Social Security Numbers
About
A Social Security Number or SSN is a nine-digit number that is used to track your income and other wages earned. Social Security Numbers are issued to international students for work purposes only. Once you have secured employment in the U.S., you will be eligible to apply for an SSN. Without an offer of employment, you will not be eligible to apply.
Keep your Social Security Card in a safe place - DO NOT carry it in your wallet. The SSN is assigned to you for life and can be used to apply for credit in the U.S. To avoid having your SSN used for fradulant activity, do not give it out over the phone or to people or agencies that you are not familiar with.
How to Apply
You will need to take the following documents with you to any Social Security Administration Office:
- Valid passport
- Valid I-20 or DS-2019
- Most recent I-94
- Job offer letter
- Completed application for a Social Security Card (SS-5)
- Letter of Support from the Center for International Programs (for on-campus jobs only)