Comparing Sprintax Alternatives for F-1 Tax Filing in 2027

Explore F-1 nonresident filing routes beyond Sprintax, including a school license, focused self-preparation, trained volunteers, and a tax professional.

If you need Form 1040-NR, there is more than one route. The right alternative depends on your income forms, school access, state returns, treaty questions, and whether you want an electronic filing route or reviewable PDFs. Check current 2027 availability before paying.

Ask whether your school sponsors a nonresident tool

Some international offices provide GLACIER Tax Prep access for eligible students. The vendor also offers an individual-use license when a school does not sponsor access. Ask whether the code covers your tax year and Form 1040-NR, and whether you must prepare any state return separately.

A free school license can be a strong option for a straightforward federal return. Check how it handles your particular scholarship, treaty, and income forms before relying on it.

Consider a focused F-1 workflow or trained volunteer

TaxCurb focuses on F-1 self-preparation, Form 8843, Form 1040-NR, applicable schedules, and limited state and FICA drafts. It provides forms for review and filing guidance. Verify your state and income forms are supported and whether its PDF workflow fits your filing preference.

The IRS trains some VITA volunteers in foreign-student tax rules. Availability and the scope of help vary by local site, so call and ask specifically whether it handles Form 1040-NR and your tax year. An experienced nonresident tax professional is another route for dual-status years, complicated investments, or several states.

Compare the same task and checkout total

Write down every form you need: 1040-NR, 8843, state returns, and any separate FICA claim. Compare the final checkout and whether the provider prepares, reviews, e-files, or only gives a draft. University codes, promotions, bundles, and later prices can change the cost.

TurboTax is not a direct Form 1040-NR substitute: Intuit says it does not support that form. A federal tax resident using Form 1040 has a different set of software choices.

What to do next

Start with any school-supported option, then compare the form coverage and filing method of other routes against your actual situation.

Related guides

Topics: Sprintax alternatives, Form 1040-NR, F-1 tax software

Official sources

General educational information. Tax rules depend on your facts and the tax year; check current IRS instructions before filing.