A dormitory is a space for collective housing of persons attending or belonging to a particular institution. Individuals or small groups may occupy private units, but there is generally less privacy than in normal homes because of various shared facilities and responsibilities.

Residents share a connection to an institution and are housed collectively. Private bedrooms can be present alongside common facilities and shared responsibilities.

An individual room does not establish the privacy and control of an independent apartment. Private homes have a more autonomous living arrangement even when their occupants attend the same institution.