Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Last Updated: Mar 26, 2026, 10:45 AM
Important Disclaimer
The information on this webpage is general and may not apply to every situation.
For immigration related questions about your specific circumstances, please contact an Immigration Specialist by emailing isss@siu.edu.
Contact Information & Office Hours
Email (Primary): isss@siu.edu
Phone (Front Desk): (618) 453 5774
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Office Address:
425 Clocktower Drive
Woody Hall – MC 4333
Carbondale, IL 62901
After Hours Emergency (Immigration Related): (618) 453 3073
Non Urgent Police (Non Immigration): (618) 453 3771
Emergency (Injury or Personal Safety): Call 911
FAQs
Can international students work?
Employment
Yes, F 1 and J 1 students may work on campus without special authorization. They may only work up to 20 hours per week during the semester. A Social Security Number (SSN) is required to work in the US. See the SSN question in this FAQ for guidance on how to get one.
Off campus employment (including CPT, OPT, or Economic Hardship) requires special authorization.
For questions about special authorization to work off-campus, please contact an Immigration Specialist at isss@siu.edu.
How do I find an on-campus job?
Finding a Job
All on campus student jobs are posted on Handshake: https://siu.joinhandshake.com
Where is the student work referral form?
Work Referral Form
All on campus jobs require a student work referral from the Student Employment Services. The form is available on SalukiNet. If you have difficulty locating it, contact your hiring department.
How do I apply for a Social Security Number?
Social Security Number (SSN)
To apply for an SSN, you must have:
- A job offer that complies with F-1/J-1 regulations
- A Social Security Letter that has been signed by your supervisor and your Immigration Specialist (ask the CIE Front Desk for this form)
- A valid I‑20 or DS‑2019
- Your passport and visa
You can either schedule an appointment with the Social Security Administration (SSA) office online or walk-in.
Office Address:
250 W Cherry St.
Carbondale , IL 62901
SSN cards are typically mailed within two weeks, but you can begin working if you have a receipt from the SSA office.
Can ISSS provide proof of address?
Proof of Address
No. ISSS cannot provide proof of address.
Acceptable alternatives include:
- A lease agreement
- A utility bill
- Official mail addressed to you at your current residence
What do I need when traveling outside the United States?
Travel
- A travel signature on your I‑20 (page 2) or DS‑2019 is required to re‑enter the U.S.
(i). A travel signature is not required to leave the U.S., but you must have it by the time you return.
(ii). Domestic travel within the U.S. does not require a travel signature. - A passport
- A valid U.S. visa
- Evidence of Enrollment at SIU (recommended but not required)
- Proof of employment (if on an assistantship or post-completion OPT)
Travel Signature Validity:
- Enrolled F‑1 students: generally valid for 12 months
- Students on OPT: generally valid for 6 months
Other Travel Considerations:
- Students should carry digital copies of their passport, visa, I‑20/DS‑2019, and proof of SIU enrollment on their phone.
- Physical copies should be carried securely in carry-on luggage or on your person.
- While travel signatures are not required for travel within the U.S., it is recommended that you always have digital and physical copies of your travel documents accessible.
For complex travel situations or countries with visa issuance restrictions, contact an Immigration Specialist at isss@siu.edu.
Where can I find scholarship information?
Scholarships & Cost Information
Start with these resources:
Questions may be sent to isss@siu.edu, and your message will be routed appropriately.
How many online credits can count toward full time enrollment?
Online Course Enrollment
Only 3 online credits may count toward full‑time enrollment each semester.
- Undergraduates (full‑time = 12 credits): At least 9 credits must be in person
- Graduate students (full‑time = 9 credits, not on assistantship): At least 6 credits must be in person
- Graduate students on assistantship (full‑time = 8 credits): At least 5 credits must be in person
Special situations (such as Reduced Course Load, final term, or medical reasons) must be reviewed by an Immigration Specialist.
Email isss@siu.edu for assistance.Common ISSS Forms
OPT & CPT Information
For advising specific to your situation, email isss@siu.edu.
International Tax Information
How do I find my I 94?
I‑94 Records
You can retrieve your most recent I‑94 from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection here.