In Spanish, there are different words for "school" depending on the level and type of education:
- Escuela: A place for learning, usually for younger students (elementary and primary).
- Colegio: Often refers to a private school or a secondary school, and sometimes used for institutions that serve older children.
- Universidad: Where higher education and academic degrees are pursued (university).
*escuela* is used for elementary and primary school.
*universidad* means university, where students pursue higher education.
*colegio* is commonly used for private schools and secondary schools.
Escuela
Escuela is the standard term for "school," especially for elementary and primary education. It's where children typically begin their formal education.
- Used primarily for early education (primary/elementary).
- Can refer to both public and private institutions at the primary level.
- Not usually used for higher levels of education.
*escuela* is not used for university; it's for primary/elementary education.
Colegio
Colegio generally refers to a school for older children, often covering secondary education. In many Spanish-speaking countries, it also means a private school.
- Can mean secondary or high school (colegio secundaria).
- Often used for private or prestigious schools.
- Less common for public primary education.
*colegio* does not refer to university education (higher education).
Universidad
Universidad is the term for "university," where students pursue higher education and earn degrees.
- Applies to institutions offering undergraduate and postgraduate education.
- Not used for primary, secondary, or vocational schools.
- Central places for academic research and advanced studies.
No, *universidad* is for higher education, not for young children's schooling.
Conclusion
If you're talking about education in Spanish, it's important to use the right term for the right level:
- Escuela is for young children (primary/elementary).
- Colegio is often for middle/high school or private schools.
- Universidad is for higher education (college/university).
A private high school would be called a *colegio*.
*escuela* is not used for university; *universidad* is the correct term.