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Lifetime Learning Credit — Get Up to $2,000 for Job Skills or Ongoing Higher Education

Difficulty Easy Risk Low Applies To All Potential Savings Up to $2,000 per return Last Verified 2026-04-03

Lifetime Learning Credit — Get Up to $2,000 for Job Skills or Ongoing Higher Education

What Is It?

The Lifetime Learning Credit is a federal education credit worth up to $2,000 per return for qualified tuition and related expenses.

What Most People Don’t Know

  • It is not limited to the first four years of college.
  • Job-skill courses can qualify.
  • You cannot claim it for the same student in the same year that you claim the American Opportunity Credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this only for undergraduate students?


A: No. IRS Publication 970 says it is available for all years of postsecondary education and for courses to acquire or improve job skills.

What is the maximum credit?


A: IRS Publication 970 lists the maximum as up to $2,000 per return.

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