INTERNATIONAL SERVICES OFFICE
INTERNATIONAL SERVICES OFFICE ● 1922 F STREET, NW, Suite 205 ● WASHINGTON, DC 20052 ● (202)994-4477 ● iso@gwu.edu ● https://internationalservices.gwu.edu/
Typically cell phone plans:
- Two-year contract
- Monthly plan
- Family plan
- Prepaid plan
Information for Cell Phone Services in and around Washington DC
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Long-Term Contracts & Deposit: All companies offer contracts, most of which are 2 years. These are typically the cheapest
plans, but they often require a social security number or a deposit. The deposit varies according to the carrier from $50 to $ 500.
You will get your deposit back if you pay your bill on time. Some carriers return your deposit after 1 year with a small interest, but
others only return your deposit.
Cell Phone Plans, Options & Features: Cell phone carriers usually offer Monthly plan, Family plan, and Pre-paid plan.
Before you sign on, make sure you understand what your phone plan includes, e.g. activation/termination fee, free phone, free
night/weekend minutes, rollover minutes, and the expiration date of pre-paid minutes.
o Monthly plan: Most phone companies will designate certain times of day that calling
is cheaper or free. Additionally, a lot of phone companies offer free mobile-to-
mobile minutes. If you exceed a certain amount of minutes, cell phone carriers will
charge for the extra minutes.
o Family plan: It does not require members of the plan to actually be family. This plan
can also be cheaper, as the “family members” would share minutes and costs.
o Pre-paid plan: It is for which credit is purchased in advance of service use. You can recharge as much as you need.
* Be aware that some companies will deduct your minutes for both outgoing and incoming calls.
Make sure you know and understand your plan to receive the best deals possible!
Data Plans: Keep in mind that if you’re looking to purchase a smartphone, the data plan (sending emails, using the internet, etc)
usually requires its own plan. Some providers offer pay-per-use data plans or data packages for those who plan to use these features
more often.
International Communication: Consider international calling plans and international text messaging plans (sometimes separate /
other times included) when deciding on your cell phone carrier and plan. You can always use Skype or buy International phone
cards online.
Cell phones: You don’t necessarily need to buy a new cell phone. You can continue to use your phone depending on your cell
phone carriers. Check with your cell phone carriers.
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The George Washington University does not favor any particular cell phone provider and strives to present this information in an objective and equitable manner.