Micro-credentials in Europe: what’s changed so far—and where are we heading
The new publication Progress report on the implementation of the Council Recommendation on a European approach to micro-credentials for lifelong learning and employability takes a close look at how EU Member States and associated countries are turning micro-credentials from policy into practice. Karin Luomi-Messerer and Zsuzsanna Zarka contributed to the report.
The report is based on a comprehensive survey carried out in the second half of 2024, gathering input from ministries of education, higher education authorities, members of the tripartite Advisory Committee on Vocational Training, and public employment services. The findings offer a solid snapshot of where systems stood in 2024—while recognising that this field is moving fast and further developments may have taken place since the data were collected.
Across higher education, vocational education and training (VET), and employment systems, the study examines how countries are aligning with the Council Recommendation—starting with the basics (shared definitions and common features of micro-credentials) and moving to what makes them work in practice: quality assurance and recognition arrangements, funding approaches, and the information systems needed for transparency and uptake. It also looks at how micro-credentials are being used and promoted in different learning settings, how they connect to wider policy initiatives and EU instruments, and what challenges countries face as they develop coherent micro-credentials ecosystems.
Overall, the report points to real progress, especially given how recently the Recommendation was adopted. At the same time, it highlights uneven uptake across the different elements proposed—showing that implementation is advancing at different speeds depending on the system, and that gaps remain in key areas.
Contact: Karin Luomi-Messerer
Client: European Commission
