Social Security Application

Why Do I Need One?

You must apply for a Social Security number to be employed in the U.S. and receive other government services. Generally, you do not often need to present your Social Security card except to employers and banks. Do NOT carry your card with you. Keep it in a safe place with your other important papers.

Apply for a Social Security Card

All International Students who are planning to work and do not already have a Social Security number will need to apply for a Social Security Card.

You must possess a Social Security Number (included in the Social Security Card) or have applied for a Social Security Number prior to the start of your employment.

To apply for a Social Security Number, you must apply in-person to one of the local Social Security Offices with a completed application for a Social Security Card online.

Apple for your Social Security Application online  

You must bring the following documents to apply for a Social Security Card at the Social Security Administration office.

  • Passport
  • Visa
  • I-20 or DS-2019
  • I-94
  • An employment offer letter.

After You Receive Your Social Security Card

A Social Security Number is ordinarily issue to you within four to six weeks after the application is submitted. 

When you receive a Social Security Number, present your Social Security card to Human Resources (faculty/staff) or Student Employment Office in HR (students). You must enter your Social Security number into your GLACIER record. Print and sign your GLACIER forms and upload to GLACIER. Place your Social Security Card in a safe place. Do not carry it with you.

Keep your Social Security Number safe!

Keep your social security card and any documents that show your social security number in a safe place. Do NOT carry them with you. Do not laminate the card.

Your social security number is confidential. Always be careful when someone asks for your SSN. Your SSN is generally need for your employer or bank account.  You should ask why your number is needed, how it will be used and what will happen if you refuse. The answers to these questions can help you decide whether you want to give out your social security number or not. Phishing scams to obtain your social security number are common in order to steal a person’s identity.

To get to the Social Security office: 

After International Student Arrival Day, there may be transportation to Social Security Administration within several days provided by the International Student and Scholar Advising office. You may sign up for the trip.

Please go the to the Social Security Administration Office located where you live.

If you live in Bryn Mawr, the nearest SSA office is at 1700 Markley Avenue, Norristown, PA  19401

If you live in Philadelphia the nearest SSA office is, 

Social Security Administration's Philadelphia Office 2 Penn Center, Suite 200A 1500 JFK Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19102.