You are not a citizen until you are sworn in. If you are denied because of failure to pass the English or the civics test, you will be automatically rescheduled within 90 days. If you are not approved for some other reason, you may be given time to overcome the problem.
For 2009, the American Opportunity Credit--which is a variation of the Hope Credit--will be allowed for 4 years. For years before and after the new credit is allowed, the Hope credit is supposed to be for 2 years.
You may be able to claim one of the two different student tax credits: 1  American Opportunity Credit: You can claim this credit if your child is in his or her first four years of post-secondary school. The maximum amount you can claim is $2,500 per eligible student, per year.