University or private school, how to choose?
At the end of high school it is time to choose higher education. Should you enroll in university or choose a private school? Several criteria must be taken into account to make the most appropriate decision.
According to figures from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, for the year 2016-2017, 474,500 students chose private education and 1.6 million registered for university. Choosing one or the other course involves knowing yourself well and knowing what best suits your profile.
A step towards autonomy in university, and a secure framework in the private sector
A first important criterion to take into account when choosing between university and private school is the ability and desire to work independently. Indeed, the university offers greater freedom and more self-management. Attendance in lectures is not checked, it is up to everyone to attend. The classes are larger and therefore more impersonal. The positive aspect of these same points is that it offers students greater autonomy in their learning.
Conversely, in private schools, classes are generally smaller and everyone’s presence is checked. Which can be more reassuring for students who need a structuring framework, particularly after high school. Taking a personality test can help you better analyze your learning style and operating preferences.
Two different teaching approaches
Private schools have a privileged relationship with the professional world. The training courses are intended to be professional and they offer a concrete pedagogy which aims for integration into working life. Furthermore, they generally have a network of companies, both national and international, which encourages the search for internships or even jobs later.
However, universities have also made progress on the subject and are increasingly forging close links with the professional world. However, university training is less focused on the professional world and places emphasis on general culture. Personal work and research are part of the DNA of the university curriculum. The knowledge acquired by students will be broader and more general than in most private schools. Furthermore, universities offer a variety of short or long courses which allow students to build their course according to their desires.
Recognized diplomas
Some private schools are not recognized by the state. Also the end-of-studies exams are not validated by a diploma but by a certificate. The quality of the training can be very good but it is important to keep in mind that this does not necessarily deliver a diploma recognized by the State, which will always be the case following university training.
A question of price
Another factor that will often be taken into account in the choice between university and private school is of course the price of studies. Indeed, the difference in registration fees is very significant. In public establishments the fees for the year 2018-2019 amounted to 170 euros for a year of Bachelor’s cycle, 243 euros for a year of Master’s and 601 euros for a year of engineering training in an establishment under supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education. And university studies are completely free for scholarship students. These very low costs are made possible thanks to the fact that in France the State provides 90% of the financial effort, one of the largest in the world.
