Tax Considerations for Graduate Students

Graduate student employees (Assistant Instructors or Teaching Assistants) receive the Tuition Assistance Benefit as part of their compensation.  Additionally, many graduate student employees receive tuition remission when their department pays all or part of their student fee bill that may be considered wages.

As you prepare to submit your income taxes, make sure you understand the implications of the Tuition Assistance Benefit program and tuition remission by reviewing this presentation.

Need Tax Assistance?

Community Tax Centers are a program of Foundation Communities, a nonprofit organization that empowers low-income individuals and families (including students) with the tools they need to succeed.

The criteria for clients of the Community Tax Centers is that total household income does not exceed $50,000 with dependents or $25,000 if filing as an individual. Students need to bring their W-2 forms, Social Security Card (if applicable), drivers license/ID, and their tuition and financial aid information (1098T or  1098 official forms). Locate a community tax center near you.

The Austin Public Library also offers assistance with taxes on a first-come, first served basis.