Why Subscriptions Matter for Students Abroad
Studying abroad is one of the most exciting opportunities for young people. It offers the chance to meet new friends, travel to popular destinations, and experience a new city. But alongside the excitement comes one of the most frustrating challenges: staying connected without spending too much.
Traditional physical SIM cards from local providers often create problems. They require ID, they come with complicated local plans, and their validity period can be too short for students who stay for longer periods. Many times, students face hidden fees, confusing terms, or poor data coverage. Worse, you may need to buy a new SIM in every country you visit.
This is why cheap esim for students abroad is becoming the standard. With subscription-based eSIM plans, students enjoy affordable prices, predictable costs, strong data coverage, and seamless connectivity across borders.
What is an eSIM Subscription?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a SIM card already built into your phone. Modern devices, including the new iPhone Air, support eSIM technology. Instead of swapping SIM cards, you can activate a plan instantly using a QR code.
A subscription plan takes this further. Instead of topping up weekly, you pay a fixed monthly price for a data plan or unlimited data plan. This makes your data usage predictable and avoids running out of credit when you need it most.
Key features of Firsty's Monthly Plans
Instant activation and easy installation
Works as one eSIM with same plan across multiple countries
Options for unlimited data plans
Ability to receive calls or use apps for calling
Reliable data and strong coverage with no hidden fees
Benefits of Monthly eSIM Subscriptions for International Students
Affordable Prices and Predictable Costs
Students abroad often live on tight budgets. With a subscription plan, you know exactly how much you spend each month. Firsty’s Economy Plan starts at €4.50 for 1.5GB with unlimited phone calls within the Netherlands. This is ideal for students with light data usage who just need messaging, email, and occasional browsing.
Balanced Data and Value
For students who need more flexibility and data but don’t require an unlimited plan, Firsty’s Comfort+ Plan is a great choice. It offers 10GB for €19.50, including all features from the Economy Plan, plus browsing, navigation, and social media access. Comfort+ provides a balanced mix of data and value, perfect for daily use, and you can cancel anytime.
Unlimited Data Options
Some international students need more data for online courses, video calls, or streaming lectures. With unlimited plans, there’s no fear of running out. Firsty’s First Class Plan gives 40GB of high-speed internet, after which speeds are reduced to 512 kbps, so you never lose access. This makes it one of the most flexible options for heavy users.
Flexibility and Freedom
Unlike local SIMs that tie you to contracts or strict validity periods, subscription eSIMs are flexible. You can cancel anytime. This is ideal for longer periods of study or short-term semesters abroad.
Global Plans and International Travel
Whether you’re in Europe, Asia, or the U.S., eSIM subscriptions offer global plans that cover 153+ countries. That means one plan works during international travel, so you don’t need to buy a new SIM in every country.
Reliable Data and Strong Coverage
From Google Maps in a new city to Wi-Fi alternatives in cafes, students need stable connections. With Firsty subscriptions, data coverage is consistent, ensuring you can attend Zoom lectures, upload assignments, or share videos without interruptions.
Comparing Subscriptions vs Prepaid SIM Cards
| Feature | eSIM Subscription | Local / Prepaid SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Process | Easy installation | Requires store visits, ID documents, and activation delays |
| Costs | Affordable prices | Seems cheap at first but requires frequent top-ups, increasing data usage costs |
| Coverage | Includes global eSIM plans with seamless connectivity across borders | Local plans |
| Flexibility | Cancel anytime, change or pause as needed | Rigid contracts and fixed validity periods |
| Security | Cannot be stolen or lost, stays inside your device | Physical SIM card |
Why This Comparison Matters
When international students think about mobile data, many believe that a local SIM is the cheapest option. But in practice, prepaid SIMs often come with restrictions: limited data coverage, short validity, and difficulties when crossing borders.
On the other hand, a cheap esim for students abroad provides affordable prices, reliable data, and the ability to use the same plan in multiple countries. It also eliminates hidden fees, supports strong coverage, and ensures seamless connectivity while traveling abroad.
Economy Plan — Best for Light Users
1.5 GB for €4.50
Data and calling to 153+ countries
Unlimited calls within the Netherlands
Keep your current number
Cancel anytime
Ideal for messaging, emails, and light browsing.
Comfort+ Plan (Most Popular) — Great for Daily Use
10 GB for €19.50
Includes all features from Economy
Perfect for browsing, navigation, and social media
Balanced data and value
Cancel anytime
The best balance for students who use their phone regularly throughout the day.
First Class Plan — Perfect for Heavy Users
Unlimited for €39.50*
Includes all features from Comfort+
Hotspot available
Ideal for streaming and heavy data usage
Cancel anytime
Best for students who rely heavily on mobile data for entertainment, studying, or staying connected.
These plans give students the flexibility to choose according to their data needs, usage habits, and budget. Download the app to instantly explore these monthly plans and subscribe in just a few taps.
Popular Use Cases for Student Subscriptions
Studying Abroad: Reliable for online research, Zoom classes, and submitting assignments.
Traveling Abroad: Keep the same plan in multiple countries, unlike a local SIM.
Video Calls with Family: Smooth internet connection without interruptions.
Exploring a New City: Use maps and translation apps with reliable data.
Entertainment: Stream Netflix, upload TikToks, or join online gaming sessions.
How to Choose the Right Subscription
When comparing eSIM providers, consider the following:
Data usage: Choose a plan based on how much data you need.
Coverage: Look for global plans with wide data coverage in popular destinations.
Pricing: Choose providers with affordable prices and avoid hidden fees.
Flexibility: Ensure the plan can be canceled anytime and is adaptable for longer periods.
FAQ
Can I use the same plan in multiple countries?
Yes. With Firsty, you keep the same plan during international travel, making it easier than switching to a local SIM.
Do subscriptions allow me to receive calls?
Yes. With unlimited phone calls in NL and app-based calling, you can always receive calls.
How does data usage compare with local SIM cards?
Subscriptions provide more predictable data usage and avoid surprise costs. Local plans may seem cheap but often run out quickly.
Which are the best eSIM providers?
While there are other providers, Firsty stands out with affordable prices, clear access to plans, and reliable data coverage for international students.
Conclusion: Stay Connected Smarter with eSIMs for Students
Studying abroad should be about exploring new cities, not stressing over SIM cards. That’s why a cheap eSIM for students abroad is the smartest way to stay online. No shops, no paperwork, no hidden costs, just instant connectivity wherever you land.
With Firsty’s Economy, Comfort+, and First Class plans, you get flexible data that fits your budget and your lifestyle. Stream lectures, call home, share your travels, or find your way across campus, all without worrying about surprise roaming fees.
👉 Forget swapping SIM cards in every country. With Firsty, you’re always connected: unlimited data, reliable coverage, and zero hassle. One app, one eSIM, endless freedom.
