"study at the college" vs "study in the college"

Question

"study at the college" vs "study in the college"

Both 'study in the college' and 'study at the college' are commonly used phrases, but 'study at the college' is more widely accepted and preferred in English. It is more idiomatic and natural to use 'at' when referring to studying at a specific institution.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

This phrase is the more common way to express that someone is engaged in academic activities at a specific institution.

Examples:

She is studying at the college library.
He spends his evenings studying at the college.
They have a study group at the college.
I usually study at the college cafe.
Students often study at the college campus.

Alternatives:

study in the college
study on the college campus
study within the college
study inside the college
study within the college premises

This phrase can be used to indicate that someone is engaged in academic activities within the college premises.

Examples:

I like to study in the college library.
She spends most of her time studying in the college.
They have a quiet place to study in the college.
He prefers to study in the college cafeteria.
Students often study in the college common room.

Alternatives:

study at the college
study on the college campus
study within the college
study inside the college
study within the college premises

Answer 1

study at the college

This phrase is widely accepted and preferred in English.

Answer 2

study in the college

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English.

"study at the college" vs "study in the college"

study at the college

study in the college

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