University Policy
Title
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Procedure for the Collection of Social Security Numbers Associated with Student Records
Introduction
Purpose
The purpose of this is to outline the procedures for collecting the Social Security Number (SSN) associated with a student record and assigning a substitute SSN when the student does not have a valid SSN.. This procedure is associated with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's ("University") Social Security Number Changes Policy.
The student SSN is used only for reporting student data, as authorized by University Counsel, to the UNC System Office of the President, for federal tax reporting, and for financial aid reporting (National Student Clearinghouse, etc). It is maintained in accordance with the University's Information Security Policy. The SSN is not directory information and is not released under the same provisions outlined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Foreign students who are not permitted to work in the United States will not have an SSN, and the UNC System Office requires a substitute number be assigned.
Procedures
Admitting offices are responsible for coordinating the collection of Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and the assignment of substitute numbers for foreign students.
All Admitting Offices
In most cases, when a new student record is created, an SSN is collected automatically from the application. Substitute numbers may be assigned to international students as appropriate. (The UNC System Office requires the assigned number begin with “999” for reporting in the Student Data File.)
Verification
Students are prompted to verify their Social Security Number in the student information system prior to enrollment.
Related Requirements
External Regulations
University Policies, Standards, and Procedures
Publication Details
Issuing Officer: Associate Provost and University Registrar
Effective Date: July 23, 2026
Next Review Date:
Additions/Revisions: Content from the previous University Policy Memorandum # 10: Collection of Social Security Numbers.