Applying for a Social Security Number
If you are eligible to apply for a Social Security number, you will need to apply through the Social Security Administration office. The one nearest to EMU's campus is located at 3971 Research Park Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108; AATA bus route #6 towards Ann Arbor.
You will need to bring the following documents:
- Complete the application for a social security card [PDF] (SS-5).
- Passport (plus a copy)
- I-94 card (plus a copy)
- I-20 form (plus a copy) (for F-1 visa holders only)
- DS-2019 form (plus a copy) (for J-1 visa holders only)
- Proof of employment eligibility (see below)
Proof of Employment
On-Campus Employment - You cannot apply for a SSN more than 30 days prior to your employment start date. You also need to wait to apply until at least 10 days after your initial arrival to the United States as an F-1 or J-1 student.
- Completed 10-1304 [PDF]. Ask your on-campus employer to print the form on their departmental letterhead and complete the top section in blue ink. Bring the original, completed 10-1304 to the OISS for an advisor to complete the bottom section.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
You cannot apply for a SSN more than 30 days prior to your employment start date.
- I-20 with CPT authorization on page 3
- Offer letter on letterhead from your company detailing the start and end date of your employment, location of employer, and job responsibilities.
Academic Training (J-1 students, called AT)
You cannot apply for a SSN more than 30 days prior to your employment start date.
- DS-2019 with AT authorization
- Offer letter on letterhead from your company detailing the start and end date of your employment, location of employer, and job responsibilities
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
You cannot apply for a SSN before the start date on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card).
- I-20 with OPT authorization on page 3
- EAD card
- Offer letter on letterhead from your company detailing the start and end date of your employment, location of employer and job responsibilities, if you have one. An offer letter is not required when applying for a SSN during OPT.
F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders: Once you receive your Social Security number, you must notify your employer that you received this number. Your employer will need to see the actual Social Security card. After you have shown your SSN to your employer, you should keep your card in a safe location- not in your wallet.
Letter of Ineligibility
If you are not eligible for a social security number, you can request a "letter of ineligibility" from the Social Security Administration. You need to present your original I-20/DS-2019, passport and I-94 card. You will receive the letter right away. You are required to have the letter of ineligibility in order to take the driver's license written test.