Arriving students from India often face immediate connectivity gaps in the USA and Canada; affordable, reliable mobile data is essential for navigation, university portals, online classes and keeping in touch, yet roaming costs, credit checks and long-term contracts at local shops complicate getting connected quickly.
Mobile internet options for new arrivals
On arrival in North America, students typically choose among three approaches: short-term tourist SIM packs sold at airports, local carrier prepaid SIMs that may require credit checks or proof of address, or digital-first prepaid plans such as Unlimit Mobile. Tourist SIMs offer quick access but limited validity and data. Traditional carriers provide robust networks but can involve eligibility barriers for newcomers. Digital eSIM-based providers bridge those gaps by offering prepaid, contract-free plans that can be activated before travel.
What is eSIM and why it matters for students
An eSIM is a programmable, embedded SIM profile stored on a compatible phone. It lets students activate a local plan before boarding so data is available immediately on landing—no physical SIM shop queues, no delays. With an eSIM, students can retain their Indian SIM in the second slot (on dual-SIM phones) to receive OTPs and calls, while using a North American number and data for local services.
Practical benefits
- Pre-activation: instant data on arrival
- Dual-SIM convenience: home and local numbers together
- Reduced risk of losing a physical SIM
- Fast QR-based setup—suitable for late-night or early-morning landings
About Unlimit Mobile
Unlimit Mobile is a pay-as-you-go operator that targets tourists, students and visiting professionals across the USA and Canada. It offers both eSIM and physical SIM options, multi-month prepaid plans and no-contract arrangements, making it suited to temporary stays and students who cannot meet local credit or address requirements.
Key features
- Unlimited domestic calling and texting
- High-speed 5G data on participating networks (Canada via Telus)
- Hotspot/tethering allowed
- Prepaid multi-month options without contracts or credit checks
- Customer support channels including WhatsApp for Indian customers
Plans, pricing and student-focused offers
Unlimit’s pricing is structured around duration tiers—1, 3, 6 and 12 months—with names like “Save Smart” and “Save Big” reflecting longer-term discounts. A dedicated India-facing “Trial Pack” (1 month) starts at US $45 and advertises up to 120 GB of high-speed data plus unlimited calls and SMS within the USA and Canada, as well as international SMS and minutes to select countries including India.
The operator also runs group incentives such as the “Rally Your Crew” program: bringing multiple sign-ups together reduces per-SIM cost, while referral bonuses can increase an individual’s data allotment. These features can make Unlimit cost-effective for student cohorts arriving together.
Network and coverage
In Canada Unlimit leverages the Telus 5G network for coverage in major cities; in the US it partners with major tier-1 networks to provide reliable high-speed connectivity. As with any MVNO-style offering, peak speeds and coverage depend on the underlying host network and local congestion.
How to buy and activate
Indian students can purchase Unlimit plans before departure via the provider’s website. The purchase flow typically lets users choose country (USA or Canada), plan duration, and SIM type (eSIM or physical). After completing eKYC, customers receive a QR code (for eSIM) or a shipped SIM card. Activation steps are simple: scan the QR or insert the SIM on arrival, then manage top-ups and renewals through the online portal.
Who should consider Unlimit Mobile?
For international students who need immediate, prepaid connectivity without credit checks or long-term contracts, Unlimit Mobile offers a compelling mix of convenience, data allowance and student-friendly pricing. Its ability to activate service before travel, support for hotspot usage, and group-discount mechanisms make it a practical option for many students moving to the USA or Canada, though travellers should compare local coverage and speed expectations against incumbent carriers before finalising their choice.
