International tax filing assistance
We assist eligible international students and scholars who are nonresident aliens for U.S. tax purposes with annual federal and state filing obligations within the scope of the program.
Tax knowledge in service of the IU community
Practical tax assistance for international students and scholars.
The Virtual Tax Program helps eligible members of the Indiana University Bloomington community understand and complete annual U.S. tax filing obligations. The program is part of the Tax Knowledge Network, a campus initiative focused on tax literacy, education, and service.
What we do
Assistance built around tax understanding
Our goal is not simply to move through forms. We help participants understand what they are filing, why the filing is required, and where to find reliable information when questions arise.
Tax literacy and education
We explain core filing concepts, common tax documents, deadlines, residency classifications, and the purpose of forms participants may encounter.
Campus outreach
Through the broader Tax Knowledge Network, we support presentations and educational programming for student groups, scholars, faculty, and campus partners.
How it works
A straightforward path from questions to filing
Tax residency is not determined by visa status alone. Before assistance begins, participants should confirm that the program and available filing tools fit their tax situation.
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1
Confirm your tax status and eligibility
International students and scholars may be treated as residents or nonresidents for U.S. tax purposes depending on their circumstances.
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2
Gather your tax documents
Bring the forms and information relevant to your situation, including wage statements, scholarship or treaty documents, identification information, and prior year filings when applicable.
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3
Work through the filing process
Program volunteers help participants navigate the applicable filing process and understand the information being entered or reported.
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4
Review before submission
You remain responsible for reviewing your return, confirming that the information is accurate, and completing any required filing or mailing steps.
Before you seek assistance
Arrive with the information needed to make the session useful.
The exact documents depend on your circumstances. These are common items to have available.
- Passport and current immigration documents
- Social Security number or ITIN, if you have one
- Forms W 2 and 1042 S, if received
- Relevant Forms 1099 or other income documents
- Prior year federal and state returns, if available
- Current U.S. and foreign address information
- Dates of U.S. presence needed for tax residency questions
Do not send Social Security numbers, tax forms, passport images, or other sensitive documents by ordinary email.
Reliable resources
Start with authoritative information
Tax rules change. These official resources are better starting points than social media, message boards, or advice written for a different tax residency status.
Indiana University
Office of International Services tax information
IU guidance for international students and scholars on U.S. tax filing responsibilities.
Visit resource Indiana UniversitySprintax information for IU affiliates
Current IU information about access to Sprintax for eligible international students and scholars.
Visit resource Internal Revenue ServiceNonresident alien tax information
Federal information about nonresident alien status, filing requirements, and related topics.
Visit resourceContact
Questions about the Virtual Tax Program?
For current information about availability, eligibility, or upcoming tax assistance, contact the program by email.
Email the programImportant scope information
The Virtual Tax Program is an educational and service initiative. No fee is charged for program assistance. Participation does not create legal representation or a paid tax preparer relationship.
Tax situations can be complex. Matters outside the program's scope may require assistance from an attorney, certified public accountant, enrolled agent, or other qualified tax professional.