Filing U.S. taxes for international students made simple

If you’re in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, you may need to file tax documents even if you didn’t earn any income. Whether you worked on campus, received a scholarship or just arrived in the country, tax filing is part of maintaining your visa status and financial record.

This explanation of filing taxes as an international student walks you through who needs to file, what forms you’ll need and how to handle refunds, deadlines and documentation.

Who needs to file taxes?

All international students must file something with the IRS each year. Even if you didn’t work or earn money, you’re required to submit Form 8843 as a record of your nonresident status.

You may also need to file:

Form 1040-NR: For students who earned U.S. income, such as from an on-campus job, CPT or OPT
State tax return: Required in some states depending on where you worked or lived
Form 8843: Required for all F-1 visa holders, even if you had no income

If you earned income and had tax withheld, you might be eligible for a tax refund for international students.

What counts as income?

Income includes:

On-campus jobs or assistantships
Curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT)
Scholarships used for room, board or other living expenses
Prizes or awards from contests or academic events

As a nonresident, you’ll use different forms than U.S. citizens and may be subject to different tax rates. You also may not qualify for the same deductions.

If you have a social security card for F-1 students, you’ll enter that number when filing. If not, you’ll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which can be used on federal forms.

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What documents do I need?

Before you file, gather:

Passport, visa and I-20
W-2 form from your employer (if you worked)
1042-S form for scholarships or grants
1098-T form (optional for most nonresidents)
Any prior ITIN or Social Security number
Copies of previous years’ tax forms if applicable

Having a U.S. bank account or international student credit card can also simplify the refund process, since direct deposit is often the fastest way to receive funds.

How to file as a nonresident student

Determine your filing status: Most F-1 students are considered nonresident aliens for tax purposes during their first five calendar years.
Use the right forms: Most students and their dependents need to file Form 8843, and if you had income, you’ll also need Form 1040-NR.
Use trusted tools: Many universities offer access to tax software for international students or host workshops.
File by the deadline: Federal returns are due in April each year.
Submit state returns if required: Not all states collect income tax, but many do.

Your school’s international student office can help you understand state rules and offer more guidance on international students and taxes.

A dorm room desk scene includes a neat stack of tax paperwork. A calendar on the wall and a cup of pens sits beside a calculator and laptop.

MPOWER Financing can help you stay organized

While MPOWER Financing does not provide tax preparation services, it helps international students manage the financial paperwork that makes tax filing smoother. When you borrow from MPOWER, you receive verified documentation that may support your eligibility for forms, accounts and identity checks.

Here’s how MPOWER helps with the tax process:

Student loan statements and disbursement letters that support IRS filing or refund inquiries
Path2Success content on building credit and managing documents
International scholarships that help lower the out-of-pocket cost of your education
Clear payment schedules and online account access that make it easier to track what you have paid and what you still owe
Support for timely financial planning alongside your F-1 visa requirements

With accurate records and educational tools, tax season becomes less overwhelming and more manageable.

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FAQs

Do I have to file taxes even if I didn’t work?

Yes. Form 8843 is required every year you are physically present in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, even without income.

What if I made money on campus?

You’ll need to file Form 1040-NR and possibly a state tax return. You may be due a refund if too much was withheld.

Can I use regular tax software like TurboTax?

No. Most mainstream software doesn’t support nonresident returns. Use tools recommended by your school or IRS-listed providers.

What is an ITIN and how do I get one?

It’s a taxpayer ID number for those not eligible for a Social Security number. Your international office or the IRS can help you apply.

Does MPOWER help with tax filing?

Not directly, but MPOWER’s financial documents and resources support the process, especially when verifying enrollment or financial aid history.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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How to file taxes as an international student