Social Security Numbers (SSN) for F-1 Students
F-1 international students are eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) only for employment purposes. You must provide documentation to the Social Security Administration (SSA) showing that you have been offered employment—either on-campus or through authorized off-campus work (e.g., CPT or OPT).
Important: You must apply for an SSN in person at a Social Security Office. Appointments are required.
Make an appointment with the Social Security Administration here.
On-Campus Employment & CPT
If you have been offered on-campus employment or have Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization, you must bring the following to your SSN appointment:
Required Documents:
- Letter from your employer (see [sample letter] below)
- Letter from your DSO
- To obtain this, share your employer letter with your DSO
- Completed SSN application (Form SS-5) – See form below
- Valid passport
- Current I-94 – Retrieve your I-94 below
- Current I-20 with wet signature
- Must be recently issued (within 30 days)
- For CPT: your I-20 must show CPT authorization on page 2
Note: The Pomona Social Security Office requires a recently signed I-20. Make sure your I-20 has a wet signature from your DSO.
Other Off-Campus Employment
Important! If you are working off-campus under CPT or other authorized employment, you must apply for your SSN within 30 days of your employment start date.
OPT or Severe Economic Hardship
If you are working under Optional Practical Training (OPT) or have received employment authorization due to severe economic hardship, you will need the following:
Required Documents:
- Letter from your employer (see [sample letter] below)
- Letter from your International Student Advisor
- Provide your employer letter to your DSO so they can prepare this
- Completed SSN application (Form SS-5) – See form below
- Valid passport
- Current I-94 – Retrieve your I-94 below
- Current I-20 with OPT recommendation and wet signature from your DSO
- Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card)
Helpful Links and Forms
Find the Social Security Office
SS-5 Form – Application for Social Security Card
Sample Employer Letter for Social Security
Need Help?
Contact your International Student Services for:
- Guidance on how to prepare your SSN application
- Letters verifying your employment authorization
- Questions about SSN eligibility and timelines