Um... where could you possibly be applying to that would require a social security number and why would just willingly give it to them.

Maybe you have so little to lose that identity thief isn't that big of deal.

Um ... almost every accredited school requires an SSN. I would be surprised if one didn't. And knowing someone's SSN and name by itself isn't going to get you very far in terms of identity theft, lol. There's a lot more info they would need to know.

But I do think there's no point in including it on the cover letter.

^ considering all you said in your post was 'application' and didn't clarify with 'school application' it was easy and natural to assume that you meant job application, resulting in said feedback.

I would probably just follow the application guidelines each school has. Considering the increased number of applicants, reduced enrollment sizes, etc. colleges are going be to looking for any and ever reason to make an easy and fast decision. Add to that your application is probably going to be received by an underpaid, overworked and irritable admin assistant, doing anything outside of the requirements is likely to land you admission into the dumpster.

lol okay "he included a cover letter to clarify that this is his portfolio -- reject him". Makes a lot of sense.

The main thing I'm wondering is whether a cover letter is usually expected in these situations. Although they don't ask for one, it seems to make sense to include one for things like this.

yes, include a cover letter. don't include your social security number...that would be a dumb move.

here's more on the topic...i found this through google.com. it's a pretty good search engine.

anytime you send anything related to being a professional (including dealing with schools) you should always include a short letter...unless you're sending cash to your drugs/arms/etc dealer, in which case the less evidence the better