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.
There are two types of education credits that you can claim on your tax return: the refundable American Opportunity Credit (formerly known as Hope Credit) and the Lifetime Learning Credit. The Student Loan Interest Deduction and Tuition and Fees Deduction are also available for 2016 tax returns.