Tax Year 2026
Do college students have to file taxes?
Depends on income — not status.
There’s no student exemption. The regular 2026 thresholds apply, plus one scholarship rule worth knowing.
2026 Thresholds (Students Claimed as Dependents)
Wages (campus job, internship)Over $16,100
Unearned incomeOver $1,350
Self-employment / gig work$400+ net
The Scholarship Rule
Scholarship money spent on tuition and required fees is tax-free. Amounts covering room and board are taxable income that counts toward the thresholds above — the detail that surprises the most students.
Why Filing Often Pays
Withheld tax from a campus job only comes back if you file. And students who aren’t dependents may claim the American Opportunity Credit — up to $1,000 of it refundable even with zero tax owed.