Q. Does that mean I could claim the purchase for my new computer that I made earlier this month?
A. Yes, on your 2025 tax return. A required computer is a qualified educational expense (QEE) for the American Opportunity Credit (AOTC), even if you are not taking online courses.
Q. I go to an online university. Is that eligible for an education credit?
A. Schools that only offer online courses usually do not qualify. Online classes taken at schools that also have classroom instruction usually do count. If they issue a form 1098-T, they probably qualify,
See if your school is on the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Post Secondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP) or the Federal Student Loan Program list. (from IRS web site)
I find this tool easier to use, even though they say it's for 529 plans (it's the same list)
https://www.savingforcollege.com/eligible-institutions
