Second-chance education

'Second-chance education' refers to educational programmes that enable the acquisition of formal educational qualifications after leaving school.

These include the school-leaving qualification at the end of compulsory schooling (Pflichtschulabschluss) and intermediate and higher general and vocational qualifications (examinations for external students). Unrestricted access to universities, institutions of higher education and colleges is also possible via the higher education entrance examination (Berufsreifeprüfung). The limited higher education entrance qualification (Studienberechtigungsprüfung) provides access solely to specific courses.

Those who want to acquire a basic education can attend basic education programmes at adult education institutions.

For many people, qualification-oriented adult education represents an important non-school-based alternative. People with little or no school-based education as well as people who want to change career path can find adult education opportunities at all stages of their lives.

BMBWF funding programmes are available for basic education and school-leaving qualifications as part of the Adult Education Initiative.