Social Security Number for International Students
Related topics:
Getting a Social Security Number (SSN)
Sample Employment Verification Letter
If you are a J-1 scholar, this information does not apply to you. Please review the J-1 scholar information on how to apply for a Social Security Number.
The Social Security Number (SSN) is needed when employers report wages to the government. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue a Social Security Number (SSN), upon request, to international students for employment purposes only.
Always keep your SSN in a safe and secure location and do not provide it unless required.
An SSN is not necessary for:
- Establishing a bank account
- Renting an apartment
- Opening a cell phone account
Note: If you encounter a person who insists that you provide an SSN in the above instances, please have them contact ISSA, so we can advocate on your behalf.
When you apply for an SSN, you will need to provide proof of employment.
- On-campus employment for jobs with Penn State:
- F-1 Students must provide evidence of on-campus employment from the campus department and verification of enrollment status from ISSA.
- J-1 students must provide evidence of employment eligibility from the sponsor:
- If Penn State issued the DS-2019, ISSA will issue the letter.
- If a programming agency, such as IIE or AMIDEAST, issued the DS-2019, that agency must issue the letter.
- Off-campus employment:
- Your off-campus employment offer letter serves as proof of employment.
- CPT I-20 or employment authorization document (EAD) card
Step 1: Gather the necessary documents for your SSA appointment:
- Original I-20 or DS-2019
- Original passport
- Most Recent I-94 arrival record
- On-campus jobs with Penn State:
- Letter from ISSA verifying enrollment and immigration status. Request this through via iStart > Letter Requests > Social Security.
- Letter from the on-campus employer on letterhead
- Off-campus employment:
- Your off-campus employment offer letter serves as proof of employment.
- CPT I-20 or employment authorization document (EAD) card
Step 2: Submit your SSN application online
Step 3: Copy/screenshot the Online Control Number on the Social Security Administration (SSA) site once your application is complete.
Step 4: Schedule an appointment with the SSA Office via the online SSN application.
Step 5: Visit the SSA Office with all your printed documents.
Note: Be sure to have the SSA application control number with you (see step 3).
Local Social Security Administration Office (ask your Campus Contact for the nearest office):
University Park/State College area:
901 University Drive, Suite 2
State College, PA 16801
(814) 238-5035
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 9 AM – 3 PM
Wednesday 9 AM - 12 NOON
Federal Holidays and Other Closings
Other Penn State Campuses:
Find a Social Security Administration Office close to your campus
Dear Social Security Administration:
This letter is evidence of on-campus employment for (name of student).
Type of job: ____ (e.g. wait staff, library aide, research assistant, etc.)
Start Date: _____
Number of Hours Per Week: _____
Employer Identification Number (EIN): 24-6000376
Employer Telephone Number: _____
Student's Immediate Supervisor: _____
Employer Signature (Original Signature; no photocopy): _____
Signatory's Name and Title: _____
Date:_____
