The article presents the material devoted to the problem of finding and scientific substantiation of ways to finance and organize professional education of athletes. Based on the materials of the periodical press and the recommendations of the European Union on the issues of building a dual career, the role of vocational education in the social adaptation of athletes after the end of their career is considered. In the course of the study, the sources of funding for professional education of athletes were identified on the example of a public-professional partnership of the Gaelic players association, Asociacion de Jugadores de Futbol Sala, Giocatori Italiani Basket Associati with universities in Ireland, Spain and Italy. Special attention is paid to the organization of professional education of athletes in the countries of the European Union in accordance with the sports training plan, as well as the calendar of national, regional and international competitions.