This paper is a reflection, on the basis of empirical research conducted in Italy, on theoretical, methodological and systemic-organisational aspects linked to the recognition and validation of the prior learning acquired by adult learners or workers who decide to enrol at university at a later stage in their lives. The interest in this research theme derives from the continuously growing number of adults who enrol on graduate degree programmes. The growing national and European debate on the reform of educational systems which ensued from the Bologna Process is focused on the development of a bridging system between the formal systems of education and the non formal and informal learning contexts, in view of developing validation procedures for prior learning. The research method, which combined both qualitative and quantitative approaches, consisted in a national survey on the basis of a questionnaire submitted to all the Italian universities and used methods of qualitative orientation, such as "Bilan de Competénces" and Biographic Laboratory. The survey helped to identify instruments and organisational procedures for the validation of prior vocational learning. Moreover, on the basis of the research conducted and keeping in mind the international setting, it can be stated that it is only from the perspective of lifelong learning that universities can approach the object at issue.