<prompt> Human: I paid just over 10,000 dollars for graduate school this past year. I went to a CPA to file my taxes. I was under the impression that the tuition and education expenses was a FOR AGI deduction, and therefore, I could claim up to 4000 dollars even if I do not itemize. Instead, the CPA firm attached the supplemental Form 8863 and only allowed for a 2000 lifetime learning credit. Am I confused, or has my CPA messed up?  <response>: A deduction reduces your taxable income which is a good thing.A credit reduces your tax which is a great thing.If your Form 8863 indicates you were eligible for the maximum credit 2,000, thats the best possible outcome. 