Social Security Number Documentation Requirements

In order to apply for a social security card, F-1 students must provide proof of employment to the Social Security Administration. F-1 students must show authorization to work if granted On-Campus Employment, Curricular Practical Training, Optional Practical Training, or Economic Hardship. Once you meet these requirements, print and complete the application for a Social Security Card (https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf) and apply in person at your nearest Social Security Administration office. 

Students who work on-campus:

If your first U.S. job is on-campus, you will need to show proof of employment. 

  • Secure an authorized student employment position.
  • Obtain an employment letter from the hiring department.
    • On Campus Hourly Employment: Your employer or your immediate supervisor must print and sign the offer letter. This offer letter can be printed from the UNT Dynamic Forms if your department uses e-forms. Electronic signatures are not accepted. 
    • On Campus Non-Hourly Employment or Employment by Barnes and Noble: Employer must complete the employer verification letter. Letter must be printed on the employer’s letterhead. Employer must sign letter. Signature stamps will not be accepted.
  • Obtain a Work Authorization Letter and Signature from International Student and Scholar Services.
    • Complete the Social Security Number Letter Request via iNorthTX.
    • Please note: If you are a newly admitted student, your SEVIS record must be registered in SEVIS with the university. We recommend waiting at least 3 to 5 business days after receiving your work authorization letter from ISSS before attempting to apply for your SSN. 
  • Apply for a Social Security Number.
    • Take the original letter(s) to the Social Security Administration office, along with your passport, visa, I-94 card, and I-20.
    • Please note: Request a receipt indicating that you have applied for the SSN. Once your request is processed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), your card will be sent to you via USPS mail.
  • Once you receive your original SSN card, you must update your SSN with UNT System Human Resources as soon as possible.
    • You must present your original card in person at the following address: 
Students on Curricular Practical Training:

If your first U.S. job is on CPT, you are not required to produce a job offer letter. An I-20 issued for CPT will serve as proof of employment eligibility.

Students on Optional Practical Training:

If your first U.S. job is on OPT, you are not required to produce a job offer letter. An OPT I-20 and an OPT Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card will serve as proof of employment eligibility.