What defines a private university?

When researching colleges, I've come across terms like private universities a lot. Can someone explain what makes a university private and how that differs from public universities? Are there pros and cons for students?

A private university is an independent school that operates as a non-profit entity, and it's often governed by a board of trustees. Different from public universities, private institutions don't receive primary funding from state governments—instead, they rely on tuition fees, donations, and endowments for their funding.

In terms of academic offerings, the distinction between private and public isn't significant, but there are a several differences that might influence your college decision:

1. Size: Private universities tend to be smaller than public ones on average, which often leads to smaller class sizes and more personalized attention from professors.

2. Cost: Private universities generally have a higher sticker price for tuition compared to public universities. However, they frequently have more financial aid resources and can often provide substantial aid packages that can make the net cost more affordable.

3. Funding Sources: Public universities are state-funded, which usually allows them to offer more affordable tuition rates to in-state students. Conversely, private universities do not have a two-tiered tuition system based on residency—an out-of-state student usually pays the same as an in-state student.

4. Campus Culture: Private universities can differ in overall campus culture. Many prestigious private universities are research-intensive with numerous opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research. Some private institutions might have a religious affiliation, affecting campus life and the university's mission.

As for pros and cons for students—it depends on the specific aspects you value in a college experience. You might appreciate the typically smaller size of classes at private universities or the diversity of out-of-state students, but you might also value the potentially lower cost of public universities for in-state students, or the spirited athletic and social scene that larger public universities often offer.

Remember to look at each school independently when considering these factors, as there's a wide range within each category.