Lamar University : Affordable Public University in Texas

For international students exploring CPT-friendly schools, Lamar University is a practical option worth considering.

Located in Beaumont, Texas, Lamar University is a public university and a member of the Texas State University System.

For students who prefer a school with a more traditional public university background, Lamar stands out from many private institutions commonly discussed in the CPT-friendly space.

For students who have used their OPT, did not get selected in the H-1B lottery, or need to maintain F-1 status while continuing professional development, Lamar University can be a strong school to add to the shortlist.

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Why the Public University Factor Matters

One of Lamar University’s biggest advantages is simple but important: it is a public university.

Many CPT-friendly schools are private universities. That does not make them bad options. In fact, many private institutions offer flexible formats that work well for full-time professionals. However, some students prefer the structure, recognition, and traditional academic profile of a public university.

That is where Lamar University becomes especially appealing. Lamar gives students another choice: a public university with a more traditional academic profile.

For students who want their next degree to look like a natural step in their academic and career development, this can be an important factor.

Instead of choosing a program only because it may support CPT, students can consider Lamar as a more balanced option: a public university, an MBA program, and a practical pathway for professional development.

Texas Location: Convenient for Students in the South and Central U.S.

Another reason Lamar University attracts attention is its location.

Lamar’s MBA program follows a hybrid format, and students should expect required onsite attendance. In Lamar, students usually attend onsite sessions twice per semester. These sessions are typically arranged in an intensive weekend format, which may include Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday morning.

For students in the Houston area, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, or other nearby regions, Lamar’s location may make onsite attendance more manageable. Instead of flying across the country every term, students may be able to plan around a regional commute.

Texas also offers strong career relevance for MBA students. The state has a large and diverse economy, with opportunities in energy, healthcare, logistics, finance, technology, manufacturing, business operations, and management. For students already working in these fields, studying at a Texas-based university can make the academic and professional connection feel more aligned.

Affordable MBA Tuition: A Key Advantage for F-1 Students

Lamar University’s MBA program is known for being relatively affordable compared with many private CPT-friendly school options.

For the MBA – Experiential Learning Concentration, the estimated program cost is listed at $15,161, with tuition at $505 per credit. 

MBA students should note that the program requires an additional $50 per credit on top of the listed tuition. With this adjustment, the estimated total tuition for a 30-credit MBA program is approximately $16,052.50.

For students planning around OPT expiration, H-1B uncertainty, and long-term immigration costs, Lamar’s lower tuition can make the program a more manageable and cost-effective CPT-friendly MBA option.

Who Should Consider Lamar University?

Lamar University is a strong option for F-1 students who want more than just a CPT-friendly program.

You may want to take a closer look at Lamar if you:

• prefer a public university instead of a private school;
• want an affordable MBA program, with estimated total tuition around $16,052.50 for 30 credits;
• live or work in Texas or nearby states and can attend onsite sessions twice per semester;
• work in business, operations, analytics, marketing, finance, project management, product, or management-related roles;
• need a school option while planning around OPT expiration, H-1B lottery uncertainty, or possible F-1 rule changes.

In short, Lamar is especially worth considering if you want a CPT-friendly school that feels more traditional, cost-effective, and career-focused. If these points sound like your situation, Lamar University may be a strong option to explore further.

Want to learn more about Lamar University ?

Not sure whether Lamar University is the right fit for your situation?

Our advisors can help you review whether Lamar matches your academic background, career goals, and immigration timeline. We can also assist with the application process, document preparation, SEVIS transfer planning, and CPT-related next steps.

Book a free consultation with our advisor today! We can help you evaluate Lamar University, prepare your application, and build a safer plan based on your timeline and goals.