F and M students who want to work in the United States have options like optional practical training and curricular practical training. No matter what type of employment you choose, you must apply for a Social Security number (SSN) if you receive any type of income when you study in the United States. You will use your SSN to pay income taxes every April. Only F and M students that have received employment authorization from their designated school official (DSO) can apply.

Take the following steps if you want to obtain an SSN,:

• Talk to your DSO about working in the United States.
• Make sure your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System is Active (your status must be active for at least two days before you apply).
• Wait until you have been in the United States for 10 days to apply.
• Visit the local Social Security Administration (SSA) office to apply and bring all required documents (use this SSA webpage to learn more about what the SSA requires).

Talk to your DSO if you have any questions.