Funding

Continuing education in Liechtenstein is primarily organised and financed privately. State funding is provided to various adult education institutions that are affiliated to the Adult Education Foundation as an umbrella organisation. The foundation promotes adult education in Liechtenstein and coordinates the budget funds approved by Parliament in accordance with the Adult Education Law.

Companies support their employees by organising in-house courses, contributing to the costs of external courses or providing employees with time for continuing education. The Vocational and Professional Education and Training Law (Art. 44, Art. 58) also provides for the state to promote job-oriented CET.

Fees paid by learners

Fees vary according to provider and type of programme.

Financial support for adult learners

Grants

The awarding of educational grants is regulated by the Scholarship Law. The state grants educational support in the form of scholarships (which do not have to be repaid) and interest-free loans (which must be repaid). In principle, persons residing in Liechtenstein who can prove that they have had their ordinary residence in Liechtenstein for at least 3 years without interruption or for a total of at least 5 years at the time of commencement of their education are entitled to apply for educational support. The amount is determined according to the principle of subsidiarity (depending on the income and assets of the legal guardians).

For applicants aged 18 and over, the financial circumstances of the applicant and, if married, the potential contributions of the spouse are taken into account. For applicants up to the age of 25, the contributions of both parents are taken into account, regardless of marital status. From the age of 25, an education grant in the form of a scholarship and interest-free loan can be obtained (regardless of the income of the legal guardians). This expires upon completion of the education.

Support is provided for initial and further school and vocational education leading to a qualification recognised in Liechtenstein, as well as recognised further training.

The Office of Vocational Training and Career Guidance offers counselling for career planning and career organisation. Career counselling services and career coaching for students as well as for adults taking part in a state-run programme for the unemployed are free of charge.

The Department of Labour Market Services (AMS) of the Office of Vocational Training organises and realises integration programmes for the long-term unemployed, including e.g. training and retraining courses, educational practical trainings and professional practical courses, participation in practice companies or in programmes for temporary employment.

Further education vouchers

By awarding further education vouchers, the state promotes adult education and enables people with limited financial resources to attend further education courses within the offer of adult education. 

Subsidies for private providers

Private providers can receive contributions from the public sector. The majority of public contributions are linked to the fulfilment of certain criteria (e.g. sufficient measures for quality development).