Getting a UK SIM card
Quick start- What do you need to know?
If you are moving to the UK from overseas, you may need a UK SIM card for a local phone number to use some services in the UK such as:
- Registering with a GP
- Online shopping from UK supermarkets
- Providing to UK employers or organisations, if you are considering part time jobs, internship or volunteering
- Accessing UK services
Before you depart for the UK
If you plan to bring a mobile phone to the UK on an international contract, you could run up large charges due to using data overseas. Make sure that you check with your network provider and disable data roaming when you arrive in the UK to avoid running up large charges on your existing plan.
Consider getting a UK SIM before you fly
If possible, we recommend that you get a UK SIM card with a Data Pass or UK Data Roaming Plan before you fly. This is so that you have internet and can make calls straight away when you land.
Some companies allow you to purchase their deals online and have the physical SIM Card sent to your overseas address, or you can purchase an e-Sim Card if your phone supports it. Providers such as GiffGaff, ID Mobile, Lebara, O2, Vodafone, Three all offer eSIMs you can set up the moment you land.
Some overseas Visa Application Centres (or other organisations) may also offer physical UK SIM cards that you can activate on arrival.
If you cannot obtain a UK SIM before you fly, do not worry. Many major UK airports provide free wifi. If you are planning to take the National Express bus to Coventry, there is normally free wifi on the bus as well.
SIM Lock
Some operators lock the handset to their network so that it can't be used with another provider's SIM card. In the UK, this usually happens if you get a free phone by taking out a fixed-term contract and make monthly re-payment.
Watch this video Link opens in a new windowto check if your phone is locked. If it is locked, you may need to contact your current network provider in your home country.
UK emergency numbers
Anyone can call 999 during an emergency in the UK, or 112 (the standard European emergency number).
You can use a phone with an international SIM or e-SIM to call 999 or 112 in an emergency. However, if the SIM is not connected to a UK mobile network or cannot receive calls in the UK, the emergency services may not be able to contact you again if the call ends.
Once you arrive
Keep your Student Records up to date
Once you have completed course registrationLink opens in a new window, you need to keep your contact details up to date.
This means when you have a new UK phone number (including every time you change number), remember to update your Student Records Online Link opens in a new windowas soon as possible.
Getting a free SIM card on campus
From 22 September 2026, our friendly student ambassadors will hand out free SIM cards in the International Student Hub (Ground floor, Rootes Building) - this is also where you attend the 'Right to study' check appointment.
They will be there throughout the Welcome Week.
Student discounts
Many providers offer student discounts on their fixed-term contract, monthly rolling plans, or pre-paid plans (pay-as-you-go).
This could either be by providing your University of Warwick email address, or specific codes from student discount websites and apps such as UniDays or Student Beans.
Buying a SIM card on arrival
Most UK airports offer pre-paid SIM cards, although they may be more expensive.
Once you arrive on campus, you can also buy a UK SIM card from grocery stores such as Co-op and Tesco. It's a good idea to have a look around and search for the best SIM deals.
There are many mobile network providers in the UK, and we hope this comparison site can help you decide which service suits you the most.