This database is the main source of information about vocational education and training (VET) systems in the European Union, Iceland and Norway.

It helps policy makers, social partners, researchers and other stakeholders better understand similarities and differences of national VET systems through easy-to-navigate up-to-date descriptions that are structured by theme. The database also contains detailed information about each VET programme type, including qualification levels, share of work-based learning, providers, target groups, etc.

Cedefop has designed, piloted and populated the database in close cooperation with national partners with the view to provide access to VET system information for all but also to meet specific needs of users. These needs were identified during the pan-European ex-ante evaluation that preceded the development of the database. 

Data collection for this database is being supported by ReferNet – a network of institutions across Europe representing all Member States, plus Iceland and Norway. The network is partly financed by the European Union and provides Cedefop with information and analysis on national vocational education and training.

Cedefop populated the database for the first time in 2019. Updates are foreseen every two years. The database will also contain the historical data.