Social Security Numbers are applied for voluntarily by the parents of the baby. Usually the hospital puts together the application from what I understand, but the parents can request that the hospital not do that. If a parent makes such a request, they usually have to educate the nurses that Social Security Numbers are not required by law, and are voluntary. If required for taxing purposes, a person without a Social Security Number will have to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). There is even a process to remove yourself from the Social Security program once you are 18, or convert to a religion that does not approve of it.
I would also venture to guess that not having a SSN or even an ITIN to use in place of the SNN is an automatic disqualification for attending school, getting a driver license, buying a house, or getting a job.
I would also venture to guess that not having a SSN or even an ITIN to use in place of the SNN is an automatic disqualification for attending school, getting a driver license, buying a house, or getting a job.