Social Security Information for International Students
A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is essential for F-1 and M-1 students who have received employment authorization from USCIS. The SSN is used to track wages, Social Security benefits, and for identification purposes. You need an SSN if you plan to work in the United States.
ORU Work Requirement
To work on campus, you must have applied for a Social Security card. You can start working once you have submitted your Social Security receipt to the Student Employment Office. As an international student, you must provide a copy of your Social Security card within 45 days of receiving the receipt. It typically takes two weeks from the appointment date to receive your card. Once you have it, be sure to submit it immediately. If you haven’t received your card after two weeks, please reach out to the Student Employment Office at studentemployment@oru.edu.
How to Get a Social Security Card for Employment
- Request a Letter from ISR
- Stop by the International Student Relations (ISR) Office to request a letter confirming your employment, or complete this form.
- Schedule an Appointment
- Set up an appointment with the Social Security Office. Appointments can be made online or by phone. Be sure to mention that you are an international student applying for an SSN for the first time. Note: Appointments are generally scheduled a week out, and the wait time when calling can be up to 20 minutes.
- Attend Your Appointment
- On the day of your appointment, be prepared to go through office security. Don’t forget to bring the required documentation (listed below).
Required Documentation
- I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) or admission stamp in your unexpired foreign passport
- I-20 Form
- Letter from a DSO confirming your status, employer, and job details. Request a letter here.
- Letter from your employer stating your job, work hours, and supervisor’s contact information.
- If you are doing CPT, bring your I-20 with the CPT authorization.
Once you have all your documents, you can present them at the Social Security Office:
Address
14002 E 21st St, Ste 900 Tulsa, OK 74134
Hours
Monday – Tuesday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM – 12 PM
Thursday – Friday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Please note: If you need transportation to the Social Security Office, please request a ride here.