Memoranda of Understanding

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) sets out the intention to cooperate and show mutual respect. An MoU sets out the parties’ shared understanding of the proposed cooperation.

Memoranda of Understanding are not legally binding. Specific agreements must be drawn up for projects listed in the MoU once the MoU has been concluded.

If all parties are keen to implement their projects as quickly as possible, contracts may be negotiated without a prior MoU. However, hybrid forms – that is, MoUs with contractual characteristics – are not permitted at UniBE.

UniBE International, or – depending on the content – the Legal Service and Unitectra, are responsible for negotiating MoUs. If you wish to conclude an MoU, you will find further information below.

All existing agreements can be found here.

Procedure for concluding a Memorandum of Understanding

We recommend that MoU proposals are first submitted to the Dean’s Office. The Dean’s Offices review the proposal and hold a copy of the official UniBE template. The template is then forwarded to the relevant central office for review. UniBE International provides support with the drafting and negotiation of MoUs.

MoUs can be concluded at department level, faculty level or university-wide. This depends on whether university stakeholders from across departments or faculties are interested in the proposed international collaboration. It is advisable to remain closely aligned with the concerns of those interested and involved, i.e. to choose the smallest possible scope (e.g. department level).

All MoUs are signed by the Rector. In the case of MoUs at department level, the head of department also signs; at faculty level, the Dean signs.

Content: Is student exchange involving semester-long mobility and attendance at courses planned? In such cases, UniBE International must be involved. If the collaboration is purely research-based, the Legal Service and Unitectra are responsible.

You will receive scans of the MoUs for your internal records. The originals are filed with UniBE International.