International Students Tax Filing

Tax 101: The Basics

If you’re new to U.S. taxes, start here!
We’ve created a short guide that explains key tax concepts like:

  • What time period you’re reporting for

  • When and why you need to file

  • Which forms (1040-NR, 8843, W-2, etc.) apply to you

  • What qualifies as income

  • The difference between federal and state taxes

  • How Social Security Numbers (SSN) and tax treaties work

Download the Tax 101: Basics of U.S. Taxes for International Students (PDF)

If you were in the U.S. in 2025, you must file taxes.

This applies to all international students — even if you:

  • Didn’t work in the U.S.
  • Didn’t receive a scholarship
  • Are sponsored by SACM
  • Are from a country with a tax treaty

Filing taxes is a legal requirement and helps you stay in compliance with U.S. immigration law.

What You Need to Do

  1. Determine your situation:
    • If you worked in the U.S. or received scholarships that covered more than tuition, you will need to file Form 1040-NR and possibly other forms.
    • If you did not work and only received tuition-only scholarships, you may only need to file Form 8843.
  2. Gather your documents: Passport, Social Security Number or ITIN (if you have one), tax forms you received (such as W-2, 1042-S, or 8843), and any scholarship/financial aid documents.
  3. Use the tax filing for nonresidents: We recommend using Glacier Tax Prep, which is designed specifically for international students. This document will guide you through the correct forms based on your visa type and income.
  4. File your forms before the IRS deadline. For 2025 taxes, the deadline is typically April 15, 2026 (confirm this based on official IRS guidance).

Important Notes

  • Do not use TurboTax, H&R Block, or other tax software meant for U.S. residents. These tools are not designed for international students and may lead to filing incorrectly.
  • Do not claim the 1098-T unless you're specifically told you're eligible. This form applies mostly to U.S. citizens.
If your parents or guardians request the 1098-T, you can get it by emailing Ramona Sanchezsalas ([email protected]).
Claiming this form incorrectly can cause legal and immigration problems.

Need Help?

If you're unsure about how to file or which form to use:
- Email the international office: [email protected]
- Contact Ramona Sanchez Salas: [email protected] and allow for a couple days for them to reach out to you
- Or make an appointment with us: Schedule an appointment

Common Tax Forms for International Students

Form Who Needs It Purpose
8843 All international students (even with no income) Confirms presence in the U.S.
W-2 If you had a job Shows wages earned
1042-S If you received taxable scholarships or stipends Reports income subject to withholding
1040-NR If you earned income or have tax obligations Nonresident tax return
1098-T Usually not for international students U.S. tax credit form (use with caution)

Summary

  • Yes, you must file taxes/report non-income if you were in the U.S. in 2024.
  • Yes, even if you had no job or income.
  • Use the Glacier Tax Prep designed for international students.
  • Ask for help if you're unsure — filing incorrectly can cause visa or legal issues.