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Choosing between a public and private college can be rather tough.   While each college can have it’s upsides, there are always downsides as well.  I wanted to touch base on a few things that you should be aware of when considering a public or private university.

Why you should choose a public university…

The Pricing

For starters, you’re going to find that your state colleges are going to be funded by the state.  For that reason, you’re going to realize that your public colleges are going to be a lot cheaper compared to your private schools.  If your budget is your main concern, you will find that the public schools will edge out the private schools 99% of the time.

Getting Admitted

Statistics show that when you apply for a public university, you’re going to have a better chance at getting accepted, especially if you find yourself living in the state of that particular school.

Diverse Student Based

Private schools tend to focus around a particular group or religion.  While this isn’t the case for most schools, you will find that with a public school, you will be able to communicate with many different types of students.

Reputation

A public college is going to strive it’s reputation.  Stats show that many more successful people graduate from public schools, rather than the private schools.  While there are some great name branded private colleges, you will find that you will have better luck with public schools.

Why you should choose a private university…

Location

Private schools tend to be located in quieter areas.  If you don’t want all of the business around, as well as thousands of students walking on the sidewalk at once, a private school will be a fantastic choice to consider.

Smaller Classes

With private schools, I have found that the class sizes are going to be a little bit smaller.  While your public schools have smaller classes as well, they are going to accept more students for their campus, impacting the class size itself.

Choice

Many states have a wide selection of private schools.  You’re going to find while your state will have public choices, the private choices will far outweigh the public.  If you want choice, this is the path to take.

As you can see, there’s a lot to choose from.  Read reviews on the colleges that you want to attend, as well as what is right for you.  Let’s hope that this pros and cons list can point you in the right direction.