A comparison of formal policies and practices for dual career implementation in European universities

Purpose As part of the project FIND-ME: University Dual Career Opportunities (FIND ME – 101134043), this study explores how dual career (DC) practices for student-athletes (SAs) are implemented), focusing on the balance between formal (policy-based) and informal (practice-based) approaches across partner institutions. Methods Each participating country conducted a desk analysis of national and institutional DC regulations. In parallel, a 31-item online survey was administered to higher education experts to assess DC implementation in five domains: logistical support, academic assistance/tutorship, curricular flexibility, social support, and financial aid. Results The analysis revealed considerable cross-country variability and a strong reliance on informal practices. Logistical support was mainly informal in Spain (54%), Italy (76%), Serbia (88%), Romania and Slovenia (100%). Assistance/tutorship showed similar informal trends: Spain (43%), Italy (52%), Serbia (35%), Romania (54%), and Slovenia (55%). Curricular flexibility remained partly formalized (29–56%), whereas social support was mostly informal, except in Spain (50%). Financial support was the least formalized area across all contexts (13–32%). Conclusions These findings highlight a widespread dependence on informal DC measures and underscore the need for harmonized policies to ensure equitable DC support. Results will guide the development of the FIND-ME platform as an evidence-based DC tool for higher education institutions.