Since the tuition is paid by the student rather than public tax dollars, the cost to the family may be greater than the cost in a public university.
Financial aid is more readily available than at a public university.
While some independent colleges are in the most competitive category of admission competition, others are looking for students in the top half of the graduating class. In addition to the typical admission requirements of subjects, grades, and test scores, the independent colleges often take a closer look at individual students by requiring letters of recommendation and, sometimes, personal interviews. Most college-prep students will meet the admission criteria of one or more campuses. There are great differences in size, educational purpose, and emphasis among these institutions. Some campuses may emphasize a particular vocation or religious emphasis.