Sprintax, GLACIER, or TaxCurb? An F-1 Filing Comparison
Compare federal forms, state needs, school-sponsored access, filing delivery, and public price snapshots for F-1 nonresidents.
All three names can appear when an F-1 student searches for Form 1040-NR help, but they serve different workflows. Compare the exact tax year, documents, state needs, and filing method. The prices here are public snapshots checked in October 2026, not guaranteed 2027 checkout prices.
Sprintax: broad nonresident coverage
Sprintax lists federal nonresident preparation, separate state return preparation, Form 8843, and other services on its FAQ. Its posted individual prices include $54.95 for federal preparation and $49.95 per state. The actual total may differ with a school access code, bundle, support option, or a later price change.
A student who needs an eligible federal e-file workflow or multiple state filings may value Sprintax’s broader supported routes. Check its current eligibility questions and final checkout.
GLACIER Tax Prep: ask your school
GLACIER Tax Prep is a nonresident federal tax tool. Some universities sponsor free access for their students and scholars; the vendor also lists a $49 individual-use license. Its state tax coverage should be checked separately. A free school code can make it the least costly federal option for an eligible student.
Confirm whether the school’s access applies to your tax year and whether a separate state return must be prepared elsewhere.
TaxCurb: focused F-1 document workflow
TaxCurb currently lists a $9.99 Form 8843 package, $29 federal package, and $39 federal-plus-one-applicable-state package. It is designed around F-1 self-preparation and provides reviewable form drafts and filing guidance. Confirm your specific income forms and state draft are supported; the state package is not a promise of every state form.
TaxCurb’s current workflow is not a substitute for a provider’s electronic filing capability when e-file is your priority. Review the generated forms before signing or mailing.
What to do next
There is no universal winner. Use a school-sponsored tool if it fully covers your case, choose broader support if you need it, or choose the focused TaxCurb workflow when its supported forms fit.
Related guides
Topics: Nonresident tax software, Sprintax, GLACIER Tax Prep, TaxCurb
Official sources
General educational information. Tax rules depend on your facts and the tax year; check current IRS instructions before filing.