I am an Indian Student.
During 2008, I was on F1 status and worked from July 08 to Dec 08 on OPT.
Is there any way I can choose to file 1040 (for resident aliens) instead of 1040NR (for non resident aliens).
The reason I am asking this is because I want to claim the following:
1. Married filing jointly status. - Non resident aliens can not use this status as per IRS web site.
2. Education credit for tution fees that I paid for my spouse (she too is on F1 status in USA). - Non resident aliens can not claim education credit.

Please let me know if there is any way around to get above deductions.

No, both of you must file separate returns as nonresidents.