Studentship Agreement Template for United States

A Studentship Agreement spells out the terms between a student researcher and their academic institution during funded graduate studies or research work. It covers key details like stipend payments, research responsibilities, intellectual property rights, and academic requirements that both sides must follow.

These agreements protect everyone involved by setting clear expectations about publication rights, confidentiality rules, and what happens if the student leaves early. Many U.S. universities require them for PhD candidates and research assistants, especially when federal grants or industry partnerships are funding the work.

Use a Studentship Agreement when bringing graduate students into funded research projects, especially for PhD programs or grant-funded work. This agreement becomes essential once you've selected candidates for research assistantships, teaching fellowships, or specialized academic positions that include financial support.

The timing matters most when federal grants, industry partnerships, or institutional funding are involved. Put the agreement in place before the student begins their work or receives any payments. Universities need this documentation to protect intellectual property rights, ensure compliance with grant requirements, and maintain clear records for academic and financial audits.

• Basic Research Studentship: Covers standard PhD or master's research positions with straightforward funding and basic intellectual property terms
• Industry-Sponsored Agreement: Includes additional confidentiality and IP clauses for corporate-funded research projects
• Federal Grant Studentship: Contains specific compliance requirements for government-funded research programs
• Teaching Fellowship Agreement: Focuses on classroom responsibilities and educational duties alongside research work
• Joint Institution Agreement: Used when students work across multiple universities or research facilities

• Graduate Students: Sign the agreement as the primary party, agreeing to research duties and academic requirements in exchange for funding
• University Legal Departments: Draft and review agreements to protect institutional interests and ensure compliance
• Faculty Advisors: Review terms and oversee student compliance with research obligations
• Grant Administrators: Ensure agreements align with funding requirements and institutional policies
• Research Partners: Include corporate sponsors or other institutions who may have rights to research outcomes

• Funding Details: Collect information about stipend amounts, payment schedules, and funding source requirements
• Research Scope: Define specific research responsibilities, project timelines, and expected deliverables
• Academic Requirements: List degree program details, required coursework, and minimum academic standing
• IP Guidelines: Clarify ownership rights for research outputs, publications, and inventions
• Department Approvals: Gather signatures from faculty advisor, department chair, and grant administrators
• Compliance Check: Review university policies and grant requirements to ensure agreement alignment

• Parties and Roles: Full legal names of student, institution, and any funding partners
• Financial Terms: Stipend amount, payment schedule, and conditions for continued funding
• Academic Obligations: Research duties, progress requirements, and performance standards
• Duration and Termination: Agreement length, renewal terms, and conditions for early termination
• Intellectual Property: Rights to research outputs, publications, and inventions
• Confidentiality: Protection of sensitive research data and institutional information
• Governing Law: Applicable state jurisdiction and dispute resolution procedures

A Studentship Agreement differs significantly from an Advisory Agreement, though both involve academic relationships. While Studentship Agreements govern funded graduate research positions, Advisory Agreements establish professional guidance relationships without the same academic or research obligations.

• Financial Structure: Studentship Agreements include stipends and research funding, while Advisory Agreements typically involve consulting fees or honoraria
• Duration and Commitment: Studentships run for extended academic periods (often years) with specific milestones, whereas Advisory roles are usually shorter-term with flexible scheduling
• Intellectual Property Rights: Studentships include detailed research ownership provisions and publication rights, while Advisory Agreements focus on protecting confidential information shared during consultations
• Institutional Oversight: Studentships require academic performance monitoring and departmental supervision; Advisory relationships maintain more professional independence