How to apply for a Social Security Number

To work in the United States, it is necessary to have a Social Security Number (SSN). Please visit this website for information about applying for a Social Security Number.

If you are a new student, you must have attended your required arrival check-In session with your International Advisor to be activated in SEVIS 1st. Then you must wait 10 days after that before you can apply for a SSN#.

Step 1: Collect your Documents

• Your immigration documents - physical copies
  • Passport and visa
  • I-94 record
  • I-20 for F-1 students or DS-2019 for J-1 students
• Letters
  • Letter 1: from your hiring department/company
    • The employment letter must state your employer's "EIN" (Employer Identification Number).
      • If your job is on campus, NDSU's EIN is: 45-6002439.
    • The letter must also state your name, position title, pay, and hours per week.
      • If your job is on campus, you can download this employment letter template for your department to fill out.
  • Letter 2: from ISSAS
    • Request the letter through this DocuSign form.
    • ISSAS will email you when the letter is ready for pickup.
    • Processing time varies.

Step 2: Complete the SSN Application Online

• Start your application here.
• When you submit your application, a link will appear to schedule an appointment. Be sure to schedule for at least 10 days after reporting your arrival to ISSAS.
  • For example, if you do your arrival in-take session on August 15, you can schedule your appointment on or after August 25.

Step 3: Go to the Social Security Administration Office

The office is located in the Federal Building. The address is: 657 2nd Ave N # 320, Fargo, ND 58102

Check office hours before visiting: https://www.ssa.gov/locator/

Important Notes

• According to current regulations, F-1 or J-1 students must have an employment letter (job offer letter or assistantship letter) for employment in order to apply for a SSN (dependents are not eligible unless you are a J-2 with work authorization).
• There is no fee charged for obtaining a SSN.
• The average length of time it takes to receive the card is four to six weeks.
• You will not be able to receive a paycheck from NDSU until activated in SEVIS.
• Be careful when using your Social Security card. Treat the number as carefully as you would treat a credit card number. Keep it in a safe place and do not share the number with anyone.