Just a note that you cannot claim the American Opportunity Tax Credit if you’re claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return, such as your parent’s tax return. There's an urban myth among college students that says they can get a $1000 from the government just for filing a tax form. For most of them, they simply aren't eligible. A full time unmarried student, under age 24, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit if he supports himself by working.
