Vocational education and training - VET

What role does vocational education and training play in countries’ education systems?
Vocational education and training (VET) is a key component of most education systems in OECD countries. About one in three 25-34 year-olds have a vocational qualification as their highest level achieved, whether at upper secondary, post-secondary non-tertiary or short-cycle tertiary level.

The bulk of vocational training is delivered at upper secondary level. More than two-thirds of students pursuing vocational education are enrolled in an upper secondary programme.

VET programmes also serve learners who are no longer in initial education. VET provision includes occupational training for adults, upskilling and reskilling, and second chance programmes that are part of the formal education and training system. For this reason, students enrolled in vocational programmes are often older than those in general ones. On average across OECD countries, the average age of enrolment in upper secondary education is higher for students in vocational education (21 years) than for students enrolled in general education (17 years). About two-thirds of the 20-24 year-old upper secondary level students are in VET programmes.

Education at a Glance is the definitive guide to the state of education around the world. It analyses all levels of education and provides data on topics such as attainment, enrolment, finance and the organisation of education systems. The 2023 edition focuses on vocational education and training (VET) - a vital part of a country’s education system that offers students an alternative to academic-focused education. Readers interested in a summary of the main findings on VET are referred to the accompanying Spotlight on VET (OECD, 2023).