Applying for a Social Security Number
If you are an international student holding F-1 status or an exchange student holding J-1 status, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will only issue a social security card to you for purposes of employment. This means that students and scholars must show the Social Security Administration documentation that they have on-campus employment (unless they have been authorized for other off-campus employment). The SSA will not issue a Social Security card in order for you to open a bank account, rent an apartment, apply for a driver’s license, or sign up for cell phone service. Check the I-Place User-Friendly Bus Guide to see how you can take the bus to the the Social Security Office to apply for your social security card. The closest office is 960 West Mission Blvd. in Pomona, or use the Local Office Search on the SSA website.
 
 

On Campus Employment

If you hold F-1 or J-1 student status and have an on-campus job (or an offer of an on-campus job), you need to apply for a social security number as soon as possible. To apply, you will need:

Off-Campus Employment

Curricular Practical Training

If you are an F-1 student and have been approved for Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and you do not already have a social security number, you need to bring the following to the Social Security Administration:

Optional Practical Training or Employment Authorization for Severe Economic Hardship

If you are an F-1 student and have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Optional Practical Training or for Severe Economic Hardship, you need to bring the following to the Social Security Administration:

  • A completed Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5) - available online or at I-Place
  • Your valid passport
  • Your current I-94
  • Your current Form I-20
  • Your EAD
  • Student ID
  • Any other form of ID you have might be helpful

Academic Training for J-1 Students

If you are a J-1 student and have been approved for Academic Training, and you do not already have a social security number, you need to bring the following to the Social Security Administration:

  • A completed Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5) - available online or at I-Place
  • Your valid passport
  • Your current I-94
  • Your current Form DS-2019
  • The letter from your Responsible Officer authorizing you for Academic Training
  • A recent pay stub or letter from your employer offering you employment (see Sample Letter)
  • Student ID
  • Any other form of ID you have might be helpful