Phone Plans

Bring your smartphone with you to France.

Even if you do not use cell phone service with your phone, you can still use WiFi to check emails and to communicate via free messaging services (WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.).

If you do decide to purchase a global phone plan through your U.S. carrier, be aware that it will most likely be expensive, as call rates go as high as $2 per minute and messages as high as $0.50 per text.

Having an unlocked phone is necessary in order to use a French SIM card upon arrival.

Before departure, call your cell phone carrier to ask them if your phone is unlocked or if it is capable of being unlocked. If you bring your unlocked phone, ACM-IAU staff will explain during orientation (the Monday after arrival) how and where to purchase SIM cards. In the first 1-2 days, students will not have cell phone service. You can still use computers and phones to access WiFi and stay in touch with those back home.

Read this article for detailed information on using cell phones while abroad.

How to dial a phone number abroad.

Within France:

1. Dial the ten digits (ex: 06.82.59.64.48)

From anywhere else in Europe to a number in France:

1. Dial 00, then dial 33 (the country code for France)
2. Dial the phone number without the initial 0 (ex: 00.33.6.82.59.64.48)

Free Mobile

We recommend using Free Mobile, a French wireless service provider, which often offers the best prices for students. By signing up early in the semester, you may be able to take advantage of student deals. Phone/SIM plans with them can cost as low as $10-$15 per month. Visit the site for more information.

If not using a smartphone:

• Another option is to buy a prepaid phone after arrival in Aix and recharge as needed.
  • This is an affordable option that would suit students whose phones cannot be unlocked.
  • Recharging minutes can be purchased at local convenience stores. The initial phone is inexpensive and easy to work (some host families may even have old phones from previous students they offer to the student).
  • Incoming calls from France and the U.S. are free.
• You may also consider renting a phone from companies such as Piccell or Telestial in the U.S., so that you already have a functioning phone upon arrival in France. See the below table for more information.