[renaissanceee]

Good work Mr.Atlantataxexpert!!

Here is my question.

During the last semester at school, I got into CPT(F1 visa) from(june- dec 2006),working 40 hrs a week and enrolled in one course to finish my master's at my school.
Can I claim the tution on the itemized deductions on 1040NR?

I also had to relocate to 150 miles away from my school for the job and so I had to travel 2 days a week for the class. I was never reimbursed by my company.

Also, Can you also suggest any other ways for maximizing itemized deductions.

Currently I am on OPT.

[AtlantaTaxExpert]

In my opinion, no, you cannot claim your tuition as an employee business expense. The job you got (CPT) is directly related to your master's degree. That link means the master's degree is a requirement for the job. That eliminates it as a valid deduction under job-related education expenses.

You can deduct moving expense for your initial move from the school to the job, but you CANNOT deuct the twice-a-week travel because you cannot claim the master's degree costs under job-related education expenses (as noted above).

I do not know enough to properly advise you on maximizing itemized deductions.

If you need my professional tax help, contact me at [email protected].