Difference Between College and University

Confused about universities vs. colleges for your study abroad plans? This guide unveils key differences to help you pick the perfect fit. One major difference between a university and a college is that c college is focused and more often provides undergraduate courses with fewer course options; however, a university offers both UG and PG courses with more course options. In this article, we will explore the differences between universities and colleges by considering points from course options and campus life to learning styles and cost.
- Difference between University and College: Overview
- Difference between University and College - Details
- Important Colleges Abroad - By Country
- Difference Between University and College FAQs
Difference between University and College: Overview
Choosing between a university and a college can be daunting for Indian students venturing abroad. While both offer higher education, their structures and focuses differ significantly. Here's a breakdown to guide your decision:
Key Parameters | University | College |
---|---|---|
Function and Affiliation | A university is a self-governing institution that awards degrees, often housing multiple colleges and boasting research facilities. Universities educate professionals, conduct research, and contribute to societal progress. | Colleges, on the other hand, offer their degrees or are affiliated with a university for accreditation purposes. Affiliated colleges focus on specific undergraduate programs and share resources (libraries, labs) with the university. |
Types | Public Universities | Private Universities | IVY League Universities | Russell Group Universities | Open Universities | Liberal Arts College | Technical and Vocational Colleges | Community Colleges | Art and Design Colleges | Military Colleges |
Course Options | Offers a vast spectrum of courses (undergraduate & graduate) across disciplines like arts, sciences, engineering, and business. They often provide flexible learning options (online, distance) | Provides a focused range of courses, primarily undergraduate degrees and specialised programs in areas like healthcare or business. Their focus is on practical skills for direct workforce entry. |
Common Courses | Humanities | Social Science | Engineering and Technology | Business and Economics | Fine Arts | Communication and Media Studies | Political and International Studies | Language and Linguistics | Architecture and Design | Humanities and Social Science | Mathematics and Computer Science | Business and Economics | Engineering and Technology | Health Science | Fine Arts | Education | Communication and Media Studies | Public Administration | Language and Linguistics |
Learning Approach | Programs emphasise research-based learning, fostering critical thinking and independent study. | Programs have a practical focus, offering hands-on training and experiential learning to equip students with job-ready skills. |
Student Body and Campus Life | Larger student population due to diverse course offerings. Campuses are bigger, offering more facilities and social opportunities. | A smaller student body fosters a close-knit community. Campuses are smaller, providing a more personalised learning environment. |
Cost | Higher fees are due to the wider range of facilities, research opportunities, and program options. | Generally, more affordable due to their smaller size and limited infrastructure. |
Difference between University and College - Details
In short, colleges are smaller institutions with a limited number of courses and subjects available. While a university is formed by a combination of a number of colleges, they are hence a larger institution that provides a broader range of courses and subjects. A university also gives affiliation to colleges. Check out the other differences between a college and a university in detail below.
Also Read: Graduation Day in Universities Abroad
Important Colleges Abroad - By Country
Some of the important colleges and universities abroad are mentioned in the points below. Their importance is based on various factors such as their rankings, admission policies, etc.
SPP Colleges in Canada
Student Partners Program, or SPP, is meant for Indian students looking to develop practical and technical skills. These institutes mainly offer certificates and diplomas, with a few offering degrees as well. SPP was developed in partnership between the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) and Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). It is an arrangement between selected Canadian educational institutions and the Canadian High Commission in India to provide quick and easy study visas for the prospective students of participating institutions in Canada.
TAFE Institutes in Australia
TAFE institutes or Technical and Further Education Institutions offer students a wide range of Vocational and Educational Training courses, which range from 3 months to over 3 years. These courses are administered by Registered Training Organisations, which can be both private as well as government-funded. The Australian Education System is, broadly speaking, more focused on skill development. So if you are looking at Australia for employment opportunities after your education, TAFE institutes are an excellent alternative path and opportunity to achieve the same.
- South Metropolitan TAFE
- Northern Sydney Institute of TAFE
- William Angliss Institute of TAFE
- Central Regional TAFE
- Hunter Institute of TAFE
Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) in New Zealand
In New Zealand, Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) are government-owned and funded polytechnics that provide cost-effective education. For applied courses, polytechnics are preferred over university education as they place more importance on preparing students for joining the workforce. Because of their emphasis on practical learning, a lot of international students who wish to gain employment right after graduating, prefer enrolling at ITPs.
- Eastern Institute of Technology
- Manukau Institute of Technology
- Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology
- North Tec
- Otago Polytechnic
Top Universities in the World 2026
These universities have consistently been ranked highly in various world university rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. However, it is important to note that the definition of "top universities" can vary based on different factors such as location, the field of study, and individual preferences.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Cambridge, United States
- Imperial College London - London, United Kingdom
- Stanford University - Stanford, USA
- University of Oxford - Oxford, United Kingdom
- Harvard University - Cambridge, United States
Now that you have understood the difference between university and college, you can make a well-informed decision before selecting an educational institution. Candidates looking to study abroad can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance with university applications. Candidates can also write to us in the comments section below.
Also, Read:
Study in the US | Study in the UK |
Study in Canada | Study in Australia |
Difference Between University and College FAQs

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a month ago
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3 years ago
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Reply to Mohammed Abdul Sami
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3 years ago
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Hello Mohammaed. The majority of the Universities recognise 12+4 years of study. You can know about the studying in the USA here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/student-guide-to-the-united-states-of-america-usa-guidepage-15 Or know about popular Universities in the US here: https://studyabroad.sh
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4 years ago
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Reply to Geetanjali Tiwari
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4 years ago
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Hello Geetanjali. That is a very personal choice. You can however know about the benefits of studying abroad here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/5-benefits-of-studying-abroad-articlepage-285
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4 years ago
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Reply to Tamanna
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4 years ago
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Hello Tamanna. You can check out popular universities in Australia here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/australia and for top universities visit: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/australia/universities
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4 years ago
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4 years ago
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