Guidelines for International Agreements
To formalize and strengthen our global partnerships, Baylor University utilizes formal agreements that outline the terms and conditions of collaboration between institutions. These guidelines ensure that all partnerships are established on a clear, mutual understanding and are aligned with our strategic goals.
To initiate these many types of agreements (see below), contact Baylor’s Center for Global Engagement (CGE). All agreements must be approved by the Vice Provost for Global Engagement.
Process for Establishing an Agreement
The process for developing and officially executing a formal international partnership moves sequentially through five stages: first, Stage 1 (Opportunity & Approval), where the Baylor representative identifies an opportunity and secures preliminary clearance from their supervisor and relevant authorities. Next, Stage 2 (Draft Review) involves collaboratively editing a draft until both parties agree. There is important required language that CGE can help with at this stage. The document then enters Stage 3 (Internal Review) for electronic routing through campus departments and the legal office to ensure compliance. Once cleared, Stage 4 (Execution) occurs and authorized representatives at both institutions officially sign the agreement (done electronically via DocuSign).
Interested in Step-by-Step Instructions? For a comprehensive breakdown of the internal workflow, please consult the "CGE Path to International Agreements" document. Contact us if you need a copy.
Types of International Agreements
The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) and its departments manage various formal agreements to support global partnerships. Below are the primary types of international agreements and the steps required to initiate or renew them.
1. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) & Letter of Support
- Purpose: Establishes a general framework for collaboration and formalizes the relationship between Baylor and a foreign institution. It signals mutual goodwill without binding financial or specific programmatic commitments.
- A Letter of Support documents the very early, initial stages of a potential partnership.
- Next Steps: To initiate an MOU or Letter of Support, Contact Global Partnerships.
2. Student Exchange Agreements
- Purpose: Enables reciprocal student mobility, allowing Baylor students to study abroad while welcoming international students to the Baylor campus.
- Requirement: These agreements are typically paired with an overarching "umbrella" MOU.
- Next Steps: If you want to develop an exchange program or have been approached by a foreign institution, contact Baylor Study Abroad for an initial evaluation.
3. Academic Affiliation & Provider Agreements
- Purpose: Governs structured programs involving international visiting scholars/students, or relationships with third-party organizations that enroll students and support university programs abroad.
- Requirement: Internal consultation is required before entering discussions with any third-party provider.
- Next Steps: Contact Global Partnerships to schedule a preparatory meeting.
4. Agreement Renewals
- Purpose: Maintains and extends active, successful international partnerships.
- Timeline: Renewal requests must be initiated 6–12 months prior to the agreement's expiration date.
- Next Steps: Contact Global Partnerships to schedule a preparatory meeting.
Contact Us
For questions regarding agreements with foreign institutions or organizations, please reach out to the Center for Global Engagement (CGE) for assistance.
- Email: GlobalPartnerships@baylor.edu
- Phone: (254) 710-1461
- Address: One Bear Place #97012, Waco, TX 76798-7000