What is a private university?

I'm trying to understand the difference between public and private universities as I start my college search. What defines a private university, and are there any particular advantages or disadvantages?

A private university is essentially an educational institution that is not funded by public (government) sources. Instead, these institutions rely heavily on tuition fees, endowments, and donations from their alumni. Renowned private universities in the U.S. include institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and Northwestern.

One of the main advantages of private universities is that they tend to have smaller class sizes, which can lead to more personalized attention from professors and more opportunities for students to participate in discussions. Private universities often have robust alumni networks which can present networking opportunities for students during and after their time at the university. These institutions also generally have more financial resources, which can mean better facilities, more diverse course offerings, and more research opportunities.

On the downside, private universities tend to be more expensive than public universities. However, many private universities have significant financial aid programs that can substantially lower the cost of attendance for students with demonstrated financial need.

Moreover, admissions at private universities can be highly competitive, with many schools holding high academic standards for their applicants. This can be an advantage for highly motivated students seeking a rigorous academic environment, but it can also make gaining admission to these schools more challenging.

Remember, the best fit for a prospective student does not just depend on whether the university is public or private. A vast array of factors including academic programs, class sizes, location, resources, campus culture, and financial aid availability should all be considered.