A Division of the International Studies Office
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CPT NOTICE
Effective immediately, UVA is suspending the authorization of non-required, course-credit CPT requests. This includes opportunities tied to academic credit, which are integral to the program of study but not required for degree completion. Visit CPT Update | International Students & Scholars Program for the latest information.
Duration of Status & Academic Mobility
On September 14, 2026, a nationwide preliminary injunction was issued, which blocks the Elimination of Duration of Status rule from taking effect and prohibits DHS and USCIS from implementing it. The government is expected to appeal the injunction. Please continue to monitor our FAQ page, which we will continue to update with any developments as the case continues.
The Department of Homeland Security's rule introduces significant changes to regulations governing F and J visa holders, including:
- The elimination of Duration of Status
- Restrictions on academic mobility
For more information visit FAQ: Elimination of Duration of Status & Academic Mobility | International Students & Scholars Program
Social Security
Purpose of the Social Security Number (SSN)
A social security number is necessary to receive any income for employment while in the U.S. While many nonimmigrants are eligible for social security numbers by virtue of their status in the U.S., others are not eligible for a social security number unless they are or will be working. The SSN is a lifetime number and can/should be applied for only once. There is no cost involved. Once the application is made it generally takes 2-4 weeks for the card with the SSN to be mailed to you.
F-1 and J-1 students are only eligible for social security numbers if engaging in lawful employment. Foreign nationals in most other statuses are eligible for social security numbers only after obtaining an employment authorization document (EAD) from USCIS.
Visit International Students and Social Security Numbers to read more information regarding the documents required to obtain a social security number.
F-1 students
- On-Grounds Employment
1. Complete a “Letter Request” on ISSP Connect for SSN. Please allow at least 5 business days to process.
2. A DSO will send you an email once your ISSP letter is ready to be picked up at 208 Minor Hall.
3. Obtain an employment letter from your UVA employer. Your UVA employer must provide an original wet signature. Copies of employer signatures are not permitted.
4. Apply for SSN number online through SSA.gov by selecting “Request number for the first time”
5. Schedule your appointment to visit the SSA Office.
6. You will need to bring the ISSP letter, UVA employment letter plus your passport, visa, I-20, and I-94 to the SSA Office- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Bring the following to the SSA Office:
1. I-20 with CPT authorization documented on page 2
2. Passport, visa and I-94
Apply for SSN number online through SSA.gov by selecting “Request number for the first time” and schedule your appointment to visit the SSA Office.
Note: Students with approved CPT may apply for SSN no earlier than 30 days prior to start of authorized employment- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Bring the following to the SSA Office:
1. OPT EAD Card
2. OPT I-20
3. Passport, visa and I-94Apply for SSN number online through SSA.gov by selecting “Request number for the first time” and schedule your appointment to visit the SSA Office.
J-1 Students/Scholars
- J-1 Students and Interns
Must obtain a letter of permission from ISSP by completing a letter request through ISSP Connect.
- J-1 Scholars
The DS-2019 should be presented with offer letter, passport, visa and I-94.
Social Security Office Location and Hours
Address:
DISTRICT OFFICE
1470 PANTOPS MTN PL
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22911
Phone:
1-866-613-3959
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Helpful Resources
- View the “Cards for Non-U.S. Citizens – Adults” YouTube video by the U.S. Social Security Administration
- Review the “International Students and Social Security Numbers” document
SCAM ALERT
Social Security employees will never:
- Demand immediate payment in the form of gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, bitcoin, or cash.
- Threaten potential arrest or legal action if you don’t provide information.
These calls, and other calls from individuals posing as government officials asking for money are fraudulent. Hang up and do not provide any personal information. If Social Security needs to reach you, they will provide a letter.