In a previous article, it was discussed how to obtain a driver’s license. Now, it is important to know how to get a social security number and work legally on campus. It is important to note that if you are an F-1 or J-1 student, you are not allowed to work off campus. Otherwise, you hold the risk of being deported.

1. Get an employment letter.

After you accept a job on campus, you need a letter from the on-campus employer that contains:

Identity of student employee and job description (You can get your employment letter by asking at the front desk of the department you are applying to)

Anticipated or actual employment start date

Employer identification number (EIN). Penn State EIN is 24-6000376

Employer contact information, including the telephone number and the name of the F-1 student’s immediate supervisor

Original signature, signatory’s title, and the date

2. Go to IStart and request the social security letter from DISSA (gp.psu.edu).

Login to your Penn State IStart. Find the menu on the left side, choose “Letter Requests” then choose  “Social Security”.

Fill out the form and upload the Employment Letter.

Once you get the approval email, pick up the signed letter from the International Student Office at Olmsted Room E131.

3. Prepare the following documents

Passport and Visa

Print I-94 ( https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home)

Valid I-20

Employment Letter

Social Security Letter

SS-5 Form (https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf)

4. Call the Social Security Office and ask for an appointment (+1 888 327 1176)

Press 2 and 0 to talk to a representative in the office

When you get a person on the call, tell them you’re an international student and need a social security number to work on campus. You will get a date and time for an appointment to apply for a Social Security Number.

5. Go to Social Security Office (bring all documents from Step 3)

Social Security Office address:

SUITE 810

555 WALNUT STREET

HARRISBURG, PA 17101

The building is called “Forum Place” and the office is at the 8th Floor

After approval, within 2 weeks your application will be processed and they will mail your SSN Card to your local address from your SS-5 Form.