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OISS Tax Resources

OISS staff are not qualified or allowed to answer any tax-related questions or provide individual tax advice beyond the information provided on our website resources.

The tax information provided on the OISS website is intended only for international students and scholars with income sources and level typical of students and scholars at Northwestern University. Although the information  has been reviewed carefully and should be adequate to assist most international students and scholars, it is not a substitute for advice obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or a qualified tax accountant. If your visa status has changed in the past year, or you believe you have a complicated tax issue, please consult the IRS or a qualified tax accountant. 

In addition, while the tax preparation software for non-resident filers, Sprintax, is being provided to help you with your tax filing obligations, you are individually responsible for verifying that the correct information has been entered into the tax preparation software and included on all forms and/or other documents printed or derived from the tax preparation software, and ultimately responsible for any errors or omissions. 

Below are some tax resources you may wish to utilize to find answers to your questions and for assistance in meeting your U.S. tax obligations.

OISS access to Sprintax Tax Preparation Software for Non-Resident Filers

By the end of February, OISS will email all F-1 and J-1 students and scholars  instructions to access the tax preparation software Sprintax. This software will help you prepare your federal tax return free of charge. For an additional fee, Sprintax can assist you in preparing your state income tax return. 

Northwestern's Foreign National Tax Team

For international students/scholars/employees receiving source income from Northwestern University (including wages and fellowship/scholarship funds).

OISS collaborates with the Foreign National Tax Team within the Office of Human Resources to ensure Northwestern international students and scholars employed by Northwestern or those receiving other source income in the form of scholarship/fellowship funds from NU are provided necessary information and comply with U.S. tax laws.

Learn More

View more information on Northwestern's Human Resources website at Tax Information for Foreign Nationals.

 Walk-in Hours

The Foreign National Tax Team offers both virtual and in-person walk-in hours.  See the current schedule.

Related Content

New Employee Checklist for Foreign Nationals

OISS Sponsored Tax Webinars with Young & Associates Tax & Accounting Firm

See dates and details.

If you need to hire a tax professional

OISS recommends Alejandro Young of Young & Associates, LLC, an income tax and accounting services firm that specializes in all areas of US tax preparation, compliance, and problem resolution.

Additional Resources

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

IRS Foreign Students, Scholars, Teachers, Researchers & Exchange Visitors resource

IRS Claiming Tax Treaty Benefits resource

Illinois Department of Revenue Tax Resources

Tax FAQs - OISS resource of frequently asked questions about taxes from international students and scholars