Public expense means that the state pays you tuition and fees, and even a living allowance. It is enough for you to pay a small sum of money yourself, but it was cancelled one after another at the end of last century, that is, in recent years.
At present, graduate students in some schools are still at public expense, but most of them have also become self-funded.
Spend money.
As for your question, after paying tens of thousands, the standard will be the same as other students.
Therefore, you should also work hard and don't be left behind by others.