What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
college
Example
I'm studying biology at college. [college: noun]
Example
She is a professor in the college of engineering. [college: noun]
school
Example
I go to school every day to learn new things. [school: noun]
Example
He is a teacher at the local elementary school. [school: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
School is more commonly used than college in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of educational levels and is more familiar to people of all ages. College is more specific and is commonly used when referring to higher education institutions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between college and school?
While school is generally used in both formal and informal contexts, college is more commonly used in formal settings, such as academic discussions, official documents, and professional contexts.
