Distance learning and external studies in the system of continuous learning

The article deals with extra-institutional forms of getting education: self-education with subsequent external studies in getting general education and distance learning in getting higher education. The objective of the article is to substantiate distance learning as a form of self-education, as a technology which makes education more accessible for different layers of society irrespective of their place of residence and the chosen study program. Different forms of study are compared according to the criteria of their efficiency or quality, accessibility or transparency and affordability.