Most newcomers have no US credit history. Landlords know this. Here are the usual ways to get approved.
Before paying an application fee, ask: "I am new to the US and have no US credit history. What do you accept instead?" Large complexes often have a written policy for international renters and students.
Job offer letter with salary and start date, on company letterhead.
University letter or I-20/DS-2019 showing funding.
Bank statements showing savings (from a US or home bank, translated if needed).
Some landlords approve you if you pay a bigger security deposit, such as two months of rent instead of one. Some states limit how much a deposit can be. This differs by state.
Some landlords accept several months of rent in advance. This is risky: if the landlord is a scammer, or the place has problems, getting money back is hard. Never prepay before seeing the place and signing a lease. Get a receipt.
5. A co-signer or guarantor
A co-signer or guarantor is a person who promises to pay if you do not. Usually they must live in the US, have good credit and earn several times the rent (often 4 to 5 times).
A friend, relative or sometimes an employer may agree.
Guarantor companies (also called lease guarantee companies) act as your co-signer for a fee. The fee is often a share of one month's rent or of a year's rent, paid once per lease. Ask the landlord which companies they accept. Read the terms: if you do not pay, the company pays the landlord and then collects from you.
Corporate housing or employer housing help, if you moved for a job. Ask HR about relocation support.
University housing for students and sometimes for families.
Smaller landlords (one owner, a few units) may decide after meeting you.
Renting a room from someone who already holds a lease.
Pay rent on time, by bank transfer or the portal, so you have a record.
Some portals can report rent payments to credit bureaus. Ask.
Get a letter from your landlord at the end of the lease saying you paid on time. It helps with the next rental.
Paying a stranger online for a "guarantor service" that the landlord has never heard of.
Paying 6 to 12 months in cash with no lease and no receipt.
Thinking you will be "rejected for no SSN" and not asking. Many places accept a passport and other proof.