What counts as first four years of college?

[erinmichele25]

I'm looking at claiming the American Opportunity Credit and I'm not sure if I qualify or not.  When they say "first four years of post-secondary education" what does that exactly mean?  I spent about 4 years at a community college because I changed majors.  I graduated from the community college and now I'm pursuing my bachelor's degree.  Since I have not completed my four year degree yet and I have never claimed the American Opportunity Credit, would I qualify?

[blonsteedttax123]

NO, YOU DO NOT QUALIFY

[MargaretL · Accepted solution]

If you received four years academic credit for your 4 years at a community college, then you would not qualify for the American Opportunity Credit, unfortunately.

Please refer below for more details.

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/aotc

[gokce]

What if I completed four years academic credit in a country other than the U.S.? Am I still not eligible?

[MarilynG]

Your educational institution can tell you if you've been awarded four years of college-level credit before the current tax year. If you didn't earn this amount, then you may still be eligible for the American Opportunity Credit.

Here's more info on the American Opportunity Credit. 

@gokce