Review Mizzou technology abroad for information about multifactor authentication, VPN and eduroam internet access. If you will not have access to your U.S. phone number for multifactor authentication, you should set up an alternate form of authentication before you go abroad.
Cell phones
Since your program is just about a month long, it is not recommended that you purchase a cell phone with a contract while abroad. If you choose to have a cell phone while abroad, you have several options:
- Contact your current provider to see what options are available.
- Unlock your American phone and buy a pre-paid SIM card in Germany.
- Purchase a pay-as-you-go phone in Germany.
On most smartphones, you can turn off the mobile data connection and use Wi-Fi only. You won’t be able to call or text from your phone, but you will be able to send email, surf the web and use certain apps. WhatsApp is very popular for communication while abroad.
Internet access
Now more than ever, there are inexpensive and convenient options for communication via the Internet — and it is probably the cheapest way to keep in contact while overseas. In addition to Internet access on campus, there are Internet cafes on almost every corner in Germany. You can pop into one and pay a nominal fee (usually about five to 15 euro) for an hour of computer use. There should be some sort of Internet service via ethernet in your residence hall. You can also get a Wi-Fi stick from a wireless carrier — though the data you have per month is limited, so pay attention.