Do I need to file taxes as a college student?

File to get your money back

Even if you don't have to file, you may want to. If federal tax was taken out of your paychecks and you don't owe any, the only way to get it back is to file a return.

If your parents claim you, say so

When you file your own return, check the box that says someone can claim you as a dependent. If you both claim you, the IRS will flag both returns. Talk with your parents first.

Scholarships can be taxable

Scholarships and grants used for tuition, fees and required books aren't taxed. Money used for room, board or travel is taxable income, even if it all goes through your school.

The education credit goes to whoever claims you

If your parents claim you as a dependent, only they can claim the American Opportunity Credit for your tuition, even if you paid it. It's worth up to $2,500 a year, so make sure they know about it.

Student loan interest

Once you start repaying student loans, you can usually deduct up to $2,500 a year of the interest you pay. Your loan servicer sends Form 1098-E.

Don't forget your state

Most states have their own income tax return, with different filing rules. Check your state's revenue department website.

We use the 2026 single filer rules for someone under 65. The standard deduction is $16,100. If someone can claim you as a dependent, it's the larger of $1,350 or your earned income plus $450, but no more than $16,100.

A dependent must file if their investment income is over $1,350, their earned income is over $16,100, or their total income is over the larger of $1,350 or their earned income (up to $15,650) plus $450. Anyone with $400 or more of self-employment profit must file. Taxable scholarship money counts as earned income.

The American Opportunity Credit is 100% of the first $2,000 of tuition, fees and required books, plus 25% of the next $2,000, after subtracting tax-free scholarships. Up to 40% of it ($1,000) can come back as a refund. It's for the first four years of college, for students taking at least half a course load. The Lifetime Learning Credit is 20% of up to $10,000 of costs, with no refund. Both phase out between $80,000 and $90,000 of income for single filers. Self-employment tax is 15.3% of 92.35% of your profit.

This is an estimate. It doesn't include other credits, the kiddie tax on large investment income, or state taxes. Tax software or a free VITA volunteer will figure your exact numbers.

Last checked October 2026. Amounts change every year.

• IRS Publication 501 · Who must file, dependents and the standard deduction
• IRS Publication 970 · Tax benefits for education
• IRS · American Opportunity Tax Credit
• IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · 2026 standard deduction and tax brackets