International Agreement Types

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Document of Understanding (DOU), Letter of Understanding (LOU), Letter of Intent (LOI)

Non-binding in nature, these can be between two or more parties to document a commitment to explore or to progress an agreed range of opportunities.

Memorandum of Academic Cooperation (MAC)

Either non-binding or binding, this type of agreement is between the University and a partner to set out a framework for a specific project or identified and particular collaborative activities.

Articulation Agreement (AA)

Sets out the terms and conditions under which Western Sydney University will recognise a prescribed body of study by a student at the partner institution for entry into a Western Sydney University degree with credit or advanced standing.  The agreement will specify units and length of study required at the home institution and units and length of time required at Western Sydney University.

Guaranteed Admission Agreement (GAA), Letter of Recognition (LOR)

Sets out the terms and conditions under which Western Sydney University will recognise a sub-degree, foundation, diploma or postgraduate qualifying program completed by a student at the partner institution for entry into the first year of a Western Sydney University degree (without credit or advanced standing).

Student Exchange Agreement (SEA)

Provides for the reciprocal exchange of students between Western Sydney University and a partner institution.  Students receive credits for the study undertaken at the host institution.  The partners agree to exchange an equal number of students each year.

Study Abroad Agreement (SAA)

Documents an arrangement between the University and a partner to allow students from either institution to undertake a period of study at the other.  Study abroad can cover study for 1 or 2 semesters but can also cover study tours (usually between 2-4 weeks).  There is no limit or restriction on the number of students undertaking study abroad or study tours at either partner.

Staff/Faculty Exchange Agreement (SFEA)

Sets out the terms and conditions under which academic and professional staff of the University and a partner can undertake a set period of time at the other institution to undertake research, teaching or other agreed activities or projects.

Cotutelle Agreement (CA), Joint Award Agreement (JAA), Dual Award Agreement (DAA)

Documents the terms and conditions between Western Sydney University and a partner on supervision of a student undertaking a doctoral degree. Depending on the requirements of each partner and home country regulations, a student may receive a Western Sydney University award, or one from both institutions.

Research Agreement (RA), Joint Institute Agreement (JIA)

Enables a specific identified research activity to be undertaken between Western Sydney University and one or more partners.  The agreement would specify required research elements and the terms and conditions under which they are to be implemented or finalised.

Short Program Delivery Agreement (SPDA)

Sets out the terms and conditions for Western Sydney University to deliver a bespoke short program, as requested by a partner or client under a fee-for-service arrangement.  Shot programs are non-award courses of participation and are non- credit bearing.  Short programs can be for a period of 1 day up to a maximum of 12 weeks and are delivered on campus at the University.

Other

For all other types of agreements not listed above, please contact Jie Xu, Contracts Coordinator, International Partnerships on internationalpartnerships@westernsydney.edu.au.