The Best SIM Card for International Students in Australia: The 2026 Expert Picks

In Australia, a few mobile service providers offer special plans or discounts for students, ranging from bonus data to monthly savings. Even if some don’t have any specific deals for students, they have some cheap plans that are suitable for you and your study journey. 

Key Takeaways

• Several mobile service providers offer special plans or discounts for students while some don’t.
• A SIM card is truly beneficial for international students in many ways.
• You can use a physical SIM or eSIM or Dual SIMs, depending on your needs and device compatibility.
• You can save more money if you know how to get a suitable SIM card based on many factors.

The Importance of SIM Cards for Overseas Students

As an international student, you might be wondering why you need an Australian SIM card while WiFi is reliable and widely available across different cities in the country. Fundamentally, this is primarily a convenience issue. With a SIM card, you can:

• Stay connected in the public: When you are at home, relying on WiFi is acceptable but once you are outdoors, you will need to locate a publicly available signal in order to re-establish connection with the outside world. That’s when a SIM card comes in handy. You can connect to the Internet to conduct research or have a chat with friends on different platforms while in public.
• Have a prepaid number: It is recommended to purchase a prepaid card as you only need to pay for the calls and messages you make. There are no hidden fees or lock-in contracts. Besides, having an Australian number can increase your credibility when applying for a job or in case of emergency uses. 
• Lower costs: You can save money on calls, texts and data by using a local SIM card or international plan, which is frequently far less expensive than the roaming plan offered by your home carrier.

eSIM vs Physical SIM (and Dual SIM tips)

With both eSIMs and physical SIMs, you can use mobile data, send messages and make calls as they connect your phone to a mobile network. The main difference is in the way they are set up and managed. 

A physical SIM card is a detachable chip that you put into your phone. An eSIM card is originally embedded into your device that can be digitally activated without the need of a SIM tray or plastic card. 

Although eSIMs are more convenient and flexible, they are only compatible with phones that support eSIMs. You will need to use a physical SIMs if your device does not support the other.

There are more distinctions between them that make one outshine the other in certain cases.

	eSIM	Physical SIM
Activation method	Remote activation through carrier provisioning, an app, or a QR code	Manually inserting the SIM card and using a wireless provider to activate it.
Storage capacity	Multiple carrier profiles (often 5-10, 1-2 active at once)	Single carrier profile per SIM card
Device compatibility	Numerous wearables and tablets as well as the majority of new flagship and mid-range phones	Almost all cell phones, including older models
Dual SIM capability	Dual eSIM and one eSIM + one physical SIM are supported	2 physical SIM slots, which are becoming less common in phones now

Depending on your device, travel preferences and mobile service management style, you can choose between an eSIM, a physical SIM and Dual SIMs. Here is a brief guide:

Choose an eSIM when you:

• Want to quickly switch network as you travel a lot
• Want a complete digital setup
• Prefer using dual SIM features

Choose a physical SIM when you:

• Not familiar with hi-tech setup
• Have an old-fashioned phone that doesn’t support eSIM
• Want a plug-and-play solution 

Choose Dual SIMs when you:

• Have a modern phone that supports dual SIM (eSIM + Physical SIM)
• Prioritize flexibility by using a physical SIM card as a backup and an eSIM for your main line
• Need 2 numbers for working remotely, travelling often or running businesses.

Finding The Best SIM Card for International Students in Australia

There are just 3 mobile phone networks in Australia: Vodafone, Telstra and Optus. However, these 3 main networks are used by dozens of phone service providers known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) to run their business (often with lower coverage).

Based on price, features and expert review, we have selected the 7 of the best options. Make sure you make your own comparison before selecting the best cell plan for you.

Vodafone – Small SIM Only Plans for Students

Vodafone is an Australian telecom company that offers both fixed and mobile broadband services. Over 23 million Australians are serviced by Vodafone’s mobile network. 

Its Small SIM Only Plans for Students come with standard intentional call minutes, limited standard national calls, texts and data for use within Australia. With this plan, you won’t have to pay any device repayment fees but the monthly cost.

Cost: $39 for the first 12 months, then $53/month

Monthly data allowance: 200GB

Features:

• Unlimited standard national calls and texts
• Get an extra 140GB of bonus data per month if you are students with a valid student ID and email who stay connected to this plan when in Australia
• Unlimited number of standard international calls to Zone 1 location

Why we like it: 

• Save $14 a month for the first 12 months with Vodafone’s current promotion
• No fees for extra data
• Offer a large coverage and mobile network
• Support 5G mobile network for better connectivity

Best for: Those looking for a student-only deal with tailored benefits.

Telstra – Basic SIM Only Plans 

In Australia, Telstra has the biggest and most trustworthy mobile network. It covers an area of one million square kilometres, more than any other mobile network.

Its Basic SIM Only Plans for Students come with various benefits and no lock-in contract which means you can cancel it at any time. Besides, you have the option of using an eSIM or a physical SIM card when purchasing this plan.

Cost: $70/month

Monthly data allowance: 50GB

Features:

• Unlimited standard national calls and texts
• Unlimited number of standard international calls 
• Satellite messaging when you’re beyond the range of the mobile network and outdoors with a clear view of the sky  
• Earn points to redeem for rewards
• Telstra Device Security protects your device from hackers,scams and online viruses

Why we like it: 

• Offer the largest 5G mobile network in Australia
• No excess data charges
• Leave anytime as there is no lock-in contract
• Switch plans easily to suit your needs
• Uncapped download speeds

Best for: Those who want wide coverage as they study in regions or suburbs.

Optus – Choice Plus Student Plan

With more than 11 million clients as of 2023, Optus is the second-biggest telecom provider in Australia. 98.5% of Australia is coerced by its mobile network. Moreover, through its cooperation with SpaceX, it intends to cover the entire country by 2025.

It offers a special student deal called Choice Plus Student Plan tailored to eligible tertiary students. The plan is packed with tons of benefits for international students.

Cost: $39 for the first 12 months, then $59/month

Monthly data allowance: 200GB 

Features:

• Unlimited standard national calls and texts
• Unlimited number of standard international calls and texts to 35 destinations
• Access to free Perplexity Pro provides advanced research capabilities with top AI models
• Offer bonus 100GB

Why we like it: 

• No lock-in contract
• Data daily for roaming
• No excess data charges
• Fast connection with eSIM

Best for: Those who want long-term value but limited to certain eligible countries.

Dodo – Small Mobile Plan  

Dodo is powered by the Optus 4G and 5G network, covering 98.5% of the country. You can pay all of your expenses with Dodo as they offer gas, electricity, internet and mobile phone contracts.

Although they don’t have a specific plan for students, they encourage you to opt for their Small Mobile Plan. This plan is affordable and has many features that are useful to international students like you.

Cost: $25/month

Monthly data allowance: 25GB

Features:

• Unlimited Data banking
• $100 international call credit
• Unlimited std calls, text & MMS
• $10/1GB daily roaming

Why we like it: 

• No lock-in contract
• No excess data charges
• Support 4G/5G mobile network 
• Assist with transfer your current phone number or create a new one

Best for: Those looking for a cheap yet high-value option

Felix – 25GB SIM Only Mobile Plan

Felix takes pride in being a mobile brand that prioritizes value and benefits both people and the environment. They are the first telco powered by renewable electricity in Australia. Moreover, the provider, which is powered by Vodafone, serves 24 million Australians over the Vodafone 4G/5G mobile network.

Its 25GB SIM only mobile plan offers international students only a SIM card (no mobile device) in addition to a number of features like call, text, and data inclusions.

Cost: $12.50 for the first 3 months, then $25/month

Monthly data allowance:  25GB

Features:

• Unlimited talk and text
• Unlimited data banking
• Access to the 5G network on a compatible device (speed capped at 150Mbps).
• Referral program with a reward of $10 for every signup
• Add-ons such as International Calls and Texts or Roaming

Why we like it: 

• No lock-in contract
• No excess data charges
• Unused data will be added to your data bank every time you renew
• Pause your felix plan for up to 119 days in just a few taps in the felix app
• Contribute to social causes by donating data to plant trees

Best for: Those who only use services within Australia as international inclusions require extra fees. 

Amaysim – UNLIMITED 32GB Mobile Plan

Amaysim specializes in providing a variety of SIM-only mobile plans and functions as mobile virtual network operator on the Optus mobile network. It had more than 1.5 million mobile users as of June 2024.

Only individuals who use their mobile purposes are eligible for the Amaysim’s UNLIMITED 32GB Mobile Plan. If you select a UNLIMITED 32GB Mobile Plan, you will get access to the most popular features of the Amaysim service for a fixed cost without charging you extra.

Cost: $30/month

Monthly data allowance: 32GB

Features:

• Unlimited national talk & text
• Unlimited international talk & text
• Unlimited data banking
• Automatically renews every 28/days
• 4G and 5G download speeds capped at 150Mbps
• Quickly check if your phone is eSIM compatible and activate

Why we like it: 

• No lock-in contract
• No excess data charges
• Roll over unused data so you don’t lose what you don’t use

Best for: Those on a tight budget or who want maximum flexibility.

Boost Mobile – 12 Month Expiry 240GB plan

Boost Mobile makes use of the entire Telstra Prepaid Mobile network. It covers 3 million square kilometers of Australia and 99.7% of the country’s population, which is over 1 million square kilometers more than their closest rival.

With its 12 Month Expiry 240GB plan, you will receive fantastic data inclusions, unlimited national calls and texts and international calls on certain recharges. You can bring your own phone number.

Cost: $300

Monthly data allowance: 290GB on new activations then 240GB on next charge

Features:

• Unlimited standard national calls and texts
• Unlimited standard international calls and texts to 20 selected destinations
• 4G and 5G download speeds capped at 150Mbps

Why we like it: 

• No lock-in contract
• Get access to the biggest Mobile Network in Australia

Best for: Using while you are in Australia only as there is no service outside the country. 

How to Buy & Activate a SIM card for international students in Australia

An Australian SIM card can be purchased online, in a phone store, at a supermarket or convenience store, or at the airport upon arrival. You can even have one mailed to your place (if you have already got there and have an address).

In our opinion, it is best to wait until you arrive in Australia. Then, you can buy one from a phone network store. This will allow the staff to configure your SIM and ensure that it functions properly. You will only need to provide the staff with some basic information, such as your name, passport number and address (even if it is a hotel). Your new SIM will be operational in a few minutes!

In case you purchase one at other places, you will have to activate the SIM card on your own. Here the step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Go to the provider’s activation page or app

• Step 2: Enter the SIM serial number/ activation key

Enter the serial number/ activation key to activate your SIM card

• Step 3: Fill in personal information
• Step 4: Choose a mobile plan
• Step 5: Confirm and activate

International Calling & Roaming

International calling & roaming are the abilities to use the provider’s service outside of Australia without the need to change your SIM. Most providers offer these features but the benefits vary based on the plan you choose.

Here is a quick summary of the international calling & roaming packages offered in each mobile plan we’ve listed above:

	Cost	Features	Speed
Vodafone – Small SIM Only Plans for Students	Included in the package, no extra fees for international calls or texts $5 extra a day for international roaming	Unlimited number of standard international texts Unlimited number of standard international calls to Zone 1 location Use your plan’s included data, calls and texts in over 100 destinations.	Capped at speeds of up to 1.5Mbps, 2Mbps, 10Mbps and 25Mbps
Telstra – Basic SIM Only Plans for Students	Included in the package, no extra fees	Unlimited SMS from Australia to standard international numbers in all destinations. 30 minutes of calls from Australia to any standard overseas number.	Included data has access to uncapped download speeds. Speeds may vary due to location, local conditions, number of other users, hardware and software configuration
Optus – Choice Plus Student Plan	Included in the package, no extra fees for international calls or texts $5 extra a day for international roaming	Unlimited number of standard international calls and texts to 35 destinations	Capped at 5Mbps
Dodo – Small Mobile Plan for Student	$100 international call credit $10/1GB daily roaming	Unlimited std calls, text & MMS Roam in over 100 countries Receive free SMS when you’re visiting one of their 100 eligible  countries	Capped at 150mbps
Felix – 25GB SIM only mobile plan	$5 extra a month for international calls and texts	Unlimited number of standard international calls and texts to selected destinations  No roaming service	Capped at 1.5mbps
Amaysim – UNLIMITED 32GB Mobile Plan	Included in the package, no extra fees for international calls or texts	Unlimited standard calls to 28 Countries  Unlimited SMS/MMS to 42 Countries  No roaming service	Capped at 150mbps
Boost Mobile – 12 Month Expiry 240GB plan	Included in the package, no extra fees for international calls or texts	Unlimited number of standard international calls and texts to selected destinations  No roaming service	Capped at 150mbps

Student-Only Deals & Verification

Some providers offer student-only deals while many don’t. For those that don’t have specific deals for students, they often recommend options that can benefit your student status without any requirements for verification.

On the other hand, those student-tailored plans will require you to verify your student status. This is usually done through 2 ways:

• Your student email address: Several providers utilize this email address issued by your university to confirm your eligibility and activate student plans.
• Student portals: Providers have special student hubs or online portals where you can register and get authenticated to access your deals.

For students successfully verifying, you can enjoy a huge package of benefits and promotions catered to you. 

Money-Saving Tips When Using a SIM Card for International Students in Australia

Mobile plans with student discounts are hard to come by. Nevertheless, there are many carriers who provide affordable mobile plans or deals that help you stay within your budget.

But there are more you can do to save as much money on mobile as you can by following our tips:

• • Choose a plan that offers international inclusions: Free international calls to specific countries are provided by various SIM plans. Though you can use WiFi to chat with family or friends back in your home country through different online platforms, it can be helpful and convenient to have the ability to call back home without the internet. 
  • Go for long-expiry prepaid periods: Although most people are opting for monthly mobile plans, long-term prepaid plans can be a better option. Most SIM plans have one-month (28-30 days) periods but there are also 6 to 12-month choices that may end up being less expensive over time. 

• Purchase a SIM only plan: You don’t need to pay more for a huge data plan if you have access to WiFi most of the time. Even the cheapest SIM plans offer a few gigabytes of internet for you. Taking advantage of the WiFi at home, at work or your university, you can go for a SIM only plan. which costs less.

Conclusion

For an overseas student, an Australian SIM card is a valuable item. You can make sure to always get in touch with your beloved ones back home and make or take calls in various important situations.

Since you have a solid understanding of the telecom market and your SIM card options, you can now pick the best sim card for international students in Australia. By that, you get one step closer to having fun with your study and life over there!

FAQs

1. Are there any discounts available in Australia for student phone plans?

Yes, several providers like Optus or Vodafone offer special plans for students. Though it is rare to find student-only deals, there are cheap yet valuable plans offered by many providers. These plans can also satisfy your needs as an international student in Australia.

2. What factors should you take into account while selecting an Australian SIM card?

Before buying an Australian SIM card, you should take into account the following 5 factors:

• Prepaid, no lock-in contract
• Low monthly fees
• Unlimited call rates 
• Big data package
• Low-cost international inclusions

3. How to top up or recharge your Australian SIM card?

You can recharge your Australian prepaid SIM card in 4 ways:

• Online: This is the most common method. You will be prompted to the provider’s portal where you can purchase more. Simply follow the instructions!
• In-store: You can purchase credit at most supermarkets, convenience stores or the network provider. Get a voucher and follow the steps on the packet to recharge.
• Auto-recharge: Most providers offer an auto-recharge option which you can activate on their online portals. This will automatically recharge an expired or empty SIM card. Just remember to cancel it if you stop using the service.

USSD code: This is a less common way among all. Some providers allow you to recharge via USSD code. 

Last updated on 11/12/2025