Deciding between Humphreys and Westcliff University , based in LA

Day 1 CPT Universities
1

Hi everyone! I’m currently living in Los Angeles (LA) and would love your suggestions as I navigate an important decision regarding my higher education.

I’ve been *accepted into the MBA in Information Technology program at Humphreys University and I’m currently in the process of applying for a **Change of Status from H4 to F1.

A bit about my background:
:graduation_cap: I hold a Master’s in Data Science and have over 10 years of experience in the field. I’m now looking to expand into leadership and management roles in tech through an MBA–IT program.

Here’s my dilemma:

Humphreys University offers a much more affordable tuition compared to universities like Westcliff.

  • However, being based in LA, I would need to travel to Stockton, CA (Central Valley)** once every quarter for the on-ground weekend classes required by Humphreys.
  • In contrast, Westcliff University is local to Southern California**, but the tuition is significantly higher.

:thought_balloon: If you’ve studied at either of these universities or faced a similar situation — where cost vs. convenience was a factor — I’d love to hear your insights:

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Is it worth saving on tuition and dealing with occasional travel?
:backhand_index_pointing_right: Or does being closer to campus provide benefits that justify the extra cost?
:backhand_index_pointing_right: Any personal experiences with either school?

Thank you so much in advance! :folded_hands:
Every suggestion will help me make an informed decision.

2

Westcliff has a semester length of 4 months with a tuition fee of around $5,000; Humphreys has a semester length of 3 months with a tuition fee of $3,500. If the cost of going on-site exceeds the tuition difference, then Westcliff should be the better choice.

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3

Since you’re located in LA and looking for an MBA program, why not consider CIAM? You won’t have to deal with commuting, and the tuition is more affordable too.

4

But CIAM does not give CPT untill first semester is completed

5

Yes, if you are changing status from H4 to F1, both CIAM and Sofia require you to wait 9 months before you can start CPT.

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6

I’ll say Westcliff, I got so many friends attended this university and change their status to H1B, so I think that’s a reliable choice.

7

I would choose CIAM since it is a smaller school which makes me feel safer when it comes to RFE

8

I have similar situation with you and I live in LA. Westcliff is so much more convenient than traveling all the way to Stockton for me!