How to apply for a Social Security Number
To work in the United States, it is necessary to have a Social Security Number (SSN). Please visit this website for information about applying for a Social Security Number.
If you are a new student, you must have attended your required Arrival Check-In session with your International Advisor to be activated in SEVIS before applying for a Social Security Number.
Step 1: Collect your Documents
- Your immigration documents - (The Social Security Administration accepts original Documents only! Copies will not be accepted. Any documents with electronic signatures will also not be accepted.)
- Passport and visa
- I-94 record
- Updated I-20 for F-1 students or DS-2019 for J-1 students (Cannot be your initial enrollment I-20)
- Letters
- Letter 1: from your hiring department/company
- The employment letter must state your employer's "EIN" (Employer Identification Number).
- If your job is on campus, NDSU's EIN is: 45-6002439.
- The letter must also state your name, position title, pay, and hours per week.
- If your job is on campus, you can download this employment letter template for your department to fill out.
- The employment letter must state your employer's "EIN" (Employer Identification Number).
- Letter 2: from ISSAS
- Request the letter through this DocuSign form.
- ISSAS will email you when the letter is ready for pickup.
- Processing time varies.
- Letter 1: from your hiring department/company
Step 2: Complete the SSN Application Online
- Start your application here.
- When you submit your application, a link will appear to schedule an appointment.
Step 3: Go to the Social Security Administration Office
The office is located in the Federal Building. The address is: 657 2nd Ave N # 320, Fargo, ND 58102
New Social Security Number applications are appointment only
Important Notes
- There is no fee charged for obtaining a SSN.
- The average length of time it takes to receive the card is four to six weeks.
- You will not be able to receive a paycheck from NDSU until activated in SEVIS.
- Be careful when using your Social Security card. Treat the number as carefully as you would treat a credit card number. Keep it in a safe place and do not share the number with anyone.