Tips for International Students

When you arrive in the United States, you should take steps immediately to establish your identity in this country. This may include obtaining proper identification (ID), starting a credit history, establishing a social security number, and taking necessary steps in order to work in the U.S. The sooner you get established, the sooner you can explore available options!

Social Security Number

Social Security Number

A Social Security Number (SSN) is required to receive wages, file taxes, and be eligible for some types of government services in the U.S. A Social Security Number is a nine-digit number issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary workers by the Social Security Administration.

F-1 students are only eligible for a SSN if they have a paid job offer through on-campus employment or authorized off-campus employment. Further details and steps to apply for an SSN.

J-1 students are eligible to apply for a SSN after they have completed visa check-in requirements. Please visit DCISS in-person to submit a Social Security Support Letter Request.

See here for more information from the UCLA Dashew Center.

Bank Account

One of the first things you’ll need to do upon arriving in the U.S. is open a bank account. Check out the detailed information the Dashew Center provides.

Credit Cards

Often, you can use your credit card in the U.S. for purchases as long as it is internationally recognized (VISA, MasterCard, American Express, etc.). However, use of your international credit card does not build U.S. credit history, which you will need later for things like financing a car purchase or applying for a mortgage. See here for more information from the Dashew Center.

Driving in California

If you wish to drive in the U.S., you must apply for and obtain a California Driver License. Your home country's valid driver's license is acceptable for up to three months after you arrive in the US; however, not all U.S. law officers are aware of this rule and might issue you a driving ticket anyway. It is best to get a California driver’s license as soon as possible to avoid any problems. See here for step-by-step instructions from the Dashew Center to apply for a California driver’s license.

Working in the U.S.

Students with F-1 visas can use the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to work full-time during the summer months between the first and second year of studies and part-time during the quarters.
Students holding F-1 visas may be employed full time for 12 months after graduation under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Students should apply for OPT with the UCLA Dashew Center no later than 90 days before graduation to ensure that they have the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by graduation so that they can begin work soon after the completion of their studies. This program does not have an annual quota or other restriction, and students do not need a confirmed job offer to obtain the EAD.
Because our program is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) certified, students can apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.

Dashew Center Resource Guide

Check out these comprehensive online resources compiled by the Dashew Center for International Students and Scholars to help you transition to your life as a student in the U.S.

View Resource Guide