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Having a Social Security Number (SSN) is necessary when you're employed in the United States. It's used to track your earnings and future Social Security benefits. This guide will outline the requirements for obtaining an SSN based on different employment options. Review the details below to understand what documents you'll need to provide. 

On-Campus Positions Through JobX

Before you can request an SSN application, you must first apply through JobX (located in the SharkLink portal). Once your supervisor hires you, they'll electronically confirm your I-9 with Human Resources. Student Employment will then contact you to submit the following documents in person to NSU's One-Stop Shop:

• Unexpired Passport
• Printed and Signed I-20 Form
• Printed I-9 Form

After submitting your documents to the One-Stop Shop, Student Employment will process them and send you an email for pickup. This email includes a letter for the Social Security Office. You will need to have this letter signed by a Designated School Official (DSO) in the Office of International Affairs before making an appointment with the Social Security Office. 

You will need to bring the following documents to your Social Security Office appointment:

• Signed SSN Request Letter
• Signed SEVIS Activated I-20
• Valid Passport with Visa
• I-94 Document
• Completed SSN Application

If you do not receive your SSN Request Letter, email studentemployment@nova.edu. 

On-Campus Positions Not Through JobX

For on-campus positions outside JobX (research assistants, Chartwells, bookstore, etc.), you will need to provide the Office of International Affairs with evidence of employment (a job offer on NSU letterhead from your employer). Please ensure your employer includes:

• Your Full Name and Student ID
• Job Title
• Number of Weekly Hours
• Employer's Name and Contact Information
• Employer's Signature

The Office of International Affairs will email you when your SSN Request Letter is ready for pickup. Ensure your letter has been signed by a Designated School Official (DSO) in the Office of International Affairs before making an appointment with the Social Security Office. 

You will need to bring the following documents to your Social Security Office appointment:

• Signed SSN Request Letter
• Signed Job Offer Letter
• Signed SEVIS Activated I-20
• Valid Passport with Visa
• I-94 Document
• Completed SSN Application

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Positions

Once you have been approved for a CPT position, you will need to provide the Office of International Affairs with the approved CPT application packet and evidence of employment (a job offer on NSU letterhead from your employer). Please ensure your employer includes:

• Your Full Name and Student ID
• Job Title
• Number of Weekly Hours
• Employer's Name and Contact Information
• Employer's Signature

The Office of International Affairs will email you when your CPT Authorized I-20 i ready for pickup. You will need to bring the following documents to your Social Security Office appointment:

• Signed Job Offer Letter
• Signed SEVIS Activated CPT Authorized I-20
• Valid Passport with Visa
• I-94 Document
• Completed SSN Application

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Positions

When you are applying for OPT on the I-765, there will be a place to indicate that you are requesting a SSN. 

Learn More About the OPT Process

Locate a Social Security Office

You can locate your nearest Social Security Office, check the status on your application, and find answers to many of your questions online. 

Social Security Office Locator