So, you have landed in your new home, ready to start your international education. You are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. It is nearly time for you to begin your study but there is still a lot to learn. You need to find your classes, decide on an apartment, locate the supermarket, make some friends … the list seems to be never ending.

It's overwhelming at first, but the decision you made is the start on your way to a bright future.

From using Google Maps for directions, to transferring money quickly and checking where the closest bus stop is - your phone will be your best friend. Before you brave this new world, you will want to make sure you have one essential tool at your disposal: a working mobile phone.

Navigating the range of plans and service providers in a new country is complicated and you want to get the best deal you can. Let's take a look at a few quick tips to ensure you find the right SIM Card for your needs.

Tip #1: Talk to your home plan provider

Your first stop should be your home plan provider. You'll want to ask them whether or not your current phone will work during your time overseas. It is a mixed bag with providers, some offer really awesome international plans, in this case, you will be able to use your phone as normal.

However, most service providers tend to either not offer coverage overseas at all, or they will charge excessive fees to keep your phone running internationally. Whatever the case, the journey to the right SIM card will start with a conversation between you and your regular provider.

Tip #2: Unlock your phone

While you're chatting to your provider about your plan options, make sure you ask them if it is possible to unlock your phone. This will allow you to insert any SIM card into your current smartphone so you don't have to pay for a new phone altogether. Most telecom providers offer this service for free if you contact them before leaving the country.

If you receive the green light to unlock your phone, make sure everything is in order before you set off. Check that everything seems to be functioning as normal, find the SIM card slot on your phone for future reference, and start looking into SIM card options in your study abroad destination.

If you are travelling to Canada, Cohort Go is proud to announce we will be launching our own SIM Cards, powered by PhoneBox. Our SIM Cards feature unlimited calls and texts in Canada, with online activation, in-app data usage tracking and 24/7 customer support via SMS.

Launching soon, our SIM Cards will be available for agents to purchase through the Cohort Go portal, so let your agent know if you would like to take advantage of this service.  By purchasing your SIM Card before you depart, you will be able to contact your family as soon as you land in Canada, and let loved ones back home know you are safe during your overseas study adventure.

Tip #3: Failing that …. Opt for a cheap mobile option

If your provider is being stubborn about unlocking your phone, it's likely time for Plan B. You'll want to buy a phone from your country of study. For students undertaking a longer term of international study, it may be worth investing in a mid-range phone.

However, for those who don't have the budget for this, it's best to get a cheap phone for texts and calls while keeping your normal smartphone for general browsing. Remember: Even unlocked phones can connect to Wi-Fi and the internet when in range.

Tip #4: We can help

Cohort Go enables students to prepare for their trip before they go - saving them from searching for the services once they arrive in Australia.

Whether you are trying to find out the best way to transfer money internationally need Overseas Student Health Cover or need some short term accommodation, Cohort Go is here to help. Our goal is to ensure you get your overseas study experience off to a flying start!

Looking for more international study tips?

Download our international study survival guide below!