Can OPT (Optional Practical Training) students on F1 VISA from India claim the standard deduction in 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ under the India Treaty Article 21(2)?

[akrisha]

Can OPT (Optional Practical Training) students on F1 VISA from India claim the standard deduction (currently $6,350) in 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ under the India Treaty Article 21(2)?

[LinaJ2018]

Yes, per IRS, residents of India who were students or business apprentices have an option to take the standard deduction instead of their itemized deductions.