Social Security
Your Social Security Number
A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA), a U.S. government agency. An SSN is primarily used for employment and to report your earnings to the U.S. government. International students do not need an SSN simply because they are studying in the United States. However, if you are authorized to work, such as through On-Campus Employment or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), you may be eligible to apply for an SSN.
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.
If you have obtained on-campus employment or CPT, you can request an SSN support letter and your employment authorization documentation through the ISSS portal. Once you receive these documents, you can apply for an SSN through your local Social Security Administration (SSA) Office.
When applying, you will generally need to bring:
- At least two documents that establish your age and identity (for example, a valid passport, driver’s license, or other acceptable identification)
- Your Form I-20 or DS-2019
- Your Form I-94
- A completed SSN application (Form SS-5)
- Your SSN support letter and employment-related documentation
When can I apply for an SSN?
You may apply for an SSN if:
- You have authorized employment (On-Campus Employment or CPT)
- Your SEVIS record is ACTIVE
IMPORTANT: 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.
An SSN is issued only by the Social Security Administration. FIU does not issue Social Security Numbers or Social Security cards.