Belgium
Adults can acquire further education through correspondence courses set by the Ministry. Correspondence
courses are intended for old and young people who wish to get on, to improve themselves, to readapt
or retrain, or to get a diploma. In correspondence courses, here known as "distance learning", the student
decides about the rhythm and time needed. Enrolment is not limited to any date.
Those participating are given no special conditions and must see to it that they return their papers for
correction. Each time they do so they receive a new set of lessons. On demand, a certificate for the lessons
followed can be issued. Correspondence courses are free. Those participating only have to pay for books
for some courses and postage. Courses on offer are on a level with those in lower and higher secondary
education or are preparatory courses for exams set by the Civil Service or other centrally organised bodies.
Lucien Bosselaers
