The cost of providing a higher education for similar programs is generally the same at private colleges and universities as at public universities. However, private institutions charge a higher price, or tuition, because they are not subsidized by the state.
Cost is what an institution spends to provide educational and related services.
The cost of a higher education is typically more than what an institution charges its students. Price, also known as tuition, is what the institution charges you. The price, or tuition, you have to pay is lowered by the amount of financial aid you receive. Financial aid may be in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, or work study. Grants and scholarships do not have to be repaid.