Difference between public and private colleges in Canada

If you have completed your secondary school and aspire to continue your academic journey in a country like Canada, you might wonder which college is best for you. Candidates are often confused between private and public colleges in Canada. If you find yourself in such a situation, this blog will help you make the right decision.
Let’s discuss the advantages and disadvantages of private and public institutions for international students in Canada.

Private Vs. Public colleges-The key difference

Private colleges do not receive funds from provincial or federal governments and have to operate everything themselves. However, most public colleges are funded by federal or local governments and receive several funds. There is also a considerable difference between the courses offered by private and public colleges and the student strength in the classes of both.
 

Let’s discuss all these decisive factors separately to help you pick the right college for your subsequent admission.

• Educational expenses
  When it comes to educational expenses, private colleges can prove more economical, and this is because private colleges offer several grants and scholarships to international students. Moreover, education costs are very similar for both domestic and international students in private colleges in Canada.
  On the other hand, the cost of education for international students is relatively higher in public colleges in Canada. Public colleges usually offer scholarships to domestic students, so, as an international student, you would certainly have to pay the total cost if you intend to join a public college.

• Quality of education
  Education in public universities is often known to lag for several reasons. Firstly, the class size is significantly large in public universities, which makes individual interaction between students and teachers almost negligible. Secondly, public colleges often lack the latest technology and well-maintained labs. So, public institutions may not be the best option for research purposes.
  In contrast, private universities are well maintained and have the latest equipment in their labs. The student-teacher interaction is also considerably high because of the short classes, and the students can even ask to change the syllabus if they are interested in something particular.

• Career opportunities
  When it comes to working opportunities, both private and public colleges have something to offer. If you are a student at a private college, you can work up to twenty hours or even a little more per week. Also, you have the opportunity to work full-time during your vacations or semester breaks for some extra earnings.
  Public college students have more opportunities to be chosen for government jobs after their course. Such colleges will allow you to stay and work after your coursework has been completed.