at college vs in college

Both 'at college' and 'in college' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'At college' is typically used to refer to being physically present at a college or university, while 'in college' is more commonly used to talk about the period of time when someone is enrolled in college or the experience of being a college student.

Last updated: May 17, 2025 • 2492 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to being physically present at a college or university.

"at college"

Use 'at college' when you want to indicate that someone is physically located at a college or university. For example, 'I am currently at college studying for my exams.'

Examples:

She is at college attending a lecture.
He spends most of his time at college in the library.
I met her at college during orientation week.

Show examples from the web [+]

Apr 30, 2012 ... You hear the phrase "at college" less often, but never "at university" in the U.S.. Elsewhere, even next door in Canada, the equivalent phrase ...
... following is the correct form...? "I know you will do great in college" "I know you will do great at college" are both correct? thanks in advance!
The Green at College Park. The Green at College Park, located at 601 S. Pecan Street, is a focal point along the City of Arlington's Center Street Pedestrian Trail.
Visit Cambridge at College Station. 501 University Oaks Blvd. College Station, TX 77840. Phone: 979-694-1500. · Take The Virtual Tour!

Alternatives:

on campus
in the college building
at the university
on the college grounds
in the college campus

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to the period of time when someone is enrolled in college or the experience of being a college student.

"in college"

Use 'in college' when you want to talk about the time period when someone is enrolled in college or the experience of being a college student. For example, 'I am in college studying to become a teacher.'

Examples:

She is currently in college studying psychology.
He will be in college for the next four years.
I was in college when I decided to change my major.

Alternatives:

during college
while in college
as a college student
as a student in college
as a college attendee

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at college vs in college

"at college"

"in college"

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