Bryant University. The Character of Success

Social Security Numbers

Social Security numbers (SS#) is a taxpayer identification number issued by the Social Security Administration and is intended to accurately record your earnings in the U.S. International students do not have to have SS # unless they are working. People may ask for it when you open a bank account or purchase a cell phone, however, it is not necessary. You may learn more about social security numbers for international students at www.ssa.gov.

SS# does not give you permission to work, nor is it proof of US citizenship or permanent residence. You must have an on-campus job offer or a graduate assistantship to be eligible for a Social Security number.

If you are eligible to obtain SS #, you must apply in person at the Providence Social Security Administration (address below). You should wait until you have been in the U.S. at least ten days before applying for a social security number. This will allow for enough time for your immigration information to be entered into the system, which is then verified by the social security office. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Secure a job on campus or obtain a graduate assistantship. Campus job postings can be found at http://web.bryant.edu/finaidjobs/
  2. Contact the ICC
  3. Obtain the verification of letter of full-time enrollment from the ICC
  4. The ICC will contact the hiring department and prepare the verification letter of on-campus employment.
You need the following documents (must be original) to bring:
  • Letter from ICC verifying the full-time enrollment
  • Letter from the hiring supervisor verifying on-campus employment (A letter template will be provided by the ICC. It must be printed on the hiring department letterhead, signed by the supervisor and by the ICC.)
  • passport
  • I-20 form
  • I-94 card (which may be stapled in your passport)
  • Bryant University ID
  • SSN Application Form (be sure to check off "Legal Alien Allowed to Work" on question #3 under "Citizenship") You may download the form at:www.ssa.gov

Bring above documents in person to:

Providence Social Security Administration Office
3RD FLOOR
380 WESTMINSTER ST
PROVIDENCE, RI 02903
*MONDAY - FRIDAY: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

*Except Federal Holidays

It is on a first come first serve basis, so be ready to spend a good amount of time there waiting.