What defines a non-profit post-secondary institution?

A non-profit post-secondary institution is defined primarily by its commitment to education without the intention of making a profit. These institutions are often established to provide a public or community service, focusing on the well-being and advancement of their students rather than generating financial returns for shareholders or owners. This means that any excess revenue they generate is typically reinvested into the institution to improve facilities, expand educational programs, or reduce tuition costs for students.

This definition emphasizes the core mission of non-profit institutions, which is to provide educational opportunities and support rather than to create profit. While some non-profit institutions may receive government funding, this does not solely define their status. Similarly, being focused on research or offering online courses does not inherently categorize an institution as non-profit; those characteristics can be present in both non-profit and for-profit schools. Thus, the primary distinguishing feature of a non-profit post-secondary institution remains its goal to benefit students and the community, without the profit motive at its core.