Life As An International Duck
Incoming Student Handbook
Telephone Services
Making calls in the U.S. is confusing! A U.S. telephone number has 10 digits. The first 3 digits is called the “area code” and the last 7 digits is the “number.”
| type of call | how to call |
|---|---|
| Life-Threatening Emergency |
911 This is the national emergency number for police, ambulance services, and fire department. |
|
Crimes, Suspicious or Urgent Situations on Campus |
541-346-2919 If you are on campus, this is the UO Police dispatch number (24 hours). Save on your cell phone. |
|
Directory Assistance |
411 An operator will give you phone numbers for people and businesses. There is a $1.25 fee. |
|
Calling Outside the U.S. |
011 + country code + city code + phone number See below for “collect calls.” |
|
Calling Inside the U.S. |
1 + three digit area code + seven digit phone number |
|
Calling an On-Campus Number |
Call only the last five digits of the phone number For example, the number for the ISSS office is 541-346- 3206, so you would dial 6-3206. |
|
National Suicide Prevention Hotline |
988 This is a national network of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential emotional support to people in emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. |
Mobile Phones
Since you may already have a mobile phone in your home country, you will need to inquire about its use in the U.S. Many companies have international plans. However, it may be more economical to purchase a new phone after you arrive here. Major cell phone companies include: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, MetroPCS, and Sprint.
Some cell phone companies in the U.S. require that you have a Social Security Number (SSN) to purchase a service plan. If you don't have an SSN immediately, ask the cell phone companies about service plans that do not require a SSN, or you may be able to pay a large cash deposit.
CampusSIMs is a mobile phone service designed for international students studying in the United States. Their mobile app allows customers to get their phone registered anywhere they have WIFI and have an American phone number the moment they arrive to the United States. All plans are no contract with no activation or cancellation fees. We will have SIM cards available at International Student Orientation.