All forms and types of education pursued by those who have left formal education at any point and who entered employment and/or assumed adult responsibilities.
Source: UNESCO 1984, Global

Educational programmes for adults in personal, academic and occupational subject areas. It allows individuals to complete formal education, to acquire or update knowledge and skills and gain qualifications. It can take place within and outside the formal education system.
Source: ILO 2006, Global

Continuing education covers the learning activity of those returning to education after having left initial education. The full-time equivalent duration of the programmed is at least one semester.
Source: CEDEFOP 2008, Europe

Educational programs for adults, usually at the post-secondary level and offered as part-time or short courses in personal, academic or occupational subject areas.
Source: NCVER 2013, Australia

Various forms of education provided for adults consisting both of qualifications and part qualifications, as well as short or part-time courses.
Source: SAQA 2013, South Africa