College vs. University in the US: A Comprehensive Guide

The American higher education system has long attracted students from all over the world, offering a wide range of opportunities and prestigious degrees. However, for Poles, the term “college” can be a source of some confusion. In Poland, “college” is often associated with a post-secondary vocational school or a specific type of college, rather than a typical higher education institution. This article aims to explain what “college” truly means in the United States and how this concept differs from Polish universities, polytechnics, and academies. If you are planning to study in the USA, understanding these differences is absolutely fundamental.

How does “college” differ from “university” and other Polish higher education institutions?

In the United States, the terms “college” and “university” are often used interchangeably, especially in everyday conversation when referring to post-secondary education. You might hear both “going to college” and “going to university” to describe the same stage of education. Nevertheless, there is a key distinction.

A “college” typically refers to an institution that primarily focuses on offering undergraduate studies, which are programs usually lasting four years and culminating in a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. In contrast, a “university” is generally a larger institution that, in addition to undergraduate programs, also offers master’s and doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees, known as graduate studies.

It’s also worth noting that a “college” can exist as an independent institution, separate from a university. Liberal Arts Colleges, which we will discuss more later, are an example. It can also be part of a larger university, serving as a department or a unit responsible for undergraduate programs. A good example is Yale College, which is part of Yale University. Yale College students benefit from the resources of the entire university but maintain their own structures and traditions. Similarly, Harvard College operates within Harvard University, and MIT offers its undergraduate programs as part of the larger Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Comparing this to the Polish higher education system, we see significant differences. In Poland, there is a clear division into universities, polytechnics (technical universities), and academies, each type specializing in specific fields and offering various levels of education. Studies in Poland are also organized into a two-stage system within the Bologna Process: three-year undergraduate studies (licencjat or inżynier) are the first cycle, and two-year master’s studies (magister) constitute the second cycle. In the USA, undergraduate studies are typically longer and often more interdisciplinary at the outset, giving students more time to choose a specific major. It’s worth reading our article on how the Polish Matura exam translates to the requirements of foreign universities.

Comparison of Higher Education Systems

Features	American “College” (often)	Polish Higher Education System (examples)
Level of study	Primarily undergraduate	Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctoral
Terminology	”College” and “University” often interchangeable, “College” can be part of a “University”	University, Polytechnic, Academy - distinct types
Length of undergraduate studies	Typically 4 years	Typically 3 years (licencjat)
Option to choose specialization	Often after the first or second year	Often from the beginning of studies
Typical institutions	Liberal Arts Colleges, Community Colleges, Undergraduate Colleges within universities	Universities (general, technical, medical, artistic), Academies

Discover the different faces of American “colleges”

Within the American higher education system, there are several main types of “colleges” that differ in their character, educational offerings, and mission. Understanding these differences is crucial for a Polish reader.

Liberal Arts Colleges - comprehensive education first and foremost

Liberal Arts Colleges are institutions that emphasize a broad education in fields such as:

• humanities (literature, history, philosophy)
• social sciences (sociology, political science, economics)
• natural sciences (mathematics, physics, biology)

They are typically smaller in size compared to universities, which translates into smaller classes and better interaction between students and faculty. Teaching methods are often interactive, and many of these schools are residential, meaning most students live on campus.

At Liberal Arts Colleges, instructors are usually full-time professors, not doctoral assistants, which is more common at large research universities. These institutions can be coeducational or single-sex, private or public, and secular or religiously affiliated. Some are Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and others offer experimental curricula.

Examples of well-known Liberal Arts Colleges include Williams College, Amherst College, Pomona College, Wellesley College, and Carleton College. Their goal is to develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills in students, preparing them for diverse career paths and graduate studies. In the Polish system, where specialization often begins earlier, Liberal Arts Colleges might seem less familiar, but their emphasis on a comprehensive education is valued in the USA for fostering adaptability and problem-solving skills.

Community Colleges - two years to a goal or a vocational path

Community Colleges are two-year public higher education institutions that primarily offer programs leading to an Associate’s Degree (AA - Associate of Arts or AS - Associate of Science). They serve several important functions in the American education system:

1. They offer vocational programs that prepare students for specific occupations after two years of study.
2. They provide a popular transfer pathway to universities. Students can complete two years of study at a Community College, earn an Associate’s Degree, and then transfer to a four-year university to continue their undergraduate studies and earn a Bachelor’s Degree.

This so-called “2+2” process is often more financially accessible because tuition fees at Community Colleges are typically lower than at universities. In the 2025-2026 academic year, average annual tuition at a community college was 4,000-12,000 USD, while at four-year public institutions it was 10,000-15,000 USD for in-state students. Community Colleges also feature a more flexible admissions process, often with an open admissions policy for individuals with a high school diploma or GED (General Educational Development test). You can read more about the cost of studying in the USA in our dedicated guide.

They primarily serve local communities and labor markets, offering an affordable path to higher education. Examples of popular Community Colleges include Santa Monica College, Pasadena City College, and Houston Community College. For Polish students, Community Colleges can be an attractive option to start studies in the USA, allowing them to save initial costs and gradually adapt to the American education system. It’s also a good option for those looking for a way to study in the USA for free.

Colleges as part of universities - an undergraduate degree under the wing of a giant

Many large universities in the USA have smaller units within their structure called “colleges,” which are responsible for conducting undergraduate programs. Examples include Harvard College within Harvard University, Yale College within Yale University, and Columbia College within Columbia University. These institutions belong to the prestigious Ivy League, a group of eight elite universities with exceptionally low acceptance rates.

Students of these “colleges” are formally part of the university and have access to its wide resources, such as libraries, laboratories, and other facilities. However, undergraduate programs within these “colleges” often have their own, more focused academic structure, culture, and student community.

For example, Yale College offers over 2,000 undergraduate courses in the liberal arts and sciences, and many distinguished university professors teach introductory-level classes. The concept of a “college” within a university can resemble Polish “wydziały” (departments/faculties), but often places greater emphasis on the coherence of the undergraduate experience and building a strong identity among students at this level.

Other examples of universities with well-known “colleges” include Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of Chicago.

How is learning organized in a “college”? From departments to the credit system

The academic structure of a typical “college” in the USA differs in many respects from that known in Polish universities. Understanding how learning is organized is crucial for any Polish student considering studying in the United States.

Departments - division into specializations

Both “colleges” and universities in the USA are divided into departments, which group scholars and offer courses in specific fields of study. Examples of typical departments include:

• English Department
• Department of Computer Science
• Department of Economics
• Department of Biology

Each department has its own faculty, curriculum, and often its own buildings or wings of buildings on campus. Students who choose a particular major will work closely with the department offering that major, attending classes taught by its professors and utilizing its resources.

Major and Minor - Your academic identity

One of the key features of the American higher education system is the ability to choose a main field of study (major) and an optional additional specialization (minor). A major is the field in which a student concentrates most of their studies and intends to earn a degree.

The choice of a major usually occurs after the first or second year of studies, which gives students time to explore different subjects and discover their true interests. Examples of popular majors in the USA include:

• business
• health
• social sciences and history
• biological and biomedical sciences
• psychology
• engineering
• computer science

Additionally, students often have the option to choose a minor in a related or entirely different field. A minor is a less intensive program of study in a chosen field that allows students to broaden their knowledge and skills in an area complementing their major or simply aligning with their interests.

Popular minors include business, a foreign language, computer science, creative writing, or political science. This flexibility in choosing a major and minor, often after starting studies, represents a significant difference compared to the Polish system, where students typically apply for a specific, defined field of study from the very beginning.

Course and credit system - measure your progress

American “colleges” operate on a course and credit system. Each course, depending on its intensity and workload, is assigned a specific number of credit points. Successfully completing a course, meaning earning a passing grade, results in the student being awarded that number of credit points.

To graduate and receive a diploma, a student must accumulate a specific total number of credit points, which varies depending on the type of degree (e.g., Associate’s, Bachelor’s) and the field of study.

The number of credit points assigned to a given course reflects the estimated student workload, including time spent in classes (lectures, exercises, labs) and time dedicated to independent study (reading, writing papers, preparing for exams). Typically, one credit point corresponds to one hour of class per week and approximately two hours of independent student work per semester. Most undergraduate courses are worth 3 or 4 credit points.

In the USA, the semester system prevails, where the academic year is divided into two main semesters (fall and spring), each lasting approximately 15-16 weeks. Some institutions also use a quarter system, with four shorter study periods during the year. Understanding the credit system is important for Polish students as it allows them to plan their course of study, monitor progress towards their degree, and potentially transfer credits between different institutions.

American-style student life: Dorms, clubs, and sports

Student life at an American “college” is not just about academics; it also encompasses a rich array of extracurricular activities and a strong social culture. For many students, the on-campus living experience is an integral part of their education. It’s worth noting that extracurricular activities play a crucial role not only in student life but, most importantly, in the admissions process for American universities.

Accommodation (Dormitories, On-Campus Housing) - Your place on campus

Most American “colleges” offer various on-campus housing options, including traditional dormitories (or residence halls) and student apartments (on-campus housing). Dormitories are often buildings where students share rooms (usually double, less often single or triple) and have shared bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas.

Student apartments offer more privacy, often with private bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchenettes, shared with a few other students. Living on campus is particularly popular among first-year students because it facilitates integration into the academic community and access to classes and other campus amenities.

Many universities offer coeducational (mixed-gender) or single-sex housing options, as well as “themed housing,” where students with similar interests (e.g., arts, languages) live together. It’s worth noting that the emphasis on living on campus as a central element of the “college” experience may differ from Poland, where many students live off-campus or commute from home.

Student Organizations (Clubs and Organizations) - develop passions and network

American “colleges” are renowned for their vast number of student organizations (clubs and organizations), which offer students countless opportunities to develop their passions, hobbies, skills, and build connections. There are organizations:

• academic
• sports (both recreational and club sports)
• cultural
• artistic
• social
• volunteer
• religious
• and many others

Students can join existing clubs or start their own if they don’t find an organization that matches their interests. Examples include chess clubs, music ensembles, drama clubs, student environmental organizations, literature clubs, associations for students from different countries, and many, many more.

Student organizations play a key role in building campus community, allowing students to meet people with similar interests, develop leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, and actively participate in “college” life. The richness and diversity of these organizations likely surpass what is typically available at Polish universities.

Sporting and cultural events - feel the “college” spirit

Sporting and cultural events are incredibly important in American “college” student life and are a significant element in building community spirit and institutional identity. Games and sports tournaments, especially in popular disciplines like American football, basketball, or baseball, attract crowds of students, alumni, and local residents, creating an amazing atmosphere.

Rivalries between universities, often with long-standing traditions, evoke immense emotion and loyalty. An example is the annual football game between Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley, which is accompanied by the building of a huge bonfire on the Stanford campus.

Cultural events, such as concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, film festivals, and others, also play an important role in campus life, offering students entertainment, opportunities to engage with culture, and showcase their own talents. Often, unique traditions are associated with sporting events, such as “tailgating,” which involves picnics and parties organized before games in parking lots around stadiums.

Sports in American “colleges” hold much greater cultural significance than in Poland, often becoming a central element of students’ and alumni’s identity.

Student community - Your new family

A “college” in the USA is not just a place to acquire knowledge, but above all, a community where students spend a significant part of their time, forge friendships, and build relationships that often last a lifetime. Integration into the student community is extremely important for academic and personal success.

Students who feel part of the community are more engaged in campus life, achieve better academic results, and are less likely to drop out. Living together in dormitories, participating in student organizations, attending sporting and cultural events, and daily interactions with other students in classes and common areas all contribute to creating a strong and supportive student community that, for many, becomes their new family.

Applying to “college” step-by-step - a guide for Polish students

The application process for an American “college” from the perspective of a Polish student may seem complicated, but with proper preparation, it is entirely achievable. A detailed description of the entire process can be found in our article The US College Application Process Step-by-Step.

Required documents - what you need to prepare

When applying to an American “college,” you will need to prepare a number of documents. These typically include:

1. Online application: Most universities use their own online application systems or the Common Application platform, which allows you to apply to multiple universities simultaneously.
2. High school transcripts: You will need to provide official transcripts of your grades from your Polish high school, translated into English by a certified translator. Learn more about converting Matura exam results.
3. Application essays: Most universities require one or more application essays, in which you will need to describe your interests, experiences, motivations, and future plans.
4. Letters of recommendation: You will need to ask teachers or mentors from your high school to write letters of recommendation, which will assess your academic achievements, character, and potential.
5. Proof of sufficient financial resources: As an international student, you will need to prove that you have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in the USA. This can be in the form of bank statements, scholarship certificates, or letters from sponsors.
6. Copy of a valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months longer than your planned period of stay in the USA. You can read more about student visas to the USA in a separate article.

The application process for American “colleges” is often more holistic and demanding than for Polish universities, where the main criterion is usually Matura exam results. In the USA, in addition to grades and test scores, great importance is placed on essays, letters of recommendation, and your extracurricular involvement. It is worth familiarizing yourself with our application timeline for studying abroad so that nothing takes you by surprise.

Standardized tests - Your admission ticket (SAT/ACT, TOEFL/IELTS)

Most American “colleges” require undergraduate applicants to take standardized exams: the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) or ACT (American College Testing). These exams are designed to assess your skills in reading, writing, and mathematics and to compare candidates from diverse educational backgrounds. Some universities may accept scores from only one of these exams, others both. It’s worth checking the specific university’s requirements. To prepare for the SAT, we recommend Prepclass.io – a learning platform with diagnostic tests and an adaptive study plan.

For candidates for whom English is not their native language (including most Polish students), it is also necessary to take an English language proficiency exam, such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System). These exams test your English language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Minimum required scores vary by university, but typically range around 80-100 points for TOEFL and 6.5-7.0 for IELTS. Some universities may offer a waiver of this requirement if your high school conducted classes in English. It’s important to remember that the SAT/ACT and TOEFL/IELTS exams are not part of the Polish Matura exam and require separate preparation and registration.

Scholarships - how to finance studies in the USA

The cost of studying in the USA can be high (we have described them in detail in the article How much do studies in the USA cost), but there are many opportunities to obtain scholarships for international students. Scholarships can be offered by the universities themselves based on academic achievement, financial need, or other criteria.

Some prestigious universities, such as Harvard and Yale, offer full scholarships covering all study costs for talented international students who demonstrate appropriate financial need. In 2026, Harvard allocates over 250 million USD annually for financial aid, and 55% of students receive need-based scholarships. There are also scholarships offered by external organizations, foundations, and governments, such as the Fulbright Program for international students.

Many scholarships require additional essays, letters of recommendation, or an interview process. Searching and applying for scholarships requires time and effort but can significantly reduce the cost of studies.

Examples of scholarships for international students include:

• Dr. Elemer and Eva Kiss Scholarship Fund
• MPOWER Monthly Scholarship Series
• #YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship

It is advisable to start looking for scholarships as early as possible and carefully check the eligibility criteria and application deadlines. If you need support with the application process, College Council experts can help you find the best scholarship options tailored to your profile.

American “colleges” behind the scenes: Curiosities and anecdotes

Life at an American “college” is not just about academics and formalities. It’s also a unique culture, traditions, and interesting stories. Here are a few anecdotes and facts that might interest a Polish reader:

• First-Year Run (Williams College): At the beginning of the academic year, first-year students run from their dorms to the college president’s house at midnight. This tradition symbolizes the start of their academic journey.
• Naked Run (Wesleyan University): On the last day of classes each semester, Wesleyan University students run naked across campus to relieve pre-exam stress.
• Primal Scream (Harvard University): At midnight before the start of exam season, Harvard students gather in Harvard Yard and scream as loudly as they can to release stress and tension.
• Bonfire before “The Big Game” (Stanford University): Before the annual football game against the University of California, Berkeley, Stanford students build a huge bonfire on campus.
• Kissing Rock (Wellesley College): Legend has it that if a student kisses the Kissing Rock at Wellesley College, she will get engaged within a year.
• Painting the Cannon (Carleton College): Carleton College students paint an old cannon on campus every year, covering it with messages and drawings.
• Yale University Motto: “Lux et Veritas,” which means “Light and Truth” in Latin, has been the motto of Yale University since 1736 and reflects the university’s commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and truth. It can be found carved on many campus buildings.
• MIT Pirate License: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) students who complete courses in archery, fencing, sailing, and pistol or rifle shooting can receive a “pirate license.” However, it does not grant the right to board ships.
• World’s Largest Scavenger Hunt (University of Chicago): The University of Chicago hosts the world’s largest scavenger hunt every year, a university tradition since 1987. The task list includes both finding items and completing various creative challenges.
• Caltech’s Undefeated Football Team: The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) football team has been undefeated since 1993. This is because the university has not had a football team since then.

These curiosities show that American “colleges” are not just serious academic institutions, but also places full of unique traditions, humor, and unforgettable stories.

Summary: Key differences and how to get started

In summary, the American “college” is a broad and diverse concept that often refers to undergraduate studies but can also mean an independent institution or part of a larger university. Key differences compared to the Polish higher education system include distinct terminology, study structure, flexibility in choosing a major, and rich on-campus student life.

If you are considering studying in the USA, remember to thoroughly familiarize yourself with the requirements of specific universities and start the application process well in advance. College Council consultants and the Okiro.io platform can help you navigate the entire process – from choosing a university to submitting your application.

Read also

• How much do studies in the USA cost - a detailed guide
• The US College Application Process Step-by-Step
• Scholarships for studies in the USA for Poles
• Ivy League - the elite league of American universities

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a college in the USA?

A college in the USA is a higher education institution primarily offering four-year undergraduate studies. It can be an independent institution (e.g., a Liberal Arts College) or part of a larger university (e.g., Harvard College within Harvard University). In common parlance, “college” simply refers to higher education.

Is a college worse than a university?

No. In the USA, college and university are different types of institutions, but neither is inherently “worse.” Many prestigious Liberal Arts Colleges (e.g., Williams, Amherst, Pomona) offer outstanding undergraduate education and are more highly regarded than some universities. The difference lies in a college’s focus on undergraduate programs, while a university also offers master’s and doctoral studies.

How much do studies at an American college cost?

The cost of studies in the USA for the 2025-2026 academic year ranges from approximately 4,000-12,000 USD annually at Community Colleges, through 10,000-15,000 USD at public state universities (for in-state students), up to 40,000-75,000 USD at private universities. Additionally, there are costs for accommodation, food, and materials. However, many universities offer generous scholarships for international students.

How can I get into an American college with a Polish Matura exam?

The Polish Matura exam is accepted by most American universities, but it usually needs to be supplemented with SAT or ACT scores, a TOEFL/IELTS certificate, application essays, letters of recommendation, and documentation of extracurricular activities. Documents must be officially translated into English and usually require an Apostille. It’s advisable to start the entire application process 12-18 months before the planned start of studies.

What is a Community College and is it worth starting studies there?

A Community College is a two-year public institution offering an Associate’s Degree. It is a popular and more affordable starting point for a four-year university (the “2+2” model). Tuition averages 4,000-12,000 USD per year. For Polish students, it’s a good option to reduce initial costs and adapt to the American education system before transferring to a prestigious university.

What is a Liberal Arts College?

A Liberal Arts College is an institution focused on a comprehensive education in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It is characterized by small classes (often 10-20 students), close contact with professors, and an emphasis on critical thinking. Examples include Williams College, Amherst College, and Pomona College. It’s an excellent choice for students who want to gain a broad education before potentially specializing in graduate studies.

What exams do I need to take to apply to a college in the USA?

The most commonly required exams are the SAT or ACT (although many universities have a “test-optional” policy for 2026) and the TOEFL or IELTS to confirm English language proficiency. Leading universities expect a TOEFL score of 100+ or IELTS 7.0-7.5. The SAT and ACT exams can be taken in Poland at international testing centers.

Can a Polish student get a scholarship to study in the USA?

Yes, many American universities offer scholarships for international students, including those from Poland. The most generous universities (Harvard, MIT, Yale, Princeton) cover 100% of demonstrated financial need. There are also external scholarships, such as the Fulbright Program or #YouAreWelcomeHere. It’s advisable to start looking for scholarships 12-18 months before applying and consult with College Council advisors.