Cell phones
U.S. students typically do not use landline phones. There are several cell phone carriers to choose from in the U.S., so shop around for the plan that best fits your needs and budget. Depending on the length of your term of study, avoid long-term contracts and look for carriers with pay-as-you-go options that let you choose a price point that will reflect your phone usage. There are also several pre-paid options where you purchase minutes and data as you go.
Online services
There are many online services that allow you to make voice or video calls over the internet at little or no cost to your family and friends back home. You will have free internet access on campus and there are several computing sites across campus and in residence halls.
The International Center provides limited fax services for international students free of charge for correspondence directly related to academic issues or visa status.