A learner support system helps learners with problems that have less to do with the content of a course than with such matters as:

• Deciding what to study and making other preenrollment decisions
• Determining readiness to study at a particular level
• Developing study skills
• Managing the learning program while facing personal, financial, or health problems
• Dealing with the teaching institution's bureaucracy
• Dealing with the special problems of study posed by visual or other impairments
• Handling problems with examinations and assignments
• Handling problems with an instructor
• Making decisions on career and postgraduation issues.

In a single-mode institution learner support may be provided by specialist counselors, often based at study centers.

In a distance learning program or dual-mode institution learner support may be the responsibility of the instructor who teaches on the Internet or by correspondence, broadcasting, or video or audio conferencing. Some authors consider instruction part of learner support.