Hi,

I graduated with my masters in December 2009. I am currently on my OPT STEM extension. I work at a research facility (company 1- in my field of study) and I am paid in the form of a scholarship (by company 2- also in my field of study)

I didn't receive any W2 or any other legal tax documents from them. I only have my scholarship pay stubs. I have a valid I-20, EAD card and a I-9.

1) Although the companies have not deducted any tax money from my scholarship, I want to file my taxes, which form do I use?

2) Can I still file as a student?

3) certain tax lawyer thinks I should file with 1099-MISC under self employment. Is that correct?

4) If self employment is illegal for F1 students, what documents do I need from the companies to prove I am a legal employee n not self employed?

Waiting eagerly,
Student

What document did you receive, 1098T?
Sure it's not 1099 MISC.

I didn't receive any document from them. I just have my pay stubs.

You should receive a document... maybe you don't realize what it is. Contact employer and request for another copy.

I did not receive any document from them, hence my enquiry here. I confirmed with my HR.
I am trying to find out if it is a non taxable scholarship. But, if not , what document should I ask them for?

Go to HR, and tell them you want to file tax but don't know what documents should be submitted as record of payment received and withholding taxes, etc.