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Obtaining A Social Security Number

What is a Social Security Number?

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique, 9-digit number used for taxpayer identification, income reporting, and record-keeping purposes. Once issued, the number is valid for life. Keep it safe and provide only as needed to U.S. government agencies or credible financial institutions. The SSN is required in order to be paid for any work done in the U.S. whether on-campus employment or off-campus internship (practical training).

Eligibility

International students holding a non-immigrant F-1 or J-1 student visa who have secured a paid position in the U.S. are eligible for an SSN.

Who Can Apply?

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When to Apply

  • The application for an SSN must be made before your on-campus job begins.
  • You may not apply earlier than 30 days before your work begin date if you are doing on-campus work or CPT.
  • Once you’ve submitted your application you should receive your SSN within 2-4 weeks.
  • OPT applicants have the option to apply for a SSN at the same time they apply for EAD.

How to Apply

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When on OPT

March 18, 2025: Pause on Processing SSNs through Form I-765:

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is no longer automatically issuing Social Security Numbers (SSNs) based on Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications. As of March 18, 2025, SSA has paused Enumeration-Beyond-Entry (EBE) processing for noncitizens approved for work authroization through USCIS' Form I-765. The EBE process previously allowed applicants to request an SSN when filing Form I-765.

If your SSN was not processed before March 18, 2025, you must now:

  1. Apply online for an SSN
  2. Schedule an in-person appointment after completing the online application.
    • Appointment availability may be limited, with wait times of four weeks or more.
    • SSN cards typically arrive about two weeks after the in-person appointment.
    • The in-person visit must occur within 45 days of submitting the online application, and no more than 30 days before the start date on your EAD.

Even though there's currently a pause on EBE processing, we recommend you still select ‘Yes’ on the Form I-765 to apply for an SSN in case the hold is lifted while your application is pending.

Please note, if you obtained an SSN prior to applying for OPT, you do NOT need to reapply.

Lost Your Social Security Number?

It is important to protect your SSN and be aware of identity theft (PDF). If you lose your SSN card you will need to replace your card. You can only apply for a replacement card if you are authorized to work off-campus or have an on-campus job.

Creating an Online Account

Students with a Social Security Number (SSN) can sign up for a personal my Social Security account to monitor earnings. For more information, please refer to the How to Create an Online Account fact sheet (PDF).

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