Setting up a New MoU: Quick Guide
If you are considering establishing a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a partner institution, this guide provides an overview of the key steps involved.
It is intended as a quick reference for Faculty members. For full details of the requirements, approval process and responsibilities, please refer to the full MoU Process Paper, approved by the Law Board in July 2025.
| Step | What to do | Who to involve |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The idea | Check if the proposed partner and collaboration align with Faculty External Relations priorities. Inform ADeR early. | ADeR & ERO |
| 2. Early discussion (if needed) | For proposals involving teaching, structured student/staff exchanges, or additional resources (e.g. funding, staff time or new commitments), the proposer should seek early input from Centre Management Committee or PRC. | Centre Management Committee or PRC |
| 3. Drafting | Fast track: Use the University-approved template (or include all required protections) → Can proceed without additional legal consultation If the template is changed: (e.g. partner’s template, changes to governing law or legal clauses) → Discuss internally first (e.g. PRC); seek further advice from central university teams if not resolved internally | Academic lead for consultation & ERO |
| 4. Resources | If funding, staff time or teaching commitments are involved, the proposer should contact HAF to obtain and complete a Resource Request Form. | Centre Management Committee or PRC |
| 5. Approval | - With resources → Centre MC or PRC → Law Board - No resources → Law Board | Law Board |
| 6. Signature | MoU signed | Dean / ADeR |
| 7. After signing | Send final signed MoU to ERO for record-keeping and central reporting. | ERO |
Useful Templates and Resources
- University-approved MoU Template: Download the template (Oxford SSO required).
- Resource Request Form: If your proposed MoU involves funding, staff time or teaching commitments, please contact the Head of Administration and Finance (HAF), who will provide the form.