51±¬ÁÏ

An MOA is a binding, legal contract formalizing the terms of collaboration between KSU and one or more partner institutions. This forms the base of the relationship and outlines standard terms. Typically, agreements are valid for five years unless otherwise specified in the agreement. The amendments are valid for five years or until the expiration of the original MOA, whichever comes first.

An MOA should be considered when a new initiative or program is under development with a prospective partner university or institution. This may include (but is not limited to): 

(a) the exchange of students from each institution for traditional student exchange programs; 
(b) the exchange of academic personnel for teaching, research, or both; 
(c) the organization of joint seminars and conferences; 
(d) the hosting of visiting faculty from the partner institution; 
(e) the exchange of academic program materials; 
(f) the development of joint research and publications; 
(g) study abroad of students between institutions; and 
(h) development of special degree completion programs.

Please view the list of current partner universities and institutions. Contact the International Partnerships division for more information on archived, terminated, expired, and pending partnerships.

The first step is to complete the International Partnerships Application Form. The Partnership Application form compiles all of the information necessary to initiate and maintain a partnership. The International Partnerships Division will review the application and contact you about the next steps. Please contact partnerships@kent.edu to receive the Application Form.

The International Partnerships Division maintains all of the records related to the MOA and any amendments. We will draft the agreement or review a draft presented by the prospective partner, negotiate any changes in the terms, coordinate with General Counsel, and finalize the signing process. The originator of the agreement from KSU will be involved every step of the way.

Although this is not typically a problem, most changes can be accommodated or mutual agreement can be found. The International Partnerships Division will coordinate with KSU General Counsel to manage these on a case-by-case basis.

We can accept translated versions of the MOA and amendments. It is the responsibility of the prospective partner to provide the translation after all of the terms of the agreement(s) have been agreed to by both parties. The International Partnerships Division will have the translation back translated and reviewed to ensure both versions are consistent before signing.

Amendments are required when a specific program or initiative is developed that goes beyond the scope of the original MOA. Amendments allow for each party to outline expectations and clarify requirements. This is an important step in ensuring that the program is successful. Examples of amendments are: Exchange and Visiting Student/Faculty program, 3+2 programs, and specialized study abroad programs.

In most cases the faculty member, department/school, or college is responsible for administering the initiatives identified in the MOA and the amendments. The Education Abroad Division of OGE will assist with the administration of student exchange and short-term study abroad programs.

The International Partnerships Division will be the main point of contact for information about the agreements including initiation of the renewal process. New partners will be added to the e-mailing list that receives regularly published newsletters from the International Partnerships Division.  Partner universities will also receive regular communication about special programs at KSU such as ESL, summer programs, New International Student Orientation, etc.

Only the President and Provost of 51±¬ÁÏ have the authority to formalize relationships with foreign universities and/or institutions of higher education on behalf of 51±¬ÁÏ. Faculty members may not engage in a binding relationship with a foreign entity unless in accordance with the agreement.