How does the UFID number work when a student does not have a SSN?

It works great! At the point of first contact, a UFID number will be assigned. This is a permanent number and will not change. For most students, this UFID assignment is likely to occur when the university accepts a valid application. International students must continue to work with the appropriate offices (e.g., Student Financial Affairs or International Student Services) to obtain a valid SSN.