The European Higher Education Area increasingly emphasizes the importance of study practices that enable students to combine academic knowledge with practical experience in a real working environment. The MILEAGE project – Developing Mentoring for Quality Internships in Higher Education – was developed in response to this need, with the aim of improving the quality, inclusion, and learning impact of study placements and strengthening cooperation between higher education institutions, non-governmental organizations, and university career services.

The project brings together partners from Slovenia, Italy, and Finland, who have developed the MILEAGE study practice model through a joint process of comparative analysis, co-creation, and capacity building. This comprehensive model incorporates pedagogical, organizational, and mentoring aspects and provides a structured approach to the planning, implementation, and support of study practices, aimed at meaningful, equitable, and high-quality learning experiences for all students.

The publication TOWARDS EXCELLENCE: Quality support system for study practices presents the key results of the project. It contains a synthesis of analyses of national study practice systems, a detailed presentation of the six-stage MILEAGE model, the development of three professional tools for key stakeholders (career advisors, higher education institution coordinators, and mentors in non-governmental organizations), and a practical quality checklist. These tools enable higher education institutions to implement the MILEAGE model effectively, systematically, and sustainably, and contribute to raising the standards of study practices in the European higher education area.