The Federal Government has not made up its mind on whether private providers should be included on its My University website, according to a report.
According to The Australian, 'concerns' have been raised over students confusing private higher education providers with public universities.
One solution could be to include private providers, but make it very clear they are separate to universities.
My University, expected to launch in July, will measure Australia's 39 universities on a variety of indicators.
Possible indicators could include staff to student ratios; results of student satisfaction surveys; graduate outcomes; and quality of teaching and learning outcomes.
The Government is hoping students will use the website to make a more informed choice about their higher education choices.
Private colleges can offer Bachelor Degrees and Associate Degrees, as well as postgraduate qualifications such as Masters Degrees, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.
Unlike universities, private higher education institutions do not engage in research and must be accredited in their state.