There is a difference of over $2,000 in my refund when I input my 1098T info vs when I just put in the amount of tuition I paid. What do I need to do to get the credit?

 You need form 1098-T to qualify for education credits or deductions. Eligible colleges or other post-secondary institutions must send Form 1098-T to any student who paid "qualified educational expenses" in the preceding tax year. If there is an entry on line 5 Scholarships or Grants, this amount will reduce the amount of your expenses eligible for the credit since they were paid by scholarships or grants.  1098-T includes tuition, any fees that are required for enrollment, and course materials the student was required to buy from the school.

Additional expenses not included on the form 1098-T such as books, supplies and equipment needed for a course of study are generally also deductible.