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You're probably familiar with all the rumors about private colleges -- they're way too expensive, the students are all cookie cutter replicas of one another, and it usually takes longer to earn your diploma. Well, we're here to bring you the truth about furthering your education at private colleges and universities, and we have a feeling you'll like what you're about to hear.

Myth #1: Private colleges are so expensive that only those students whose families have a lot of money are able to attend.

Truth be told... Thanks to the many grants and scholarships available today, the majority of students at private colleges and universities only pay about 60 percent of the school's tuition. Furthermore, the average tuition at private colleges has actually gone down over the last ten years (once you subtract the money students get from grants and scholarships, as well as adjust for inflation). And for those without much money to invest in their educations, it's a relief to know that approximately two-thirds of the financial aid undergrads at private colleges receive is based on need.

Myth #2: The diversity at private colleges is practically nonexistent.

Truth be told... When you compare the demographics of four-year state institutions to those of private universities, you'll see that the proportion of minority students at private colleges is slightly greater than at their state school counterparts. Also, low and middle-income students make up almost the same portion of the student population at private universities as they do at state universities. And finally, students who are responsible for supporting themselves or a family typically attend private colleges at the same rate as they do state schools.

Myth #3: It takes longer to graduate from private colleges than it does at state institutions.

Truth be told... Contrary to popular belief, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU) states that it takes less time for students to earn their bachelor's degrees at private colleges than it does for them to do so at state institutions (79 percent versus 49 percent graduate in four years or less). This saves students the burden of paying extra tuition, and allows them the opportunity to get a jumpstart on the job market.

We hope our truth-telling has been helpful to you in your decision whether or not to attend private colleges and universities. If your curiosity has been piqued, take some time to learn more about the exciting opportunities at private universities.

Source: National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (www.naicu.edu)


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Elise B. Zito is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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