A private candidate is someone registered for exams but not enrolled in a recognised full-time educational institution, such as a school. They may be registered at a part-time educational centre or an examination centre run by the CXC Local Registrar.
The key difference between a private candidate and a full-time candidate is that private candidates can opt to register for the Alternative Paper to the SBA, if available for the subject. Full-time candidates at educational institutions are not allowed to register for the Alternative Paper.