Abstract:

Cross-border dual education (apprenticeship or alternance) represents a significant opportunity for enhancing student mobility and employability in European border regions, yet its practical implementation is often hindered by complex legal and administrative barriers. This study analyzes the current normative frameworks of France, Spain, and Andorra to provide strategic and operative recommendations for facilitating international training pathways. The research identifies and categorizes four distinct scenarios of cross-border mobility: ranging from students training in one country while working in another, to shared curricula across multiple institutions and companies.

The analysis highlights critical obstacles, including the lack of recognized international contracts, administrative burdens for companies, and inconsistent funding mechanisms between countries. Based on these findings, the study proposes a phased implementation roadmap: short-term solutions leverage existing Erasmus+ frameworks and inter-institutional cooperation; medium-term actions focus on company-led personnel transfers and legal "posting" mechanisms; and long-term objectives advocate for bilateral state agreements to harmonize national legislations. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the role of cross-border entities—such as Eurorregions and the Working Community of the Pyrenees (CTP)—in advocating for policy changes and increasing the visibility of dual education benefits. The research concludes with a practical "Vademecum" designed to guide students, higher education institutions, and companies through the specific administrative requirements and legal options available in each jurisdiction.

Keywords:

Dual Education, Cross-border Mobility, Higher Education, Legal Framework, Apprenticeship.