short term phone plans
If you need a SIM card and/or a short-term phone plan, the Office of International Programs has physical SIM cards that use Mint Mobile and provide month-to-month service. You can use the card the entire time you are in the U.S., or you can use it just until you find a permanent phone plan. The Mint Mobile physical SIM cards offered by the Office of International Programs currently include 1 free month of service.
Mint Mobile also offers eSIMs that can be set up so you have a U.S. phone number and plan available immediately upon your arrival. This does not include a free month of service, but it does allow you to have an active phone number as soon as you are in the U.S. To activate a Mint Mobile eSIM, download the Mint Mobile app on your phone. Select your desired phone plan option. Enter your information and payment details. Confirm details and complete checkout to install your eSIM.
Long term phone plans
For long-term coverage, other frequently used providers include: Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T. However, there are other providers available, so do your research and use whichever works best for you.
Consider asking about international calling options and any fees associated with those options!