Social Security Numbers

A Social Security Number (SSN) is an identification number that is used primarily for the reporting of wages (income) for people who are authorized to work and for determining eligibility for social security benefits. If you are working on campus, then you will need to apply for a SSN.

Eligibility

International students are eligible for social security numbers only if they have evidence of employment. If you do not have a job, you will not be eligible to apply for a SSN.

You should not need a SSN to open a bank account, rent an apartment etc. Sometimes this can be challenging and the International Center can provide you with some suggestions for how to deal with not having a SSN.

Apply

After you have been offered a job, you will need to apply for a SSN.

  1. Request an employment verification letter from your employer for Social Security. The Social Security office has some specific information for what should be included in the letter. Please provide your employer with this letter request form.
  2. Email your employment verification letter to an International Student Advisor at the International Center. You should receive an email stating that your Social Security Letter is ready for pick up within 1-3 business days.
  3. Take:
    1. Your social security letter from the International Center
    2. Your employment verification letter
    3. Your I-20/DS-2019,
    4. Your passport and visa,
    5. Your I-94 printout or card

to the Grand Forks Social Security office to submit the application for a SSN.

More Information

Grand Forks Social Security Office
402 Demers Ave, Suite 300

Social Security Office website (enter zip code 58201)