As Tax Day looms closer, many college students find themselves stressed, confused and racing to figure out how to file their taxes correctly. Between classes, work and internships, taxes become just another overwhelming item on their growing to-do lists. For students filing independently for the first time, the process can feel especially intimidating.
“I didn’t even really know where to start,” freshman Jana Helou said. “There are all these forms, W-2s, 1098-Ts, and I didn’t know which ones applied to me. I just kept Googling ‘How to file taxes as a student’ over and over.”
Some students turn to their parents for help, while others use online platforms like TurboTax or H&R Block, hoping the software will guide them through the maze. Even so, not all situations are simple, especially for students with multiple income sources or those who receive financial aid. Scholarships, part-time jobs and campus employment can all complicate the process.
“I work at a restaurant, tutor on the side, and have a scholarship,” freshman Sophie Miller said. “I had no idea which of those were taxable and which weren’t. It honestly made me scared I’d mess something up and owe money later. I wish they taught us this while still in high school.”
Adding to the confusion is the fact that not all students are taught how to file taxes in high school or even college. Many feel unprepared for the real-world responsibilities that come with adulthood. Some wish universities would offer workshops or resources to walk them through the process step by step.
“I know how to analyze a poem, but no one taught me how to file a tax return,” Helou said. “Even just a quick seminar would be helpful, something to explain what to do and what not to do. I feel like we’re just thrown into it once we hit adulthood.”
Others expressed concern about making mistakes, especially when using tax software on their own. The fear of being audited, underreporting income or forgetting to claim an education credit can weigh heavily. For some, the anxiety becomes paralyzing.
“I kept putting it off because I didn’t want to deal with it,” Miller said. “But the deadline kept getting closer and I realized I couldn’t just avoid it. Now I’ve set aside an entire Saturday to figure it out, hopefully it all goes well, and I can always ask my parents for help.”
Despite the stress, a few students found silver linings. Some mentioned the relief of getting a refund, while others felt a sense of pride in handling the task themselves. Learning how to file, even with challenges, gave them a feeling of independence.
“It was a pain, but now I feel more adult,” Helou said. “I did it on my own, and I actually got money back. It wasn’t fun, but it was worth it.”
As April 15 nears, students continue to navigate tax season with a mix of frustration, determination and learning. Whether they file early or scramble at the last minute, they’re gaining real-world skills not found in textbooks. And for many, this stressful season is also a rite of passage into adulthood.
