Social Security Cards

The Social Security Administration now requires that all F1 and J1 students must show proof of employment before they can be issued a social security number.
Steps to Apply for a Social Security Number
Step 1 – Get a Job
You must be employed or be starting a job in the near future.  Obtain a letter of offer from your employer and take that letter to the International Office.  If you have a graduate assistantship, bring a copy of your assistantship contract to the International Office.
Step 2 – Obtain Letter to take to Social Security Administration
Submit the Letter Request Form along with proof of your job offer to the International Office.  We will write a letter for you to take to the Social Security Administration.
Step 3 – Go to the Social Security Administration
Take your letter issued by the International Office, you immigration documents (I-20 or DS-2019) passport, visa, and I-94 to the Social Security Administration.  You will be required to fill out a form at the Social Security Administration and meet briefly with an officer. You should receive your Social Security Card with 2-3 weeks. 
Step 4 – Your Card
Once you receive your Social Security Card you will need to bring a copy to the International Office for your file.
For more information, please go to the following website:  http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10181.html 
You can print the Social Security Card application from this page. 
The nearest Social Security Office is:
          Social Security Administration
          330 West Market Street
West Chester, PA  19382
610-431-0529