Learn Standard Proposal Components
The structure and required elements of a proposal vary by sponsor. Most sponsors provide detailed submission policies and require the use of specific application forms or electronic submission systems. Others may have more flexible formatting expectations.
Principal Investigators should always obtain and follow the sponsor's most current application guidelines to ensure the proposal meets all requirements.
Notes on Preliminary Proposals/White Papers
A preliminary proposal or white paper is typically an expanded abstract. It usually does not require a detailed budget or a full set of assurances included in the submission, although some sponsors may request an estimated budget. Certifications are normally not required at this stage
Components of NSF Proposals
Most National Science Foundation (NSF) proposals require the following components:
- Cover Sheet
- Project Summary
- Project Description
- References Cited
- Biographical Sketch(es)
- Budget & Budget Justification
- Current and Pending Support
- Data Management Plan
- Facilities
- Supplementary Documents
For specific instructions, refer to Templates & Tools.
NSF Collaborative Research Proposals
Collaborative proposals involve investigators at two or more organizations working together on a unified project. NSF allows two submission methods:
- Single Proposal:
One lead organization submits the full proposal and includes subawards for collaborating institutions. - Simultaneous Submission:
Each participating organization submits its own proposal, and each requests a separate award.
For more guidance, see NSF Collaborative Proposals.
Components of an NIH proposal
Most National Institutes of Health (NIH) proposals include:
- Project Summary/Abstract
- Project Narrative
- Bibliography & References Cited
- Facilities & Other Resources
- Equipment
- Biographical Sketch(es)
- Personnel Justification
- Budget & Budget Justification
- Specific Aims
- Research Strategy
- Letters of Support
For specific instructions, refer to Templates & Tools.
NIH Consortium Agreements
NIH uses a consortium agreement when the primary grantee collaborates with one or more institutions to complete project activities. The grantee institution is the direct and primary recipient of NIH funds and remains accountable for:
- Scientific and programmatic performance
- Proper expenditure of funds by all parties
- Required reporting
- Compliance with all NIH obligations
Under a consortium agreement:
- The award is issued to a single grantee with a single PD/PI (or contact PD/PI for multi-PI applications).
- The prime grantee must play a substantive scientific role, not simply pass funds to collaborators.
- Proposed collaborations must be described in the application. Additional or alternative collaborations during the award period may require prior approval if they constitute a change in scope.
If your proposal involves a consortium or subaward, please consult the information on obtaining subrecipient documentation.
