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Social Security Number

What is a Social Security Number (SSN)?

SSN is a personal identification number assigned to U.S. people when they begin to work.  The purpose of the SSN is to collect retirement taxes for U.S. qualified workers.  International students are not eligible for a social security number until they have a job.  You may be asked for your SSN repeated in the United States to rent an apartment, or get a cell phone or purchase car insurance.  If you do not have a job, you will tell people you are an international student and not able to get a social security number.   

When can an international student apply for a social security number?

  • When offered an on-campus job
  • When applying for working permission such as optional practical training or curricular practical training

How to apply for a Social Security Number:

STEP 1

Request a verification letter from the International Office.  Click the Applying for Social Security Number (need proof of on campus job offer) Reason: write down the department you will be working for, your work supervisor’s name, and supervisor contact phone number. 

STEP 2:

Complete an online application – once you submit, you have 45 days to visit your local SSA Office to complete the application.

  1. Application: https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/

Guide to filling out the online application.

  1. 18 years of age – yes or no
  2. US Citizen – No
  3. Do you have a US mailing address  – yes
  4. Are you applying for – yourself
  5. What do you need?  – Get a social security number for the first time

Once you submit your application, you will receive a pop on the screen with a link for an appointment AND they send an e-mail with the link also.  Schedule an appointment with the San Marcos Social Security Administration Building, then go to in person to complete the process.  If you do not live in San Marcos (92078/92069/92096), please check for your local office here: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

STEP 3

Go to Social Security Administration Office in person with appointment (You must schedule an appointment- you will be prompted to do so in Step A)

  1. Your official SEVIS I-20
  2. Passport and visa
  3. I-94 printed
  4. Letter from the International Office explaining your work permission

*This information is outlined on their website: https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/ss5doc.htm (click: Adult, Original, Nonresident)

Local Office – San Marcos SSA Office Address:  367 Via Vera Cruz, San Marcos, CA 92078

If you do not live in San Marcos (92078/92069/92096), please check for your local office here: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp