Why does the College ask for my Social Security Number? (2024)

FAQs

Why does the College ask for my Social Security Number? ›

The SSN is necessary to verify a student's eligibility and process financial aid applications. It helps institutions determine whether a student meets the requirements for various aid programs and enables the disbursem*nt of funds.

For enrollment verification and eligibility for health insurance coverage, and other benefits, as requested by students; For submitting reports to federal and state agencies as required.

The SSN is part of your confidential record. Your SSN will be treated as a confidential piece of information used only to match documents to your account or to process loans or financial aid if applicable.

Public schools don't mandate the submission of a child's SSN for enrollment. While some educational institutions might request your child's SSN for administrative reasons, it's a discretionary choice for you to provide it.

2 answers. For most colleges, you will be able to update/add an SSN directly through the admissions or Financial aid portal (they will provide a form or link that you can fill out). Most colleges will alert you if you have any missing information.

Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone's number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law.

Your Social Security card will be necessary if you're moving to a new state or getting an official photo ID. Though you can leave your original Social Security card with your parents or guardians, you should at least keep a photocopy with you on campus.

You should be careful about sharing your number, even when you're asked for it. You should ask why your number is needed, how it'll be used, and what will happen if you refuse. The answers to these questions can help you decide if you want to give out your Social Security number.

We use your SSN to record your earnings and determine your eligibility for Social Security benefits and certain government services. Many financial institutions, such as banks and credit companies, also ask for your number when you open an account.

As a best practice, employers should request an SSN from an applicant only when absolutely necessary. For example, when conducting a background check before making an offer, an employer can collect the SSN on a separate background check authorization form rather than on the employment application.

Can someone without SSN go to college? ›

1. You Can Go to College. First, you should know that no federal law prevents U.S. colleges from admitting undocumented students. A few states have restricted these students from attending public colleges and universities.

Please add your Social Security number in the Citizenship section of the Common Application. Your SSN is required for processing of your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) application.

Students and contributors without an SSN must continue to manually enter their tax information. Students without an SSN must verify their eligible noncitizen status through their school before they receive any federal funds.

In some instances, a scholarship provider may request a Form W-2 as proof of income if you are applying for a scholarship specifically for low-income students. If required, blacking out your SSN is recommended. Bottom line: Protect your SSN. There's no reason to provide it on a scholarship application.

A Social Security number (SSN) is necessary to complete the FAFSA form. If you are completing an online FAFSA form, an SSN is also required to create a StudentAid.gov account to access your FAFSA form and to electronically sign it.

If you are intending to apply for financial aid, your Social Security Number is needed for processing. Your Social Security Number will not be used for any other purpose.