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Social Security Number

The U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) is required in order to be paid for work in the United States. If you will work for MSU, the university will need your SSN in order to pay you. Check with your hiring department to find out if you can start working while applying for an SSN. 

MSU-Sponsored Visa Statuses Eligible for a Social Security Number: 

  • F-1 with On-Campus Employment 

  • F-1 with Curricular Practical Training authorization 

  • F-1 with Optional Practical Training authorization 

  • J-1 Students & Scholars 

  • J-2 Dependents with Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 

  • H-1B Employees 

  • H-4 Dependents with Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 

Learn more about application procedures for Social Security Numbers.

MSU-Sponsored Visa Statuses NOT Eligible for a Social Security Number: 

  • F-1 students without employment 

  • F-2 dependent family members 

  • J-2 dependent family members without an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 

  • H-4 dependent family members without an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 

Those who are not currently eligible for an SSN and wish to apply for a Michigan Driver License or State Identification card should request a special letter (SSA L-676) from the Social Security Administration to be used while applying for the license or identification card.  

Learn more about requesting the SSA L-676 Letter.