Starting with the calendar year 2018, Form 1098-T reports payments made for tuition and related expenses versus the amounts billed for tuition and related expenses. The 1098-T also reports financial aid awarded to students enrolled in courses at Cornell during the calendar year for which they receive academic credit.
The information reported on the 1098-T form helps students evaluate whether he or she is eligible for an education tax credit. For information on what is reported on this form, see the Specific Instructions for Form 1098-T on the IRS website.
For other questions regarding the 1098-T form, contact the Office of the Bursar, or call (800) 339-8131.
1098-T Frequently Asked Questions
Caution: Cornell can not act as an individual's tax adviser. This information is for general guidance ONLY.
- What is a 1098-T form?
- As of the 2018 calendar year, the IRS requires that the 1098-T Form report’s amount paid toward tuition and related expenses (box 1) versus the amount billed for tuition and related expenses (box 2). The 1098-T form is used by taxpayers to claim education tax credits and deductions, i.e., the American opportunity credit or the Lifetime learning credit.
- What are the education credits and deductions I can take on my tax return?
- See the Education Tax Credits page for details.
- How can I obtain the financial information required for the credits?
- Review your bursar bills and/or other documents. If you need copies of your bills, you may obtain them through Cashnet.
- I received a 1098-T form from Cornell. Does that mean I am eligible for a tax credit?
- Not necessarily. There are many restrictions associated with the tax credits. Review the IRS Forms and Publications for guidance.
- I am a foreign national; can I claim a credit?
- Generally, foreign students can not claim a credit. However, some foreign nationals may be eligible. Review the IRS Forms and Publications for guidance.
- Why is there no check mark in box 8 ("at least part-time")?
- Box 8 will not be checked if you did not complete six credit hours during an academic period and/or you were a graduate student in absentia.
- I took a graduate level course; why is there no check mark in box 9 ("graduate student")?
- Box 9 will not be checked for students enrolled in a professional degree program (Law, JGSM, etc.) or if you were enrolled during the calendar year first as an undergraduate student and then a graduate student.
- How do I get a copy of 1098-T form?
- You may view and/or print a copy of your 1098-T form at any time using Cashnet. For more information, visit the Tax Information page on the Bursar's website.
- How do I update my contact information online?
- Update your contact information using Student Essentials or Student Center.
