Hi
I am a F1 student from India.

I would like to know if I can use the 1098T to claim for Hope or Lifetime Learning credits.

Thanks
Joe

Joe:

No, you cannot claim any education credit if you file as a non-resident alien.

If you can file as a resident alien by waiting under the First Year Choice, do so!

Hi
Thanks for the reply.

But I am in the US as an F1 since August 2003,
Can I consider myself as Resident Alien for tax purposes and use the education credit.

Thanks
Joe

Joe:

No. The exemption to the Substantial Presence Test that the F-1 visa imposes is good for five calendar years, which means you are exempt from the Substantial Presence Test through 2007.

Hi,

I am a student on a J1 status. The requirements for using the education credit say that I can only file if I have not elected to be treated as a resident alien for tax purposes. What does this mean and where could I have made this decision? I don't know if I am treated as a resident alien for tax purposes.

Hi
Thanks for the reply.
But I am in the US as an F1 since August 2003,
Can I consider myself as Resident Alien for tax purposes and use the education credit.

Thanks
Joe

Yes, for 2008 and after that you will file resident tax return. You can claim education credit.