In an effort to increase the level of protection given to Social Security numbers, Northwestern has implemented a Campus-Wide Identification number for every student that may be used in lieu of a Social Security number in many situations.

It must be recognized that Northwestern can never totally eliminate the need for Social Security numbers. They are still required for a number of purposes including processing federal aid, reporting income of student workers, or obtaining official transcripts. However, the use of Social Security numbers has been significantly reduced with the use of the Campus-Wide Identification numbers.

Several examples of the use of the new identification numbers include the following instances:

• Logging on to the Web: No one will be able to copy your Social Security number if you log on in a public place such as a computer lab. 
• Making payments on your account to the Cashier’s office: No one will be able to hear your Social Security number being given to the cashier. 
• Registering for classes: You will not have to provide your Social Security number to register for classes with your advisor or via Web or telephone. 
• Class rosters will no longer list Social Security numbers—Campus-Wide ID numbers will be used. 

Please note that if you do not know (or you forgot) your Campus-Wide Identification number, you may still use your Social Security number for the aforementioned purposes.

Please click here to obtain your Campus-Wide Identification number.