Overseas mail can be very slow. It can sometimes take two weeks or more for a letter to arrive at its destination. If you need to send or receive documents faster, most countries have Federal Express (or its equivalent), which will move your letter to or from the U.S. in about 48 hours (allow 4-5 days for delivery to sites in Asia or Africa). Plan on spending at least $30. (Do not send cash through the mail or via Federal Express.)
In most places, email will be available for use. However, it may not be as convenient as in the U.S. and it may not be available immediately when you first arrive. Email is a great way to keep in touch with friends and family back home. But corresponding via email can consume lots of time - remember why you are studying abroad. Friends and family members love to receive postcards and regular mail - request the same method of correspondence.
In most countries, use of the telephone is substantially more expensive than in the U.S. It is much, much cheaper for a call to originate in the U.S. than abroad. In short, persuade your friends and parents to call you and arrange specific times to receive calls. You should get an AT&T, Sprint, or MCI calling card which will permit you to charge calls made to the U.S. at a slightly lower rate than calls to the U.S. generally cost. Such a card will also put you in touch with a U.S. operator and can make calling from overseas much easier than trying to call without one. Another option is an AT&T ACUS or “Call Me” card. This card allows you to call the U.S. from abroad as if the call were coming from the U.S. The calls can be made to one prearranged number (usually your parents). Call 1-800-445-6063 for more information. Also remember that 800 numbers cannot be accessed from abroad. Most companies do provide a collect-call number, but you need to get that before leaving the U.S. In some locations, it is also possible to purchase calling cards with set amounts programmed into them. This can be one of the most economical options for calling home. Renting a cell phone may also be an option. Be sure to check your site specific orientation materials or check with your resident director or on-site study abroad office.
At most study sites, you will be living in a different time zone. This is important to remember when making international phone calls, or when having friends and family call you.
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