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Social Security Letter for J-1 Students

As a J-1 student, you do not need to have a job in order to apply for a Social Security Number. However, you do need a letter from the Office of International Student and Scholar Services for your Social Security Number application.

Students who are unable to retrieve their documents from the OISS may request they be shipped to them directly via eShipGlobal. If you would like your document shipped to you, or to an address of your choosing, please go to the following secure website: eShipGlobal. You will be required to create an account. Please be sure to note the document type under Shipment Information (Letter, EAD card, I-20, etc.). Shipping charges are incurred directly by the student.

Processing time for a social security letter is one week. Letters can be picked up on weekdays at the OISS Front Desk.

  • Please note the OISS office hours are from 12 pm - 4 pm.
  • You will receive an e-mail notification that your letter is ready.
  • We are currently only providing document pickup at 630 Dartmouth place in Evanston. 

To request this letter, please fill out the following information: