In the U.S. a Social Security number (SSN) is issued to track pay over a worker’s lifetime. A SSN is not an offcampus employment authorization and a SSN is not required to apply for a driver's license, open a bank account, rent an apartment, start a mobile phone contract or get a credit card.

In this video, we discuss social security numbers in the U.S., what they are, and how to obtain one as an F1 or J1 international student.

0:00 Introduction
0:18 Eligibility and Application Process for F1 Students
1:05 Employment Offer Letter and ISSC Certification
2:06 Required Documents and Online Application
2:52 Application Process for CPT and OPT Students
3:17 PostApplication Steps and Record Updates