The U.S. Social Security Administration will not accept an application for a social security number from an international student/scholar until the student or scholar has been in the country for 10 days. The University of Louisville's Payroll Department cannot place students or scholars on payroll until the student has proof that they have applied for their social security number. The letter that the Social Security Administration issues at the time of application will be sufficient. Please be aware that if you are an incoming international student supported by an assistantship or fellowship, there will be a delay in receiving your first paycheck because of these requirements. You will need to have provision for at least one month's living expenses when you arrive.