At central level, adult education is under the responsibility of the Ministry of education and merit (Ministero dell'istruzione e del merito – MIM, from now on 'Ministry' or MIM); nevertheless, the Centres for adult education (CPIAs), as well as upper secondary schools, are autonomous education institutions organised at local level.

CPIAs organise first-level courses, literacy courses and Italian language courses for foreign adults, while upper secondary schools offer second-level courses.