As colleges and universities continue expanding their global reach, compliance requirements related to payments made to foreign students and scholars have become increasingly complex. From scholarship withholding rules to treaty documentation requirements, institutions must understand their responsibilities under Form 1042 reporting obligations.

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Not-for-Profit podcast series, Melanie McPeak, Managing Director and Tax Leader of the Firm’s Not-for-Profit Industry practice, is joined by Tahira Nagda, Managing Director and Compliance & Provision Lead in Cherry Bekaert’s International Tax practice. Together, they discuss key compliance considerations surrounding Form 1042 reporting for payments made to non-U.S. students and scholars.

Listen to learn about:

• Form 1042 reporting requirements
  • Who qualifies as a foreign person
  • Tax treatment of scholarships and stipends
  • Common withholding rates and treaty exemptions
  • Required documentation, including Forms W-8BEN and 8233
  • Honoraria and common payment classification issues
  • IRS audit focus areas for higher education institutions
  • Penalties and risks tied to noncompliance

This episode is part one of a two-part series on Form 1042 compliance for foreign students and scholars. Cherry Bekaert’s Not-for-Profit and International Tax teams help higher education institutions navigate complex withholding and reporting obligations while strengthening compliance processes.

Connect With Us


View All Not-for-Profit Podcasts

Melanie A. McPeak

Not-for-Profit Tax Leader

Managing Director, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Managing Director, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Tahira Nagda

International Tax Compliance & Provision Lead

Managing Director, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Past Episodes

Tax Beat Podcast thumbnail

April 21, 2026

20:05

Speakers: Sarah McGregor, Michael Wronsky, Martin Karamon

Understand key 2025 tax law changes, including bonus depreciation, cost segregation and Section 179D strategies to improve cash flow in real estate.