¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ

1. Admission

Applicants for admission to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ are required to meet the academic requirements outlined in this catalog or other applicable publications of the university. The Admissions Visitor Center, located in the John Gray Center, Herman Iles building, provides complete admissions counseling for entering students. Professionally trained personnel are available to assist prospective students throughout the admissions process. Initial inquiries to the university may be made through /admissions, by calling (409) 880-8888 or by writing to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, P.O. Box 10009, Beaumont, Texas 77710.

State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy

Texas Education Code (TEC) 51.803-51.809 (State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy) requires that all students meet one of the following college readiness standards in order to be eligible to be considered for admission at a Texas Four-Year Public Institution:

• Successfully complete the recommended or advanced/distinguished high school program or complete the portion of the program that was available to them; or
• Successfully complete a curriculum that is equivalent in content and rigor to the recommended or advanced/distinguished high school program at a high school that is exempt from offering such programs; or
• Satisfy the College Readiness Benchmarks on the SAT or ACT assessment.
  SAT – 1500 out of 2400 (Verbal + Math + Writing)
  ACT – 18 English, 21 Reading, 22 Mathematics and 24 Science

Exemptions from the Policy. To claim an exemption from the policy, students must submit one of the two Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board exemption forms completed by the high school counselor or other school official in addition to all other required credentials for admission by the January 15th closing date. The forms below can be printed and submitted via the instructions on either form:

1. Form 1 – For Students who entered Grade 9 BEFORE the 2007-2008 School Year
2. Form 2 – For Students who entered Grade 9 in 2007-2008 or LATER

1. Beginning Freshmen

A beginning freshman student should submit all of the following documentation:

1. Complete the undergraduate application at
2. Submit official SAT or ACT scores sent directly from the testing agency. Use SAT Code 6360 or ACT Code 4114.
3. Submit the high school transcript showing class size and class rank.  Note:  Upon graduation, you must provide a final high school transcript that includes class rank, date of graduation, and graduation plan.

Unconditional Admission Requirements

High School Class Rank	SAT (math + critical reading)	ACT
Top 10%	No minimum required	No minimum required
Top 11% to 25%	850	18
2nd Quarter	930	20
3rd  or 4th Quarter	1000	21
Non-Accredited, Unranked, Home Schooled or GED	1000	21

I Will Enrollment Agreement

Students who do not meet the requirements for “unconditional admission” to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ will be considered on an individual approval basis termed I Will enrollment. ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ is committed to higher educational opportunity and recognizes that traditional formal admission requirements are imperfect predictors of student success. Effort, dedication, and related intangible factors do matter; hence, I Will. Lamar is equally committed to student success and behaviors indicative of future achievement. I Will students begin their college careers within a structured higher educational environment specifically created with their needs, the needs of their fellow students, and the requirements of the university in mind. Prospective students who do not meet the requirements for “unconditional admission” will be reviewed for individual approval and notified if I Will enrollment is offered to them.

Exceptions

1. Any applicant over 25 years of age will be granted admission with proof of high school graduation and presentation of official SAT or ACT scores.
2. A non-high school graduate who is at least 18 years of age may apply for admission under Individual Approval provisions. Such applicants must 1) demonstrate the aptitude and seriousness of purpose to successfully pursue a college course of study and 2) furnish evidence of preparation substantially equivalent to that required of other applicants. Evidence must include a GED, SAT or ACT score, and transcripts of previous academic work.
3. The Director of Admissions may admit recipients of bona fide scholarships designated by the president.

2. When to Apply

Applicants are encouraged to apply and submit all documentation as early as possible. Final application deadlines are typically several weeks prior to the beginning of each semester. For deadline information specific to the semester that you plan to attend, please visit /admissions/.

3. Acceptance Notices

Acceptance notices are issued to the email address listed on the ApplyTexas Application shortly after the required admission credentials are received. Questions about acceptance may be directed to the Office of Admissions (409) 880-8888 or /admissions. ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ has no enrollment quota. Applicants may check their admission status at www.lamar.edu/admissions-status

4. On-Campus Living Requirement for Freshmen

The Board of Regents has established a freshman residency policy that states: "All undergraduate, full-time students (those enrolled in 12 or more semester credit hours) with fewer than 24 earned semester credit hours are required to reside in a University-operated residence hall." Exemptions may be granted for those who 1) reside with a parent, guardian, or other adult relative; 2) are 21 years of age by the first class day; 3) enroll only in evening classes; 4) are married or have dependent children; 5) have a medical exemption signed by a doctor; or 6) have earned 24 or more credit hours.” Official documentation verifying exemptions to this policy may be required by the university Housing Office. Questions concerning this policy should be directed to the Cardinal Village Housing Office.

5. Residency Status

A student's state of residency is determined prior to first enrollment in accordance with rules and regulations established by the Texas State Legislature and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Detailed information on residency is available at the State website or by contacting the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Admissions Office.

6. New Student Orientation

New student orientation is held during the summer months and is designed to acquaint the new students and their families with campus facilities and services. 

Students are encouraged to complete course registration prior to attending their orientation session and tuition and fees may be paid while attending. Advance reservations for the summer orientation sessions are required. Details of the program, including dates, cost, and registration, are available on the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ web site and are provided to new students after acceptance to the university.

7. Undergraduate Advising Center

Freshmen and sophomores with fewer than 60 credit hours are advised in the Undergraduate Advising Center (UAC). The UAC supports the mission of ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ by enhancing student development and success through exemplary service, collaboration, and support in academic advising. The UAC facilitates student success and engagement by advising, enrolling, tracking, and referring students to faculty, departments, support services, and activities. The UAC proactively assesses and responds to student needs as professional advisors meet multiple times each semester to formulate the appropriate plan for student success toward degree completion. 

Students with over 60 credit hours meet with advisors within their academic major.

Extensive advisement opportunities for Juniors and Seniors are also available through the Offices of Student Advising and Retention Services (STARS). Detailed information is available at /student-advising-and-retention/.

8. Credit by Examination

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ students may qualify for college credit and/or advanced standing through optional testing programs. Students may qualify for credit through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), the Advanced Placement Examinations (AP) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Scores must be official and will only be accepted from CLEP, AP, or IB sources.

Except for satisfying the course work in residence and the state-mandated American History and American Government requirements, credit earned by examination is equivalent to credit earned by taking the course and may be used to satisfy bachelor´s degree requirements as defined in the catalog under "Degree Requirements." CLEP/AP test and score requirements are subject to change without notice. Please note that no more than 30 semester credit hours may be applied toward a bachelor's degree.

1. College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ awards credit on the basis of most of the Subject Examinations of the College Level Examination Programs. The essay sections of the English composition and literature examinations are required, and the final determination for the awarding of equivalent English credit is based solely upon the strength of the written essays. Credit will not be awarded by examination to students who have prior credit for the same course or its equivalent. Grades will not be assigned, nor will hours be used, in the computation of grade point averages.

CLEP CREDIT-GRANTING STANDARDS

 

Composition and Literature

Examination	Credit-granting Score	Credit Granted	Equiv. course
American Literature	50	3 hours	ENGL 2326
Analyzing and Interpreting Literature	50	3 hours	ENGL 1302
College Composition Modular	50	3 hours	ENGL 1301
English Literature	50	3 hours	ENGL 2310, 2320, or 2322 *Students will select the course for which they wish to receive credit

*Note: To receive CLEP credit for composition or literature classes, students must achieve the established credit-granting score of 50 (or higher), AND complete the optional essays. All examinees will have six months to complete the essay portion once they have passed the multiple choice section. If examinee has not completed the essay portion within this time period, examinee will have to retake the multiple choice section of the test. Essays are graded by the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ CLEP Committee. The final determination for awarding of equivalent credit is based solely upon the strength of the written essays. The ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ CLEP Committee will score the essays within two to four weeks and send results to the Career and Testing Center. Examinee will receive score results within three to five weeks from time of exam completion.

Business

Examination	Credit-Granting Score	Credit Granted	Equiv. course
Financial Accounting	55	6 hours	ACCT 2301/2302
Business Law, Intro.	50	3 hours	BULW 3310
Info. Systems & Computer Applications	50	3 hours	see Note below
Prin. of Management	50	3 hours	MGMT 3310
Prin. of Marketing	50	3 hours	MKTG 3310

*Note: A student, after passing the Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP Exam, must demonstrate proficiency on a program or package usage test in the Computer Science Department before they may receive credit in the following 3-hour course: COSC 1371. The Computer Science Department will score the exam within 48 hours and send the results to the Career and Testing Center. Examinee will receive score results within 7 business days of completing the exam.

History and Social Sciences

Examination	Credit-Granting Score	Credit Granted	Equiv. course
Am. Government	50	3 hours	POLS 2302
Ed. Psych.	50	3 hours	PEDG 3320
Intro. to US History I (to 1877)	50	3 hours	HIST 1301
Intro. to US History II (1866 to present)	50	3 hours	HIST 1302
Human Growth & Development	50	3 hours	PSYC 2315
Prin. of Macroeconomics	50	3 hours	ECON 2302
Prin. of Microeconomics	50	3 hours	ECON 2301
Intro. to Psychology	50	3 hours	PSYC 2301
Intro. to Sociology	50	3 hours	SOCI 1301
W. Civilization I (to 1648)	50	3 hours	HIST 3321
W. Civilization II (1648 to present)	50	3 hours	HIST 3322

Science and Mathematics

Examination	Credit-Granting Score	Credit Granted	Equiv. Course
College Algebra	50	3 hours	MTH 1314
Biology*	50	6 hours	Genl. Biology
Calculus, Geometry	50	3 hours	MTH 2413
Chemistry*	50	6 hours	Genl. Chemistry
Pre-Calculus	50	3 hours	MTH 2312

*Note: will not fulfill core lab science requirement

Foreign Language

Examination	Credit-Granting Score	Credit Granted	Equiv. Course
French Level 1	50	6 hours	FREN 1311, 1312
French Level II	59	12 hours	FREN 1311, 1312, 2311, 2312
German Level I	50	6 hours	GERM 1311, 1312
German Level II	60	12 hours	GERM 1311, 1312, 2311, 2312
Spanish Level 1	50	6 hours	SPAN 1311, 1312
Spanish Level II	63	12 hours	SPAN 1311, 1312, 2311, 2312

2. Advanced Placement Examinations

Applicants who wish to receive credit for college-level work completed in high school may do so by submitting scores from the College Entrance Examination Board´s Advanced Placement Examinations. Examinations are given each May by high schools. Arrangements are made through high school counselors. Subject matter areas and the basis for granting credits are listed as follows:

Subject Area	Required Score	Credit Granted
Art	3 or above	ARTS 1316 or ARTS 1311
Biology	3 or above	BIOL 1406 1407
Calculus AB test	3 or above	MATH 1325 or MATH 2413
Calculus BC test	3 or above	MATH 2312, 2413 and 2414
Chemistry	3 or above	CHEM 1111 and 1311
Computer Science A test	4 or 5	COSC 1336
Economics (micro)	3 or above	ECON 2302
Economics (macro)	3 or above	ECON 2301
English Language Comp.	4 or 5	ENGL 1301, 1302
English Language Comp.	3	ENGL 1301
English Lit Comp.	3 or above	ENGL 1302
Foreign Language	3	FL 1311
Foreign Language	4	FL 1311, 1312
Foreign Language	5	FL 1311, 1312, and 2311
Government/Compar.	3 or above	3 hour elective (non advanced)
Government/Pol. Sci.	3 or above	POLS 2302
History/American	3 or above	HIST 1301-1302
Music	3 or above	MUTY 1211 and MUTY 1116
Psychology (Gen)	3 or above	PSYC 2301
Physics B	3 or above	PHYS 1401-1402
Physics C (Mechanics)	3 or above	PHYS 2425
Physics C (E & M)	3 or above	PHYS 2426
Statistics	3 or above	MATH 1342

3. Advanced Standing Examinations

Advanced Standing Examinations (ASE) for undergraduate courses are intended only for those students who have learned the equivalent, in formal or informal training, of the academic content being presented in the undergraduate course in question. To secure approval for such an examination, a student must obtain the written permission of the department chair and dean of the college in which the course is taught prior to the end of late registration an any long semester or the summer term. A fee of $50 per semester credit hour - which may be changed without notice upon request by the chair and approval of the dean and provost - must be paid in advance of the examination to the Cashier's Office. Application forms are available in the office of each department chair and dean, and a copy is posted on the Academic Affairs website. Advanced Standing Examinations will not be approved for skill courses or graduate courses, and each college and/or department will maintain and post on its website a list of courses (if any) approved for completion through Advanced Standing Examinations. A student may not use the university's  Grade Replacement Policy on an Advanced Standing Examination to improve a course grade. The grade a student earns on an Advanced Standing Examination is awarded for the course (A-F), and will appear on the academic  transcript with a notation indicating credit by Advanced Standing Examination. Credit earned through an Advanced Standing Examination is equivalent to credit earned by taking the course, and may be used to satisfy bachelor's degree requirements as defined in the catalog under "Degree Requirements".

The process for gaining approval to take an Advanced Standing Examination in a particular undergraduate course and for completing the examination and receiving a grade is as follows:

1. The student schedules an appointment with the chair of the department in which the course is offered to request credit by Advanced Standing Examination.
2. The chair informs the student of existence of CLEP examinations, if appropriate, and the differences between those and the ASE.
3. The student must convince the chair that he/she has the potential to complete successfully an ASE, based upon prior studying/learning, whether formal or informal (documented, if possible). If that is the case, the chair signs the ASE Request Form tenative approval line (top portion of request form), ensures that the information appearing above his/her signature is complete and accurate, and gives it to the student.
4. If the chair is convinced that the administration of an ASE is appropriate, he/she then seeks a faculty member who is wiling to: (a) meet no more than twice with the student to discuss the specific content which the ASE will cover as well as inform the student of the textbook(s) currently used in the course; (b) develop a comprehensive final examination fo the course (i.e., the ASE); (c) administer, monitor, and grade the examination; and (d) submit the appropriate course grade (A-F) to the Office of the Registrar in 109 Wimberly Building.
5. In the event that the chair finds a faculty member willing to do the above, the chair contacts and meets again with the student, signs the final approval line of the second section of the ASE Request Form, ensures that the information appearing above the faculty member's signature line is complete and accurate, and returns it to the student.
6. The student must obtain the signature of the faculty member(normally at the meeting described in item 4 above) and the dean, and then takes the signed document to a Teller at the window on the first floor of the Wimberly Building, where he/she pays the fee and obtains a receipt. (Note: the student retains the form and attaches the receipt to it)
7. The student returns to the faculty member and provides him/her with the form and receipt indicating that the fee has been paid, which is the impetus for the creation of the ASE by the faculty member and the establishment of a date and time for the administration of the ASE.
8. The faculty member administers, monitors and grades the ASE, submits the grade via memorandum to the Records Office and informs the student (in writing) of the grade awarded.
9. This concludes the process, though a grade can be appealed through the normal Grade Appeal Process.

Online Students

The process for gaining approval for students taking all of their LU courses online is as follows:

1. The student schedules a meeting via telephone or e-mail with the chair of the department in which the course is offered to request credit by Advanced Standing Examination (ASE). The meeting may be conducted via telephone, video conferencing, or e-mail.
2. The chair informs the student of the existence of CLEP examinations, if appropriate, and the difference between these and the ASE.
3. The student must convince the chair that he/she has the potential to complete successfully an ASE, based upon prior study/learning, whether formal or informal (documented, if possible). If that is the case, the student provides, via e-mail or fax, the Advanced Standing Examination Request Form with the first four lines completed. The chair signs the ASE tenative approval line in the top portion of the request form, ensures that the information appearing above his/her signature is complete and accurate, and e-mails or faxes it to the student.
4. The chair then seeks a faculty member who is willing to: (a) meet no more than twice via telephone, video conferencing or e-mail with the student to discuss the specific content which the ASE will cover as well as inform the student of the textbook(s) currently used in the course; (b) develop a comprehensive final examination for the course (i.e., the ASE): (c) administer, monitor, and grade the examination; and (d) submit the appropriate course grade (A-F_ to the Office of the Registrar in 109 Wimberly Building.
5. In the event that the chair finds a faculty member willing to do the above, the chair signs the final approval line of the second section of the ASE Request Form, and ensures that the information appearing above the faculty member's signature line is complete and accurate. The chair obtains the signature of the faculty member and the dean, and then sends the form via fax or e-mail to the student, informing him/her that the ASE has been approved and the fee should be paid.
6. The student then contacts Cashiering, pays the fee, and obtains a receipt via either fax or e-mail (see the information relative to contacting Cashiering in the introductory section above).
7. The student meets electronically or by phone with the faculty member after providing him/her with the form and receipt indicating that the fee has been paid, which is the impetus for the creation of the ASE by the faculty member and the establishment of a date and time for the administration of the ASE.
8. The faculty member administers, monitors and grades the ASE, submits the grade via memorandum to the Records Office and informs the student (in writing) of the grade awarded. (Note: If the exam is proctored remotely, the student will have to pay an additional fee, determined by the length of the examination, directly to ProctorU. The faculty member will provide the student with instructions as to how to do this.)
9. This concludes the process, though the grade can be appealed through the normal Grade Appeal Process.

4. International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ recognizes the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Students who receive an IB diploma and receive scores of "4" or above on Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL) examinations will be awarded a minimum of 24 semester credit hours (See table). Students who have not received an IB diploma may be granted credit on an individual course-by-course basis as determined by participating academic departments. A copy of the official IB transcript must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to receive transfer credit. All applicable Texas statutes and ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ policies must be complied with and are still in effect for course transferability.

International Baccalaureate Program

Examination	Credit-Granting Score	Credit Granted	Equiv. Course
GROUP 1-Language
English	HL	6 hours	ENGL 1301, 1302
	SL	3 hours	ENGL 1301
Extended Essay	A or B	3 hours	ENGL 1302
GROUP 2-Second Language
Spanish	HL	12 hours	SPAN 1311, 1312, 2311, 2312
	SL	6 hours	SPAN 1311, 1312
French	HL	12 hours	FREN 1311, 1312, 2311, 2312
	SL	6 hours	FREN 1311, 1312
German	HL	12 hours	GERM 1311, 1312, 2311, 2312
	SL	6 hours	GERM 1311, 1312
GROUP 3-Individuals and Societies
History Europe	HL or SL	3 hours	HIST 3322
History Americas	HL	6 hours	HIST 1301, 1302
	SL	3 hours	HIST 1301
Economics	HL	6 hours	ECON 2301, 2302
	SL	3 hours	ECON 2301
Psychology	HL or SL	3 hours	PSYC 2301
Anthropology	HL or SL	3 hours	ANTH 2351
GROUP 4-Experimental Science
Chemistry	HL	8 hours	CHEM 1411, 1412
	SL	4 hours	CHEM 1411
Biology	HL	8 hours	BIOL 1406, 1407
	SL	4 hours	BIOL 1406
Physics	HL	8 hours	PHYS 1401, 1402
	SL	4 hours	PHYS 1401
GROUP 5-Math and Computer Science
Mathematics	HL	4 hours	MATH 2413
Math Studies	SL	3 hours	MATH 1325
Further Math	SL	3 hours	MATH 1316
Computer Science	HL	6 hours	COSC 1336, 1337
	SL	3 hours	COSC 1336
GROUP 6-Arts
Visual Arts A	HL or SL	3 hours	THEA 1310
Visual Arts B	HL or SL	3 hours	Fine Arts 1301
Music	HL or SL	3 hours	MUSI 1306

9. Admission Requirements for College Transfers

Students who have attended another regionally accredited college or university will be considered for admission to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ under the requirements listed below. Former students of ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, who attend another university, will also have to meet the following transfer admission requirements:

1. Submit a transfer application for admission at .
2. Submit official transcripts from each college previously attended. This requirement applies regardless of the length of time in attendance and regardless of whether credit was earned or is desired. Students will not be allowed to register until all college transcripts are on file. Failure to disclose previous college attendance is justification for revocation of acceptance and dismissal from ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.
3. Have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale for all work attempted, and be eligible to re-enter all colleges and universities previously attended.
4. Students transferring fewer than 18 semester credit hours must submit a high school transcript, take the SAT or ACT and have an official record of these scores sent to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.
5. Applicants not fully meeting all transfer requirements may be reviewed and considered for admission on an Individual Approval basis.

10. Application Fee

A one-time, non-refundable undergraduate application fee of $25.00 is charged to all new undergraduate, first-time-in-college applicants and transfer students. Returning and readmitted students will not be assessed this fee. Concurrently enrolled high school students will not be assessed this fee but will be subject to it upon application as a first-time-in-college student after high school graduation.

Application fee waivers will be granted based upon receipt of The College Board or ACT college application fee waiver requests.

11. Transfer Credit Evaluation

Credit earned at other regionally accredited institutions will be considered for credit at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ under the following policies:

1. All courses, whether passed, failed or repeated, are used in calculating a transfer grade point average. The transfer grade point average is used solely to determine admission status and is not incorporated into the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ grade point average. NOTE: Transfer work will not be used in determining honors graduation status.
2. "D" grades are transferable, but some ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ departments may refuse to count them toward a degree.
3. Transfers from community/junior colleges are limited to 66 semester hours or the number of hours required by the university during the freshman and sophomore years in the degree plan in which the student plans to enroll. No lower-division (1000 or 2000 level) college credits will be considered for transfer as upper-division (3000 or 4000) credits.
4. Acceptance to the university does not constitute acceptance to a particular degree program.
5. Transfer students will be informed of the amount of credit that will transfer no later than the end of the first academic term in which they are enrolled.

American Council on Education (ACE) Credit

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ accepts all transfer credits meeting ACE guidelines. Students enrolled in programs that grant ACE credit must submit official ACE transcripts. Non-equivalent credit is granted by the university; however, equivalent credit may be granted by a department chair for use in a specific degree plan.

Transfer of Military Credit

Credit may be granted for military experience. Credit will be evaluated based upon the evaluation recommendations outlined in the American Council on Education (ACE) Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services manual. Students must submit one of the following documents:

For veteran service members: Form DD214 or Form DD256 as well as their military transcript (SMART for Navy, Marine Corps; Coast Guard Institute for Coast Guard; AARTS for Army; and CCAF for Air Force).

For active duty service members: Current military ID and their military transcript (SMART for Navy, Marine Corps; Coast Guard Institute for Coast Guard; AARTS for Army; and CCAF for Air Force).

12. Academic Fresh Start

Applicants seeking transfer admission or readmission, and who have academic credits or grades that were earned ten or more years prior to the semester in which enrollment is sought, may elect to seek entry under the terms of academic fresh start. Under this policy, the applicant may petition ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ not to consider in the admission process and in the calculation of GPA course credits or grades earned 10 years or prior. Applicants seeking entry under this section will not receive any credit for any courses taken 10 or more years prior to enrollment. Applicants applying under Academic Fresh Start are subject to all standard admission and testing criteria applicable to persons seeking admission.

13. Resolution of Transfer Disputes for Lower-division Courses

The following procedures shall be followed in the resolution of credit transfer disputes involving lower-division courses:

1. If ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ does not accept course credit earned by a student at another institution of higher education, the university shall give written notice to the student and to the sending institution that transfer of the course credit is denied. The university shall also provide written notice of the reasons for denying credit for a particular course or set of courses at the request of the sending institution.
2. A student who receives notice as specified in item (1) of this section may dispute the denial of credit by contacting a designated official at either the sending or the receiving institution.
3. The two institutions and the student shall attempt to resolve the transfer of the course credit in accordance with The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board rules and guidelines.
4. If the transfer dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student or the sending institution within 45 days after the date the student received written notice of denial, the institution that denies the course credit for transfer shall notify the Texas Commissioner of Higher Education of its denial and the reasons for the denial.

The Commissioner of Higher Education or the commissioner´s designee shall make the final determination about a dispute concerning the transfer of course credit and give written notice of the determination to the relevant student and institutions.

14. Readmission for Former Students

Former Lamar students who have not registered or been in attendance for more than one long semester year must complete the application for undergraduate readmission at . Students who left on suspension must receive written clearance from their advisor to be eligible for readmission.

Former students who have attended another college are required to submit official transcripts of all work done subsequent to the last date of attendance at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, and to meet the academic requirements for other transfer students outlined in this bulletin.

15. Summer Transients (Summer Only)

Summer transient students are undergraduate students who attend another college or university in the Spring semester and enter ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ for the summer only with the intent of returning to the primary institution upon completion of summer enrollment.

Students who attend another college in the spring semester who wish to do summer work only at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ may be admitted as transient students. A summer transient student must submit a transient application online at . Official academic transcript that verifies Spring semester enrollment.   Official academic transcripts of previous college work are also required to determine academic prerequisite fulfillment.  A cumulative 2.0 GPA is required.

Transient students must comply with the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) (/center-for-college-readiness/), which requires all students to demonstrate their readiness for college-level courses prior to enrollment. If official academic transcripts do not indicate TSI status, students must provide scores on a TSI-approved placement test or evidence of exemption.

Transient students who later apply for regular admission to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ must meet all entrance requirements for transfer students.

16. International Students

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ welcomes students from around the world for both undergraduate and graduate study. All admissions documents, including applications, are processed by the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Admissions Office. After acceptance, staff in the International Student Services Office communicate with students regarding other documents needed to process the I-20. These offices work together to provide a pleasant admission and enrollment experience.

International Undergraduate Admission Categories

Regular Admission is reserved for students who meet all university, departmental, and language proficiency admission requirements.

Bridge Admission is offered to students who meet all university and departmental admission requirements but who have not yet satisfied the language proficiency requirement. These students will be enrolled in academic courses at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ and in language courses at the Texas Intensive English Program (TIEP) at Lamar.

Conditional Admission is offered to students who meet all university requirements except for language proficiency.  Conditionally admitted students are required to enroll full time in the Texas Intensive English Program at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.  Upon completion or the advanced level of English study, these students are eligible for admission to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.

Intensive English Program Admission is available to students whose need of significant English language training prevents their immediate enrollment at the post-secondary level. Students interested in language training only may apply directly to Texas Intensive English Program at Lamar without being considered for ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ admission.

International Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Freshman: International students who have never been enrolled at a post-secondary college or university must submit all required documents and show evidence of a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on all secondary school work.

Undergraduate Transfer: International students who have been enrolled at another post-secondary college or university and would like to transfer into an undergraduate degree program at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ must submit all required documents and show evidence of a 2.5 grade point average on all secondary and post-secondary school work

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Undergraduate Admissions P.O. Box 10009 Beaumont TX 77710

How to Apply

1. Submit Application. All international applicants should submit online applications through the Apply Texas system. International Freshman applicants should submit the International Freshman Application. International Transfer applicants should submit the International Transfer Application. When completing these applications, please use your name as it appears on your passport.

2. Submit Transcripts. International Freshman applicants should have an official report of course-by-course evaluated transcripts of all secondary work sent to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ directly by the evaluating agency. International Transfer applicants should have an official report of course-by-course evaluated transcripts of all secondary and post-secondary work sent to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ directly by the evaluating agency.  Failure to disclose previous college attendance is justification for revocation of acceptance and dismissal from ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.

3. Submit Admission Test Scores. International Freshman and International Transfer applicants are encouraged to have scores on the SAT or ACT issued to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ directly by the testing agency.

4. Provide Proof of English Language Proficiency. International applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency through scores on the TOEFL or IELTS. This testing requirement is waived only for applicants who have completed at least two consecutive years of study at a college or university in the U.S. or in an English proficiency-exempt country. Scores are valid for two years, and must be received directly from the testing agency. 

Undergraduate (Freshman & Transfer) English Proficiency Requirements

	Regular Admission	Bridge Admission	TIEP Admission
TOEFL Internet-Based Total	79	61	Below 61
TOEFL Paper-Based Total	550	500	Below 500
IELTS Total	6.5	6.0	Below 6.0

Mailing Documents

 Copies of transcripts should be sent to the appropriate address below:

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Undergraduate Admissions PO Box 10009 Beaumont, TX 77710

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Graduate Admissions PO Box 11614 Beaumont, TX 77710

By Courier ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Office of Admissions 211 Redbird Lane Beaumont, TX 77710

Acceptance Notices

Acceptance notices are issued to the email address listed on the ApplyTexas Application shortly after the required admission credentials are received.

Application Deadlines

Applicants should submit materials as soon as possible to allow time for visa interview appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, which may have wait times of days or weeks.

Fall (August) Priority Deadline: April 15, Final Deadline: July 1

Spring (January) Priority Deadline: Sept. 1, Final Deadline: Dec 1

Summer (June) Priority Deadline: Jan. 15, Final Deadline: April 15

Application Fee

A one-time, non-refundable undergraduate application fee of $75.00 is charged to all new undergraduate, first-time-in-college applicants and transfer students, returning and readmitted.

17. Early Admission Programs

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ offers many opportunities for qualified students who wish to attend college while still in high school. The credit earned can be applied to degree programs at Lamar or transferred to other colleges and universities in accordance with the transfer policies of the degree-granting institution. In some instances, students may simultaneously receive credit for both high school and college courses.

Dual Credit – A course taken for dual credit earns the student college credit while also satisfying high school graduation requirements. Assignment of dual high school credit is the responsibility of the high school and the student. Students seeking dual credit for earned college hours must contact their high school for specific high school requirements.

Early College Credit – This is a program in which students earn college credit only.

Early Entry Programs

Early College Entry – Allows high school students to take university courses on the Lamar campus in a traditional classroom setting.

Distance Education – Allows accelerated high school students to earn both high school and college credit while attending daytime classes on the high school campus. Two-way interactive video links a university faculty member with a class on the University campus to classrooms in regional high schools. Based on the high school´s need and student interest, ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ can also provide a faculty member for on-site instruction.

Lamar Early Access Program (LEAP) – The ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Early Access Program is a cooperative venture between Lamar and participating high schools allowing high school juniors and seniors to take university courses taught by their high school teachers on the high school campus. The high school teacher must hold a master´s degree in the teaching discipline or a master´s degree with 18 graduate hours in the teaching discipline. To establish LEAP, the high school principal should contact the Center for Distance Education.

On-Line Dual Credit – On-line dual credit courses are offered in various formats through Lamar Online. All dual credit students (no matter what format) must meet all university requirements for early admission. Students taking dual credit through the Texas Virtual School Network must apply and be approved through that agency. Students should contact their high school counselor to initiate TSVSN application.

Texas Academy of Leadership in the Humanities (TALH) (Dual Credit) – The Texas Academy of Leadership in the Humanities (TALH) an early college entrance residential honors program created by the Texas Legislature that allows academically qualified high school-aged students in the state to earn university credits towards a college degree. Students are considered full-time university students. Students live on campus and enroll in a full-time university curriculum. Graduates of TALH are awarded a diploma from the Academy. The typical TALH graduate will earn 60 hours of college credit after two years of study. Required for admission are academic transcripts from the 8th grade to date, a minimum SAT composite score (550 on the critical reading and 500 on the math portions), an autobiographical essay, and at least two recommendations from teachers/administrators familiar with the student´s abilities and character. The successful candidate will have a superior academic record and SAT score and supporting application materials evidencing the personal integrity, sense of responsibility, and level of maturity requisite for success in the program. Tuition and fees are fully subsidized 15 credit hours. Applicants are strongly urged to submit their application for the fall semester by March 31. Additional information is available by contacting the program director at (409) 839-2995.

Dual Credit Admission Requirements:

Applicants for early admissions programs must meet the following criteria:

1. Complete an application for admission at
2. Submit high school counselor approval to the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Dual Credit Coordinator
3. Submit official high school transcript
4. submit SAT, PSAT, ACT or PLAN scores

AND

Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Compliance.

Students must meet one of the following:

a. Be exempt from TSI. Test scores that exempt a student from THEA are SAT Composite Score—1070 (with minimum 500 Verbal and 500 Math) ACT Composite Score—23 (with minimum 19 Verbal and 19 Math) TAKS—2200 Math; 2200 English; Writing 3 or higher; STAAR EOC Level-II Final Scale score in Algebra II or English III.

OR

b. Meet ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ standards on an appropriate TSI placement test as described at /center-for-college-readiness/.

Prior to being enrolled, achieve TSI scores listed below: The selection of courses is determined on the basis of the student´s high school background, the recommendation of the high school counselor, and assessment of the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ academic advisor. These classes generate college credit. Any use of these credits toward high school graduation is at the discretion of the high school and must be approved by the high school prior to enrollment at Lamar.

Course Number	Course Title	Official TSI Score Required
Communication 1315	Public Speaking I	351 Reading and 363/5 Writing
Economics 2302	Principles of Economics II	351 Reading and 363/5 Writing
English 1301	Composition I	351Reading and 363/5 Writing
English 1302	Composition II	351Reading and 363/5 Writing
English 2320	British Literature	351Reading and 363/5 Writing
English 2326	American Literature	351Reading and 363/5 Writing
English 2331	World Literature	351Reading and 363/5 Writing
History 1301	US History I	351Reading
History 1302	US History II	351Reading
Math 1314	College Algebra	350Math
Math 2413	Calculus I	350Math
Political Science 2301	American Government I	351Reading

18. Required Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Testing

Texas law (the Texas Success Initiative–TSI) mandates that all Texas public institutions of higher education shall assess the academic skills of each entering undergraduate student to determine the student´s readiness to enroll in freshman-level academic coursework. To identify and provide diagnostic information about the reading,writing, and mathematics skills of each student, the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Testing Center administers the College Board Texas Success Initiative Assessment. This test is widely available elsewhere in the state, and students may test at any convenient testing center as allowed by that local canter. For more information, contact the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Testing Center at (409) 880-8878 or .

ALL UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS ADMITTED TO LAMAR UNIVERSITY MUST TAKE AN APPROVED TSI TEST, AND SCORES FROM THE TEST MUST BE RECEIVED BY LU BEFORE STUDENTS CAN BE ADVISED AND REGISTERED FOR COURSE WORK.

Exemptions/Exceptions: Students shall be exempt from TSI requirements under the following conditions:

1. For a period of five (5) years from the date of testing, a student who is tested and performs at or above the following standards:

A. ACT: composite score of 23 with a minimum of 19 on the English test and/or the mathematics test shall be exempt for those corresponding sections;

B. Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT): a combined verbal and mathematics score of 1070 with a minimum of 500 on the verbal test and/or the mathematics test shall be exempt for those corresponding sections; or

1. For a period of five (5) years from the date of testing, a student who is tested and performs on the eleventh grade, exit-level Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) with a minimum scale score of 2200 on the math section and/or a minimum scale score of 2200 on the English Language Arts section with a writing subsection score of at least 3, shall be exempt from the assessment required under this title for those corresponding sections.
2. A student who has graduated with an associate or baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution of higher education.
3. A student who transfers to a Texas public institution from a private or independent institution of higher education or an accredited out-of-state institution of higher education and who has satisfactorily completed college-level coursework of at least six (6) equivalent credit hours (3 algebra, 3 designated reading/writing intensive courses) with a grade of "C" or better.
4. A student who has previously attended any Texas public institution and has been determined to have met readiness standards by that institution as indicated on the student´s official transcript from the sending institution.
5. A student who is serving on active duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States, the Texas National Guard, or as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States and has been serving for at least three years preceding enrollment.
6. A student who on or after August 1, 1990, was honorably discharged, retired, or released from active duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States or the Texas National Guard or service as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States.

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ may exempt a non-degree-seeking or non-certificate-seeking student.

Minimum Passing Standards

Scores required by ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ on various TSI placement tests for entry into regular courses may be found at/center-for-college-readiness/_files/documents/TSI%20Placement%20082613RV.pdf.

19. Advisement and Plan for Academic Success

For each student who is not exempted from Texas Success Initiative (TSI) compliance or who fails to meet the minimum passing standards on a TSI-approved test, ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ's Undergraduate Advising Center's personnel will:

1. Establish a program to advise the student regarding developmental education necessary to ensure readiness to perform freshman-level academic coursework.
   1. Determine a plan, working with the student, for academic success, which shall include college readiness education and may include provisions for enrollment in appropriate non-developmental coursework. Each plan for academic success shall:
      1. Be designed on an individual basis to provide the best opportunity for each student to succeed in performing freshman-level academic coursework.
      2. Provide to the student a description of the appropriate college readiness education considered necessary to ensure the student is prepared to perform freshman-level academic coursework.
      3. Provide to the student an appropriate measure for determining readiness to perform freshman-level academic coursework.

For more information about the Texas Success Initiative, approved placement testing, or college readiness at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, please contact the Undergraduate Advising Center at (409) 880-8822.

2. Student Financial Assistance and Awards

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ is committed to helping students attain their educational goals and expand their opportunities. Financial assistance is monetary assistance to help with costs associated with attendance at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ. Financial assistance in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and employment is available to qualified students. Information regarding programs, policies, rules, regulations, and eligibility criteria may be obtained from the Student Financial Assistance Office, P.O. Box 10042, Beaumont, Texas, 77710, (409) 880-7011 or /financial-aid.

The ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Office of Student Financial Assistance only processes grants, Stafford Loans, work study, and exemptions/waivers. Even though scholarships are counted in the financial assistance package, any questions concerning scholarships should be directed to the Scholarship Office. Please contact the Office of Scholarships, P.O. Box 10009, Beaumont, Texas, 77710.

Financial assistance is not awarded until students have been admitted into a degree-seeking program and all required documents have been received by the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Financial Assistance Office.

1.When to Apply

Financial assistance applications (FAFSA) and related documents should be completed by April 1 to meet the priority deadline for the following academic year. Notification of awards will be mailed or emailed in late spring and early summer. The university will continue to award student assistance as long as funds are available. The most desirable types of assistance are normally expended early; therefore, students should make every effort to meet the April 1 deadline.

2.How to Apply

STEP 1

Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by applying online at . Using the most recent income tax information, students need to complete a new FAFSA the first year and a renewal FAFSA in subsequent years. The student and one of his biological parents can speed up the process by obtaining a PIN to be able to sign the application. A PIN can be obtained at . Make sure that ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ receives the information by listing ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ when completing the FAFSA. ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ’s school code is 003581. The student will receive an acknowledgement from the U.S. Dept of Education upon receipt.

STEP 2

Once a student’s electronic information is received by ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, the Financial Assistance Office will request additional documentation before the student is awarded. Once the student has been admitted to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ, he can log into his student account online and view what documents the Financial Assistance Office is requesting. Often the request will include the student’s tax return and his parents' tax return information from the tax year requested on the FAFSA.  Students are encouraged to use the IRS data retrieval tool on the FAFSA. Copies of all W-2s for non-filers, a verification worksheet (available on ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Financial Assistance website), and documentation of additional untaxed income such as child support may be needed.

STEP 3

Once the Office of Financial Assistance have received all of the requested paperwork, reviewed it, and verified it, students will be awarded grants (if available and applicable) and loans for which students are eligible. During this process the Office of Financial Assistance will also re-evaluate the student’s academic progress. If a student is not meeting ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ's Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards, then financial assistance will be put on hold. Students will have an opportunity to appeal, if they are not meeting the Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards, by submitting an appeal letter to the Financial Assistance Office. Students should make sure that all necessary documentation is submitted and fully explains why academic standards were not met.

STEP 4

Once financial assistance has been awarded, a student will need to accept the grants and loans online and follow the additional instructions for student loans to ensure the funds arrive as soon as possible. Students who accept loans will need to complete an additional step by completing Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note at www.studentloans.gov. Students must completely follow all instructions to receive all of their financial assistance.

Parents wishing to request a PLUS loan will complete the PLUS application and PLUS Master Promissory Note at www.studentloans.gov by logging in with parent information. Once the Office of Financial Assistance receives a request for the PLUS loan and all required documentation is complete, the parent and student must complete a Plus Loan Worksheet telling ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ whether the refund, if any as a result of the PLUS loan, should be given to the parent or the student.

Graduate students requesting a Graduate PLUS loan must complete the PLUS application and PLUS Master Promissory Note at . A Graduate PLUS Loan Worksheet must also be submitted to the Office of Student Financial Assistance.

Federal Perkins Loan Awards must be accepted in person in the Financial Assistance Office.

STEP 5

Provided a student has registered during the priority registration time frame and all processing is complete, money will be disbursed to the student’s account up to three days before classes begin. Any residual money (refund) will be disbursed to students through the Cardinal One Card. Note: Prior to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ releasing funds, the Office of Financial Assistance will check the number of class hours in which a student is enrolled, satisfactory academic progress, default status, and if a student has completed the entrance counseling requirement.  Students will be awarded grant, work study, and loans based on full-time enrollment (undergraduates–12 hours, graduates–9 hours) If enrolled for less than full time, financial assistance WILL NOT DISBURSE TO THE STUDENT.  If a student knows he or she will not be enrolled full time and has not accepted any loan money, the student can notify the Office of Financial Assistance in writing by sending an email to financialaid@lamar.edu from his or her LU email address to have financial assistance adjusted for fewer hours of enrollment.  Emails from other addresses will not be accepted.  As a result, financial assistance will be adjusted for fall and spring, and the student may receive less grant, work-study, and loan money than originally awarded. Grant money will be reduced before the financial assistance disbursement date.  Once grant money has been reduced, a student may not be able to receive additional grant money if he adds classes after financial assistance has already been reduced.   If a student notifies the Office of Financial Assistance and has already accepted loan money, an Additional Loan Worksheet may be required.  (Students in the Academic Partnership programs will be awarded based on their actual hours of enrollment and do not have to notify the Office of Financial Assistance of schedule changes.)  Any student who withdraws during the first 60 percent of the semester will owe grant and/or loan funds to the government.  There is no exception to this rule, and students cannot appeal this decision to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.

Short-term Loans

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ may provide a short-term loan (payment arrangement) for students in need. Short-term loans for 30 to 60 days are designed to cover emergency situations and must be repaid within the semester in which the loan is made. Those interested in a short-term loan should contact the Cashier's Office at (409) 880-8390.

Employment

Employment opportunities under the Federal College Work-Study Program and other employment programs of the university are available to Lamar students as part of the financial assistance program. The university and local businesses and industries provide a number of part-time jobs that enable students to earn part or all of their expenses while attending the university. Students will need to contact the Career and Testing Center at (409) 880-8878 for more information on job opportunities.

TO CHECK THE PROGRESS OF YOUR STUDENT LOANS/GRANTS ONLINE

1. Go to Self Service Banner and Log In.
2. Look under the "Financial Assistance" tab. Under this title, you will see various links that provide information concerning your financial assistance account.

TO DOWNLOAD STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FORMS

1. Go to the Financial Assistance Website at  /financial-aid
2. Click on "Forms"

THINGS TO REMEMBER

• The priority date for submitting all documents required for financial assistance awards is April 1.
• Satisfactory Academic Progress must be maintained in order to continue to receive financial assistance. ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ will not automatically award or process any loans for individuals who have defaulted on their student loans. Students submitting documentation that the defaulted loan has been repaid or satisfactory repayment arrangements have been made may be considered for grants and work study. The letter (from the respective guaranty agency) must also state that the student is now eligible for further financial assistance.

3. Scholarships

Students wishing to be considered for scholarships should request and complete the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Academic Scholarship Application found online at /admissions/scholarships. Academic transcripts must be submitted with the application. Beginning freshman applicants should arrange to have SAT or ACT test scores on file with the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Admissions Office. Scholarship funds are limited and recipients normally must have a grade point average in excess of 3.50 to be considered. Students are encouraged to contact their major department in order to secure application information for scholarships, which may be offered directly through the department. Scholarship applications should be completed by February 1 to meet the priority deadline for the following year. Completed applications should be forwarded to the Scholarship Office, P.O. Box 10009, Beaumont, Texas, 77710 (215 Wimberly Building.)

1. Minimum Qualifications

Scholarship awards to entering freshmen are determined by applicants' high school academic records, scores on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Testing Program (ACT), leadership, and high school class rank. Scholarship awards for upper-class students are determined by their cumulative grade point average as well as displayed leadership abilities.

Those applying for need-based grants, loans, or work-study employment must have their eligibility established by the FAFSA. In order to be eligible for federal educational assistance, the student must

1. Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States;
2. Possess a high school diploma from an accredited high school (Note: Students who graduate from home schools or unaccredited high schools must submit passing ACT or GED scores);
3. Be admitted to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ; and
4. In the case of continuing students, meet reasonable academic progress standards.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)—Students receiving assistance must maintain a 2.00 cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA). Students must also complete 75 percent of the hours they attempt and earn their first degree within 150 percent of the published hours required to earn the degree. Students who feel that extenuating circumstances prevented them from achieving the academic progress standard may address a written appeal to the Office of Student Financial Assistance.

2.Policy Regarding Competitive Scholarships

Competitive scholarships are awarded under the authority of the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Scholarship Committee, or other University committees specifically authorized by the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ administration to commit scholarship funds. Students applying for academic scholarships administered through the university should complete the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Scholarship Application. Students seeking scholarships related to specific skills or areas of study should contact the university department in the specific area of interest.

3.Selection Factors

Scholarships offered through the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Scholarship Committee are awarded on a competitive basis. The application process is open to all potential and current students. Scholarships may be awarded to graduating high school seniors, transfer students, or currently enrolled ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ students. Factors indicating academic achievement used in determining recipients of competitive scholarships include: 1) class ranking and/or grade point averages; 2) standardized test scores such as SAT, ACT, or GRE; 3) previous high school and/or college academic transcripts; 4) academic awards, honors, or achievements; and 5) academic major. Displayed leadership abilities and participation in extracurricular activities are used as secondary factors.

Competitive scholarships are also awarded by university programs for students showing demonstrated abilities and prior successful participation in such areas as music, writing, art, dance, or athletics. Factors in the awarding of competitive skill-based scholarships include evaluation by faculty and/or staff in each specific area. Evaluations may be based on, but are not limited to, video, film, audio-tape, auditions, student-created works, or personal observations of student performance by university faculty or staff.

McMaster Honors Program scholarships of up to $10,000 each are available for students in the Honors College. Students may contact the director of the program at (409) 212-9724 or see /honors-college/ for details.

4.Waiver of Non-Resident Fees

Students receiving competitive academic scholarships of $1,000 or more may be exempt from the payment of nonresident tuition rates. To be eligible for this waiver the scholarship must meet all institutional requirements of competitive awards and comply with all rules governing tuition rates and waivers as established by the State of Texas.

5.Valedictorians

Valedictorians from accredited high schools of Texas are entitled to an exemption from payment of tuition and laboratory fees for the two regular semesters immediately following graduation. Other fees are not exempt. Upon registration, valedictorians should submit the "Highest Ranking Graduate Certificate" to the Student Financial Assistance Office so that the appropriate fee adjustment can be made.

6. Students with Physical Handicaps (Vocational Rehabilitation)

The Texas Rehabilitation Commission offers assistance for tuition and non-refundable fees to students who have certain disabling conditions, provided their vocational objectives have been approved by a TRC counselor. Examples of such conditions are orthopedic deformities, emotional disorders, diabetes, epilepsy, heart conditions, etc. Other services also are available to assist the handicapped student to become employable. Application for such service should be made at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission, Beaumont District Office, 5550 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas, 77701, (409) 898-3988.

7. Hazlewood Exemption

The purpose of Hazlewood Exemption is to provide an education benefit to Texas veterans who received an honorable or general under honorable conditions discharge and to eligible dependent children and spouses of Texas veterans.

Eligibility is for Veterans who a) were, at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, Texas residents; b) designated Texas as Home of Record or entered the service in Texas; c) served at least 181 days of active military duty; and d) have no federal benefits dedicated to the semester enrolled that do not exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits (such as Ch 33 Post 9/11 or Ch 31 Voc Rehab). These veterans must be a) current Texas residents, b) not in default on a student loan made or guaranteed by the State of Texas, and c) enrolled in classes for which the college receives tax support.

Qualifying Veterans may transfer their unused Hazlewood benefits to their biological child, step child, adopted child, or dependent in the current or previous tax year. The child must be a Texas resident and 25 years or younger on the first day of the semester.

The children and/or spouse of qualifying Texas Veterans (who were members of the U.S. Armed Forces, Texas National Guard or Texas Air National Guard) are entitled to Hazlewood if the parent or spouse died as a result of service-related injuries or illness, is missing in action, or became totally disabled for purposes of employability as a result of service-related injury or illness. The children and/or spouse must be current Texas residents.

A child or step child of a member of the Armed Forces who is deployed to active duty in a combat zone outside the United States is entitled to exemption from the payment of tuition (fees not included.) The child must be a Texas resident or entitled to pay the resident tuition rate.

Further information and applications may be found at or through the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ Veterans Affairs Office at (409) 880-8998 or /veterans-affairs/.

8. Release of Records

All records (applications and need analysis documents) submitted by a third party become the property of ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ and cannot be released to another institution or the student. Prior to processing, items submitted by the student may be returned upon the student's written request. Parental income tax information may be returned upon written request of the parent. A minimum of five days may be required to complete the return of the requested items. Once the application has been processed, all items must be maintained for audit purposes and cannot be released.

9. Tuition Rebates for Certain Undergraduates

Certain students entering higher education for the first time in fall 1997 or later may be eligible for a $1,000 tuition rebate granted at the time of graduation. Specific details of this program are available from the Offices of Academic Services or the Registrar, (409) 880-8368. To be eligible to apply for this rebate, students must meet all of the following conditions:

1. Enroll in higher education for the first time in the fall of 1997 or later.
2. Work toward a first baccalaureate degree.
3. Attempt all courses at a Texas state institution and have been entitled to pay resident tuition rates at all times of enrollment.
4. Attempt no more than three hours in excess of the minimum number of semester credit hours to complete the degree under the ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ General Catalog from which they graduated. Hours attempted include transfer credits, course credit earned by examination, courses dropped after the official census date, for-credit college readiness courses, optional internship and cooperative education courses, and repeated courses.
5. Apply to the Office of the Registrar during the semester in which the student applies for graduation.

10. Refunds

For those students withdrawing from the university and who are receiving or have received financial assistance (grants, loans, scholarships), all or a portion of the refund will be returned to the appropriate financial assistance source. Recipients in attendance at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ for the first time and who withdraw prior to the 60% point in the semester will have refunds calculated according to the Pro-Rata Refund Schedule listed below. All other applicable refunds will be calculated according to the Refund Policy as outlined in the Fees and Expenses section of this catalog.

Pro-Rata Refund Schedule

Fall or Spring Semester

1. Prior to first class day, 100%
2. During the first week, 80%
3. During the second week, 70%
4. During the third week, 50%
5. During the fourth week, 25%
6. During the fifth week, 0%

Summer Session

1. Prior to first class day, 100%
2. During the first week, 80%
3. During the second week, 50%
4. During the third week, 0%

For dates relevant to refunds during accelerated online courses, see the LU Online Calendar.

In allocating the refund to specific programs, ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ will practice a "Fixed Priority Allocation." The listing below indicates the priority in which programs will be refunded. The full amount received under each program is returned in priority order until the refund amount is exhausted. The amount returned to a specific program cannot exceed the amount the student received from that program. Refunds due to the Department of Education (DOE) for Stafford Loans and PLUS Loans will be refunded directly to the DOE. The Director of Student Financial Assistance may exercise professional judgment in exceptions to the distribution hierarchy policy.

Refund Priority

Federal Pell Grant

Federal SEOG

Federal Perkins Loan

Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan

Federal PLUS Loan

Policy Regarding Referrals of Suspected Fraud or Criminal Misconduct

In the event that an applicant is suspected of participating in fraud or other criminal misconduct in connection with the application for Title IV, HEA program assistance, the information will be referred to the appropriate university, state, and/or federal authorities. These authorities may include, but are not limited to, the following: University Discipline Officer, University Police, Beaumont Police and the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Education.

3. Fees and Expenses

¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ reserves the right to change fees in keeping with acts of the Texas Legislation and rules and regulations of the Texas State University System. By registering for classes at the university, the student agrees to abide by all the policies of the university.

1. Payment of Fees

A student is not registered until all fees have been paid in full or the student has paid the equivalent of a down payment on the installment plan (if available). Payment may be made by check, Mastercard/Discover/AMEX (online only), money order, currency or financial assistance (exemptions, loans, grants, and scholarships). Checks and money orders should be made payable to ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ and will be accepted subject to final payment. The university will not accept counter checks, postdated checks, credit card checks, or altered checks. Excess payments will be refunded through the students Cardinal One card at the discretion of the university. Students on a "cash only" basis will be restricted to paying by MasterCard/Discover/AMEX, money orders, currency, or financial assistance. Payments can be made:

1. At the Cashier's office during working hours (cash, checks, debit cards, or money orders only).
2. On the Internet at .
3. By drop box at Wimberly 114 for check (with student I.D.) in a sealed envelope. These payments will be considered part of the next business day's activity if paid after 5:00 p.m. No cash will be accepted.
4. Mailed to the Payment Center at P.O. Box 10183, Beaumont, TX 77710.

Students who are delinquent on obligations will be prohibited from registering for class until all obligations are paid in full. Also, holds are placed on academic records so that students cannot obtain transcripts until all obligations are paid in full.

Delinquent obligations to the university will be sent to a collection agency and reported to credit bureaus. All costs of collections are paid by the student, which is generally an additional 33.333 percent of the student's obligations to the university. Delinquent accounts must be paid at the collection agency. Payment cannot be accepted by ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ if the account has been forwarded to a collection agency.

Installment Payment Program

Students may enter into the installment program of the university upon verbal or written request in a fall or spring semester. Students who do not pay tuition and fees in full will be placed in the installment program if the student has paid at least the amount of the down payment (otherwise classes will be dropped). The installment program generally requires a 50 percent down payment with the next 25 percent due about 30 days after the semester starts and the final 25 percent due about 60 days after the semester starts. A non-refundable service charge of $20 is assessed for the installment program. A late fee of $15 will be assessed beginning the first day after an installment due date for each delinquent installment payment. Reductions of fees for students in the installment program from drops or withdrawals are calculated as a percentage of the total fees assessed, not as a percentage of any partial payments.

For information concerning installment payments for online courses in accelerated terms, contact the Student Financial Assistance Office at (409) 880-7011, or see .

2. Summary of Registration Expenses

Each student must plan a budget carefully. The following web page is provided to determine the approximate cost of attendance.

/students/paying-for-school/cost-calculator-texas-resident.html

* Tuition and fees vary from semester to semester and vary with the semester hours carried so the total may differ from this estimate.

Summaries of Fees

Following are "Summaries of Fees" in that can be used in estimating total tuition and fee charges. The total amount of these fees is typical of other state universities in Texas though specific fees will vary from university to university. Note that these do not include course fees, and it is assumed the student is enrolled only at ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ.

/students/paying-for-school/tuition-and-fees.html.

3. Tuition

Tuition has two components to it: the portion set by the State (conventional tuition) and the portion set by the Board of Regents regulated by State statutes (local tuition). By State statute, both of these items must be billed together and called "tuition." The State portion (conventional tuition) is based upon the number of hours for which the student registers and is determined by the student's classification as a Texas resident or a non-Texas resident. The Admissions Office determines legal residence for tuition purposes on the basis of statutes of the State of Texas. State tuition is remitted to the State by the university. The local tuition portion is assessed to support university debt service and other university functions that are not supported by state funding. Approximately 70 percent of this fee is used to finance debt service. Other items supported by this fee include the post office, print shop, supply center, cashiering, and other institutional support functions. The current rate is $158 per semester hour. Thus, the combined conventional and local tuition rate is $208 per semester hour. For an overview of total current costs of attendance, see Summary of Registration Expenses above.

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is set by the Board of Regents and is assessed to support the Graduate Studies program. The current graduate tuition is $100 per hour.

Determining Residence Status

Texas law specifies that if there is any question as to the student's right to classification as a resident of Texas, it is the student's responsibility to (1) have his or her classification officially determined and (2) to register under the proper classification. Students are classified as resident, nonresident, or foreign for tuition purposes according to state statutes (Title 3, Texas Education Code) and Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board rules and regulations interpreting these statutes. These statutes, rules and regulations are available from the Office of Admissions Services in the John Gray Center, Building A. Questions should be directed to that office.

Tuition for Undergraduate Students with Excessive Credit Hours

In accordance with Texas Senate Bill 345 (1999), Section 61.0595 of the Education Code establishes that if a resident undergraduate student earns credit hours that exceed by at least 45 hours the number of credit hours required by a degree program, ¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ will not receive state funding for those hours. The university will, therefore, charge the student the rate charged non-resident students. For example, a degree program requires 120 semester credit hours, but a resident undergraduate student enrolls in 166 credit hours. The student is charged resident rate for 120 plus 45 hours, totaling 165, but the student is charged the non-resident rate for any hours exceeding 165.

An undergraduate student who is not enrolled in a degree program is considered to be enrolled in a degree program requiring a minimum of 120 semester credit hours.

This law does not apply to a student enrolled in: 1) two or more baccalaureate degree programs at the same time, 2) a double-major degree program that requires 130 or more semester credits for completion, or 3) a health professional baccalaureate degree program.

The following credits are not counted for purposes of determining whether the student has previously earned the number of semester credit hours specified above: 1) semester credit hours earned by the student before receiving a baccalaureate degree that has been previously awarded to the student, 2) semester credit hours earned by the student by examination or under any other procedure by which credit is earned without registering for a course for which tuition is charged, 3) credit for a remedial education course, a technical course, a work-force education course funded according to contact hours, or another course that does not count toward a degree program at the institution, or 4) semester credit hours earned by the student at a private institution or an out-of-state institution.

These provisions do not affect any students who initially enrolled as an undergraduate student in any institution of higher education before the fall 1999 semester. For additional information, contact the Office of the Vice President for Finance and Operations.

4. Fees

Course Fees

Some courses have additional fees associated with them. Students should always check with the department offering the class to see what additional fees will be assessed. Most course fees are also listed in the class schedule.

Student Service Fee

The student service fee supports student activities such as athletics, recreational sports, the University Press, and other student services. The current rate is $23.75 per hour with a maximum of $250.

Setzer Student Center Fee

This fee supports the Setzer Student Center and its programs. The current rate is $100 per long semester and $50 per summer/mini session.

Health Center Fee

The Health Center Fee supports the student Health Center and is $36 per long semester and $18 per summer/mini session.

Sheila Umphrey Recreational Sports Center Fee

This fee supports the recreational sports center. The current rate is $75.00 per long semester and $37 per summer session.

Technology Service Fee

This fee supports institutional technology services across campus. The current rate is $30 per hour.

Library Use Fee

This fee is used to support the library. As every course (including online and remote courses) is given the mandate to use the library, all students are charged this fee. The current rate is $16 per hour.

Distance Learning Fee

A charge up to $50 per semester credit hour of instruction will be charged to students enrolled in courses offered by means of distance learning.

Athletic Fee

A charge of $9.62 per credit hour to support the athletic program.

Cardinal One Card Fee

This fee is used for administrative costs of the Cardinal One card, which replaces the student ID, and provides a means to issue refunds to students.  The charge is $15.00 per semester and $8.00 per summer session.

Records Fee

The Records Fee would provide the student with five transcripts each year and cover those administrative costs.  The charge is $13.00 per semester and $7.00 per summer session.

Center for Academic Success Fee

This fee is to support the Center for Academic Success in advising, mentoring, and retention of the students.  The fee is $50.00 per semester and $25.00 per summer sessions.

Late Registration Fee

A charge of $10 is made for late registration or for paying after the start of the semester (not including the second or third payments under the installment plan).

Reinstatement Fee

A student seeking reinstatement to the university after withdrawing from the university without paying the full amount of tuition and fees due, or after having been denied credit for work done for failure to pay an installment payment or late payment fee, shall pay a $50 reinstatement fee in addition to past due installment payments and late payment fees.

Private Lessons in Voice and Instrumental Music

Applied music courses (per semester hour) $50.00. Maximum $150 per course.

Parking Fee

Charges for parking on campus are made at registration. Automobile registration fees are as follows: fall semester, $60; spring semester, $40; summer, $20. Only one registration is required during an academic year, and a student's parking fee is honored until the end of Summer Session II.

Property Deposit

Each student will be required to pay a one-time $10 property deposit. Any unused portion of the $10 will be refunded upon written request to the Cashiers' Office after the student graduates or withdraws from the university. If a student attends the university for more than four years, this fee will be charged again.

Health and Accident Insurance

Health and accident insurance coverage is available for purchase at registration for students carrying nine or more semester hours. This or similar insurance is required of all international students. Additional information may be obtained from the Office of Student Engagement.

Special Fees

Fees will be set by the university for courses in which special plans and/or field trips must be prepared and specialists secured as instructors. Students who feel they may be exempt from some fees should contact the Student Financial Assistance Office. For example:

Exemption 1: Scholarships to High School Honor Graduates

The highest ranking student in the graduating class of a fully accredited Texas high school will be entitled to a tuition and laboratory fee waiver valued at approximately $3,600. Details may be obtained from the Student Financial Assistance Office.

Exemption 2: Hazlewood

Persons who were citizens of Texas at the time of entry into the Armed Forces and who are no longer eligible for federal educational benefits are exempt from tuition, laboratory fees, Setzer Student Center fees, general use fee, and computer use fee. This applies to those who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, or Desert Storm and were honorably discharged. This exemption also applies to those veterans who entered service after Jan. 1, 1977, and did not contribute under the VEAP program. To obtain this exemption, necessary papers must be presented prior to registration and approval obtained from the Office of Veterans Affairs. The above exemption also extends to children of members of the Armed Forces who were killed in action or died while in the service in World War II, the Korean Conflict, or Vietnam War. Students need to provide a copy of their separation papers (DD214) and a letter from the Veterans Administration stating that the student has no remaining eligibility. Students who expect to attend under a veterans' benefit plan should contact the Office of Veterans Affairs 90 to 120 days prior to registration. The Office of Veterans Affairs advises veterans on program and training opportunities, academic assistance, and counseling. Veterans interested in information in these areas should visit this office in the Wimberly Student Services Building.

5. Policy on Waiving Fees

Off-Campus Classes

Students taking online or remote classes will not be required to pay Setzer Center, Health Center, or property deposit fees. All other fees are required by either Board of Regents or State statute and cannot be waived. Such courses have an additional $50 per hour fee to compensate for the additional expenses of these classes (rent of facilities, transportation of personnel and materials, additional record keeping, etc.).

Multi-Campus Students

Students taking classes on more than one Lamar campus (¿ìÉ«ÊÓƵ and Lamar-Institute of Technology) may be entitled to a reduction of fees. The basis for the reduction would be so as not to exceed fee maximums for specific fees. The Cashiers' Office should be contacted for information regarding multi-campus adjustments or to ensure an adjustment is made. Adjustments will not be made until after the last day a refund for withdrawing from the university can be obtained.

Refund of Tuition and/or Fees

Students requesting a refund of tuition and/or fees resulting from dropped courses or from withdrawing from the university should direct questions to the Cashiers' Office. Withdrawal refunds are calculated as a percentage of total fees assessed, not as a percentage of partial payments on installments. Refunds for dropped classes are generally processed at the end of the second week past the 12th semester day of regular semesters and after the 4th semester day during summer sessions. Refunds for withdrawals are generally processed at the end of the second week following the 12th semester day for regular semesters and two weeks after the 6th semester day for summer sessions.

Students taking online courses in accelerated five- or eight-week terms may view the calendar of dates critical for refunds.

Drop Vs. Withdrawal

Drop - Remove one or more but not all courses from your schedule.  This can be done by you.

Withdrawal - Remove all courses for one or more semesters from your schedule.  This must be done through the Registrar's office.

Refer to  for more detailed information on dropping and/or withdrawing from courses.

Dropped Courses

In order to receive a 100% reduction of tuition and fees for dropped courses, a student must drop according to the schedule below and remain enrolled in some hours with the university. Questions should be directed to the Cashier's Office.

Fall or Spring Semester

1. Through the twelfth semester day, 100 percent.
2. After the twelfth semester day, no refund.

Summer Session

1. Through the fourth semester day, 100 percent.
2. After the fourth semester day, no refund.

Withdrawal from the university

Tuition and fees may be reduced when a student withdraws. Depending on the amount of reduction and what the student has paid, the student may receive a refund or may still owe money to the university. Any student who officially withdraws from the university will receive a reduction on tuition and fees according to the following schedule.

Fall or Spring Semester

1. Prior to the first semester day, 100 percent less a $15 matriculation fee.
2. During the first through fifth semester days, 80 percent.
3. During the sixth through tenth semester days, 70 percent.
4. During the eleventh through fifteenth semester days, 50 percent.
5. During the sixteenth through twentieth semester days, 25 percent.
6. After the twentieth semester day, none.

Summer Session

1. Prior to the first semester day, 100 percent less a $15 matriculation fee.
2. During the first, second or third semester day, 80 percent.
3. During the fourth, fifth or sixth semester day, 50 percent.
4. Seventh semester day and after, none.

The $10 Property Deposit is refundable upon written request by the student to the Cashiers' Office.

Withdrawing from the university does not relieve the student of any financial obligations under the Installment Payment Program or for any student loans, as these are the student's legal financial commitments.

Insufficient Funds Checks

Checks written to the university and returned unpaid for any reason will result in a $25 charge plus applicable fees for a delinquent account (e.g., $10 late registration fee, $15 late installment payment fee, etc.). Students with a returned check will be on "cash only" status for the duration of their enrollment at Lamar, subject to appeal. Students on a "cash only" basis are prohibited from paying with a personal check (all other payment methods are acceptable).

Matriculation Fee

A matriculation fee of $15 will be incurred by students who withdraw prior to the first day of class. This $15 fee will be deducted from refunds.

Miscellaneous Fees

• Advanced Standing Examination (per course) $50.00
• Parking Tickets $20.00-$200.00
• Special Handling Fee $20.00
• Microfilming of abstract and binding of first three copies of thesis $75.00
• Microfilming of abstract and binding of first three copies of field study or dissertation $85.00
• Thesis, field study, or dissertation binding (each copy after the first three) $10.00 + tax
• Diploma fees (with tax) $24.45 + tax
• Cap, gown and hood (disposable) – Master's (plus tax) $65.96
• Cap, gown and hood (rental) – Doctor's (plus tax) $81.96
• Copyrighting $45.00
• Photo Identification $5.00

Other departments may charge fees for programs or services available to students. Questions regarding these charges should be directed to the corresponding departments.

Fines and Breakage Loss

Library fines, charges for breakage or loss of equipment, or other charges must be paid before a transcript of credit or a permit to re-enter the university will be issued. The university reserves the right to make a special assessment against any student guilty of inexcusable breakage, loss of instructional equipment or loss of other university property.