Your Tax Identification Number

Learn why it's important for UCSD to have your correct Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification number (ITIN).

The United States Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 requires educational institutions to obtain a valid Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification number (ITIN) from all U.S. citizens and permanent residents who file a U.S. tax return.

UC San Diego uses your SSN or ITIN to prepare and file the required 1098-T form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) concerning your enrollment and the fees you pay each year.

If you don't provide one of these numbers to UCSD, the IRS may charge you a $100 penalty.

International Students

• You are not required to obtain a number or give it to UCSD if you're an international student (such as a student with an F1 or J1 visa) and:
  • You do not have income that is subject to U.S. tax
    or
  • You are not receiving any financial support, including university employment
• If your parent is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and intends to use a tax deduction for educational expenses, you must have an ITIN and it must be on file with UCSD.
• Read what the Social Security Administration says about international students and Social Security numbers (PDF).

If You Don't Have a SSN or ITIN

1. Apply for a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
   • How to get a Social Security card
   • How to get an Individual Taxpayer Identification card
2. Complete an SSN/ITIN Update Form
   • Submit the online Request to Update or Change Name or SSN/ITIN form. This form is only available to individuals with a record in the student information system and cannot be submitted on behalf of someone else
3. Attach Documentation to the Form
   • Attach a copy of your SSN / ITIN card to the form.  Without this documentation, your request will not be processed.