How to Get a Social Security Number as an F-1 or J-1 Student
A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit number used by the U.S. government to track income and taxes. As an international student on an F-1 or J-1 visa, you may need an SSN if you plan to work legally in the U.S. You do not need a SSN to apply for most private education loans.
This guide explains who is eligible for an SSN, how to apply and what documents you need to bring. If you’re not eligible, we’ll also cover what alternatives you can use.
Who needs a Social Security number?
You only need an SSN if you’re authorized to work in the U.S. For international students, that usually means one of the following:
- You have an on-campus job
- You have CPT (curricular practical training) authorization
- You have OPT (optional practical training) approval
- You’re a J-1 student with work authorization from your program sponsor
If you do not plan to work, you don’t need an SSN. You can still open a bank account, sign a lease and get a phone plan using other forms of ID.
Can F-1 students get a Social Security number?
Yes, but only if you have an approved job or training opportunity. You cannot apply for an SSN just because you are an F-1 student. You must show proof of employment or work authorization.
Acceptable work includes:
- Part-time on-campus jobs (library, dining hall, research assistant)
- Off-campus internships through CPT
- Full-time OPT after graduation
Your school’s designated school official (DSO) must authorize the work and help you gather the right paperwork.
Can J-1 students get a Social Security number?
Yes. J-1 students can apply for an SSN if their DS-2019 form shows work authorization. This includes:
- On-campus jobs
- Academic training
- Internships or research positions
Your J-1 sponsor must confirm your work eligibility before you apply.
How to apply for a Social Security number
Once you’re eligible, follow these steps:
- Get a job offer letter from your employer (if required).
- Ask your DSO or J-1 sponsor for a work authorization letter.
- Wait at least 10 days after arriving in the U.S. to apply, so your immigration records can update.
- Visit a Social Security office in person with the required documents.
You don’t need to pay a fee to apply. Processing times vary but usually take two to four weeks.
What documents should you bring?
Bring the following items to your appointment:
- Passport
- F-1 or J-1 visa
- I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1)
- I-94 arrival record (printed from the CBP website)
- Job offer letter (if applicable)
- Work authorization letter from your DSO or J-1 sponsor
- Completed SSN application form (Form SS-5)
Always bring original documents, not photocopies. The Social Security officer may ask follow-up questions about your program or job.
What if you are not eligible for an SSN?
If you’re not working and don’t qualify for an SSN, you can still:
- Use your passport and I-20 or DS-2019 to open a bank account
- Sign a lease or utility agreement with your student ID and visa
- Get a mobile phone plan using alternative forms of ID
- Apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if needed for tax purposes
Many systems in the U.S. are used to working with international students and will accept alternative documents.
How MPOWER Financing can support your financial setup
If you’re applying for an SSN to support a legal job or an international student internship, you’re likely thinking about your finances, too. MPOWER Financing offers no-cosigner student loans for J-1, F-1 and DACA students, so you can fund your education without relying on work to pay your bills.
MPOWER loans help you:
- Cover tuition and living costs while staying visa compliant
- Avoid overworking or violating your J-1 or F-1 employment limits
- Receive fast, transparent funding without needing U.S. credit history
Many students use MPOWER to reduce their financial stress and focus on academics, whether they are eligible for an SSN or not.
Get your SSN the right way
Although a SSN is not part of U.S. student visa requirements, an SSN is an important piece of your U.S. identity if you’re working legally while studying. Make sure you understand the requirements, gather the right documents and follow the process step by step.
If you’re unsure, talk to your school’s international student office or visit your nearest Social Security office for guidance.
