If you are receiving a US-sourced scholarship or fellowship and are not eligible for a social security number (SSN), then you should make an appointment with the tax advisor to apply for an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). Please note that SSN’s are only available to international students and scholars with an employment offer.
An ITIN or SSN is required to continue receiving scholarships or fellowships after the first year. ITIN’s also allow UT to apply any tax treaty benefits. Tax treaty benefits, if applicable, exempt certain types and amounts of income from US taxation.
Additionally, ITIN’s are necessary to file taxes in the spring if you do not have an SSN. Dependents who are claimed on a tax return will also need an ITIN if they do not have a SSN. If you receive a US-sourced scholarship or fellowship, you are required to file taxes and should apply for an ITIN to avoid delays in filing your tax return.
Both you and your dependents can receive assistance in filing for an ITIN through the International Office. More information about how to apply for an ITIN can be found on our SSN & ITIN section. Please bring all of the documents listed on the website to your appointment. The tax advisor will review all of your application materials, complete the application for an ITIN, and send in your ITIN application on your behalf. The processing time is about a month, so please apply well before the tax season, which runs from late-February to mid-April.
