Obtaining a Social Security Number

To issue a Social Security number, the Social Security Administration requires evidence that you:

• Are eligible to work in the U.S.
• Are a full-time student
• Have received a formal offer of on-campus employment, OR
• Have been authorized for off-campus employment through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

A Social Security number is not required to obtain a driver’s license, cell phone, credit card, insurance, admission to an academic institution or other “non-work” reasons. The Social Security Administration must also verify your immigration documents and status with Immigration before issuing the Social Security number.

Step 1: Internal (Elmhurst University) Process

1. Log in to the myElmhurst Portal and select the Etrieve app.
   • If you need assistance accessing Etrieve, review our Knowledge Base article
2. Access, complete, and submit the F-1 SSN DSO Support Letter Request.
   • Attach your Elmhurst University Hiring Manager/Supervisor “Employer Letter”.
     • The “Employer Letter” must be completed by your Elmhurst University Hiring Manager/Supervisor, signed in ink, scanned, and uploaded.
3. Once received, ISS will issue your DSO SSN Support Letter for your SSN application (Step 2).

STEP 2: External (Social Security Administration) Process:

1. Complete an Online SSN Application
   • Complete form and “Submit Application Package”
   • Alternatively, you can complete the Form SS-5 instead of the online application if preferred
2. Schedule your SSN Appointment
   • You will be prompted to schedule your appt. online once you submit the SSN application
   • Alternatively, you can contact your local SSA office to schedule an appointment
3. Gather your immigration documentation as evidence:
   • Passport
   • F-1 Visa
   • I-20
   • I-94
   • Employment specific documents (documents based on your employment reason for applying):
     • On-Campus Job Offer:
       • Hiring Manager/Supervisor “Employer Letter”
       • DSO SSN Support Letter
     • Authorized CPT
       • CPT Approved I-20
     • OPT (Request/Approved)
       • Historically, the SSN application has been built into the I-765 (OPT application). However, if you do not receive an SSN upon OPT Approval you can apply at your local SSA with the above documents and your OPT Approved I-20.
4. If all goes well, you should be approved and receive your SSN in the mail.
   • The process typically 3-4 weeks. If you believe there is a delay you can reach out to the SSA office at which you applied to inquire about the status of your SSN application.
5. Afterward, submit your SSN and any outstanding hiring documents to SFS.

• Social Security Numbers for Noncitizens
• Form SS-5 (Applications for a Social Security Card)
• SSN Employer Letter Fillable PDF