon your arrival, rent or buy an international SIM card (or eSIM) and data plan through a provider abroad ** (Vodafone, TIM, WIND, etc.)
• Rent or buy a smartphone and international SIM card. Upon your arrival, rent or buy an international SIM card and data plan through a provider abroad ** (Vodafone, TIM, WIND, etc.

Rent or Buy From a Provider Abroad
**Please note:  for those wishing to rent or buy from a provider abroad (Vodafone, TIM, WIND, etc.):

• While SAI on-site staff will provide you with basic information and options during orientation, it is ultimately your responsibility to do your research and purchase the necessary items. Most students who choose this route will save money, but must wait until they have arrived in country to make their purchase.
• You must purchase an international plan through your US provider service to cover your first two weeks in-country. This will allow you time to figure out an international service, while still being accessible if needed.
• Once you have your phone service set up, be sure to notify SAI on-site staff of your new phone number.

For more information about your cell phone options please see a recent cell phone blog post by our Vice President of Enrollment.