Filing US Taxes as an International Student
Filing US taxes can feel overwhelming as an international student — but with the right tools, it's manageable. Here's everything you need to know about your tax obligations as an F-1 or J-1 student.
Resident vs. Non-Resident Alien
Your tax status depends on how long you've been in the US and under what visa. Most F-1 students are non-resident aliens for the first 5 calendar years in the US. This affects which tax forms you file.
- Non-Resident Alien (NRA): File Form 1040-NR (most F-1/J-1 students)
- Resident Alien: File Form 1040 (like US citizens) — applies if you've been in the US 5+ years or meet the Substantial Presence Test
Key Tax Forms
W-2
Wage and tax statement from your employer. Shows how much you earned and how much was withheld. You'll get this from your on-campus or OPT employer by January 31.
1042-S
Reports US-sourced income for non-resident aliens — scholarships, fellowships, or income covered by a tax treaty. Your university's payroll office issues this by March 15.
1040-NR
The non-resident alien tax return. Most F-1/J-1 students file this. Also file Form 8843 even if you had no income.
8843
Statement for exempt individuals. Required for all F-1/J-1 students even if you had zero income. Filing deadline: June 15 (if no income).
Recommended Tax Software
Do not use TurboTax or H&R Block — these are for US residents and will file the wrong return for most international students.
| Software | Best For | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sprintax | F-1/J-1 students | ~$37–$45 | Most widely used; guided step-by-step; handles 8843 |
| Glacier Tax Prep | If your school offers it | ~$35 (or free via school) | Many universities provide free access — check with your international office |
| TaxAct (1040-NR) | Confident filers | Free to paid | More manual; works for NR returns |
Tax Treaties
The US has tax treaties with many countries that may reduce or eliminate your tax on certain income. Common countries with favorable treaties include China, India, South Korea, France, Germany, and more.
Treaty benefits must be claimed using Form 8833 and/or noted on your 1042-S. Sprintax and Glacier handle this automatically.
Getting an ITIN
If you don't have a Social Security Number (SSN) and aren't eligible for one, you'll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file taxes.
- Apply using Form W-7 — attach it to your tax return when you first file
- Your university's international office or a Certified Acceptance Agent can certify your documents
- Processing takes 6–11 weeks
Filing Deadlines
- April 15 — If you had US income during the prior year
- June 15 — If you had no US income (Form 8843 only)
- March 15 — 1042-S forms issued to you by your university
- January 31 — W-2 forms issued to you by your employer
State Taxes
Depending on your state, you may also need to file a state tax return. States like Texas, Florida, and Washington have no income tax. States like California and New York have their own forms and deadlines.
Sprintax and Glacier both handle state tax returns for an additional fee (around $25–$35).
FAQ
Do I have to file if I earned no money?
Yes — you must still file Form 8843 as an F-1/J-1 student each year you're in the US, even with zero income.
Can I get a refund?
Yes! Many international students get a refund if their employer withheld too much federal tax, or if a tax treaty reduces their liability.
What if I'm on OPT or STEM OPT?
You still file as a non-resident alien for your first 5 years in the US. After 5 years you may become a resident alien for tax purposes.