An Erasmus Bilateral Agreement (EBA) is a formal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a cooperation between two higher education institutions within the Erasmus+ program. It serves as a legal framework for the exchange of students and staff between the participating institutions.
To create a professional EBA template, consider the following design elements:
Layout and Structure
Clear and Consistent Formatting: Use a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) and consistent font size throughout the template. Ensure proper spacing between lines and paragraphs to enhance readability.
Logical Organization: Arrange the content in a logical sequence, such as:
Header: Include the names of the participating institutions, the agreement’s title, and the date.
Recitals: State the purpose and scope of the agreement.
Clauses: Define specific terms and conditions, such as eligibility criteria, duration of exchange, academic recognition, financial arrangements, and dispute resolution.
Signatures: Provide space for authorized representatives from both institutions to sign the agreement.
Numbering and Headings: Use clear numbering and headings to structure the document and make it easier to navigate.
Content and Language
Legal Precision: Use precise and unambiguous language to avoid misunderstandings. Consult legal experts if necessary.
Clarity and Conciseness: Express ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding unnecessary jargon or technical terms.
Consistency: Ensure that the language and style are consistent throughout the template.
Inclusivity: Use inclusive language that avoids discrimination or bias.
Design Elements
Professional Appearance: Choose a clean and professional layout that reflects the seriousness of the agreement.
Branding: Incorporate the branding elements of both participating institutions, such as logos and colors.
White Space: Use white space effectively to create a visually appealing and easy-to-read document.
Alignment: Align the text consistently (e.g., left-aligned) to improve readability.
Headings and Subheadings: Use headings and subheadings to break up the text and highlight important information.
Eligibility Criteria: Define the eligibility requirements for students and staff participating in the exchange.
Duration of Exchange: Specify the minimum and maximum duration of the exchange.
Academic Recognition: Outline the procedures for recognizing academic credits earned by students during the exchange.
Financial Arrangements: Address the financial aspects of the exchange, including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Intellectual Property: Clarify the ownership and use of intellectual property created during the exchange.
Dispute Resolution: Establish a mechanism for resolving disputes that may arise between the participating institutions.
Additional Considerations
Review and Approval: Ensure that the EBA is reviewed and approved by the appropriate authorities at both institutions.
Translation: If necessary, have the EBA translated into the languages of the participating institutions.
Updates: Periodically review and update the EBA to reflect changes in the Erasmus+ program or the needs of the participating institutions.
By carefully considering these design elements and incorporating the necessary clauses, you can create a professional and effective Erasmus Bilateral Agreement template that serves as a solid foundation for your institution’s international collaborations.