Applying for a Social Security Number
Social Security Administration (SSA) has a new Online Social Security Number Application. Visit www.ssa.gov/ssnumber to complete the online application. Once you have submitted the online application, you then must visit the local SSA office. You will need originals of all documents when you go to your appointment. The exception is the form I-20 which is now permitted to be issued electronically. If you received your I-20 by email, print it out and sign it. The printed version you have is sufficient. Once you arrive at the SSA office, check in at the kiosk. You'll need to provide the online control number from the application. An SSA employee will then meet with you to verify the application and review the documentation.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) office hours are 9am-4pm. The Manhattan office is located at 1121 Hudson Ave Suite A (phone: 877 840 5741). Students at the Salina and Olathe campuses will need to connect with the local SSA offices.
Please note - the nonimmigrant must be in the U.S. for 10 calendar days before submitting the application to SSA. If the application is submitted earlier than this, there could be a significant delay.