Your Social Security Number (SSN):
An SSN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) for employment and earnings reporting purposes. You do not need an SSN simply because you are studying in the United States. You may be eligible if you have authorized employment and meet the applicable requirements.
When Can I Apply for an SSN?
- You have authorized employment, such as on-campus employment or CPT
- Your SEVIS record is ACTIVE
- If you are a new student, your SEVIS record will become Active after you complete the ISSS required check-in process and your check-in is approved.
How to Get Started:
If you have authorized on-campus employment or CPT, follow the steps below to request your SSN support documents and apply for your Social Security Number.
- Obtain Authorized EmploymentHave your on-campus employment or CPT authorization in place
- Request Your DocumentsSubmit your request through the ISSS Portal
- Receive Your DocumentsReceive your SSN support letter and employment documentation
Apply for Your SSN
Apply at your local Social Security Administration Office
When applying for an SSN, you will generally need to bring:
Identification documents establishing age and identity (e.g., passport, driver's license, or other acceptable identification)
Form I-20 or DS-2019, as applicable
Form I-94
Completed Form SS-5
SSN support letter and employment-related documentation
Important
At FIU, you will receive a 7-digit Panther ID number. Your Panther ID is your university identification number and is not a Social Security Number and cannot be used in place of an SSN for employment or other purposes that require an SSN. An SSN is issued only by the Social Security Administration.Helpful Resources
- Social Security AdministrationOfficial information about Social Security Numbers, eligibility, and applications