Hope Tax Credit Available to students enrolled for at least half-time in a degree or certificate-granting program during the first two years of post-secondary education. Provides a tax credit up to $1,500 per student for qualified and related expenditures. Lifetime Learning Tax Credit Available to students for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education course work. Can claim a credit equal to 20% of the first $5,000 per family for education expenses. Qualified tuition and related expenses: Expenses paid after June, 30 1999 Courses must be taken to acquire or improve job skills When does it take effect? The Hope tax credit applies to tuition expenses paid during the 2003 calendar year, beginning, January 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003. This may apply to five quarters if tuition was paid within the time period.