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2026
So, I’m Interested in a Highlighted Topic…What Do I Do Now?
In short, Highlighted Topics are a way to understand NIH priorities and start a conversation. it is important to note though that NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs) continue to fund a wide range of high-quality research beyond areas identified as a Highlighted Topic.
What Should I Know About the Current and Pending (Other) Support (CPOS) Common Form?
The CPOS Common Form must be used for all NIH grant applications, Just in Time (JIT), Research Performance Progress Report (RPPR), and Prior Approval submissions to NIH with due dates on or after January 25, 2026.
What Should I Know About the New Biographical Sketch Common Form?
The Biographical Sketch Common Form must be used for all NIH grant application, Just-in-Time, Research Performance Progress Report (RPPR), and Prior Approval submissions to NIH with due dates on or after January 25, 2026.
Will My Application Be Withdrawn if I Don’t Use the Common Forms?
NIH has extended the leniency period for using the new Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support (CPOS) Common Forms through May 2026.
Make a Perfect Pair with NIH Matchmaker
Our Matchmaker tool in RePORTER can help you determine which institute or center may be interested in your idea, which NIH program official you may want to contact, and which study section you might suggest for application review.
Check Out the Latest How to Apply – Application Guide
NIH updated the How to Apply – Application Guide in December 2025 to reflect recent policy and procedure updates. Find details on all of the major changes and revisions since the last major release at Significant Changes.
2025
What if I Forgot to Include a Required Attachment of an Application?
NIH will contact the applicant in certain, limited situations if required attachments of an application were not submitted on time.
New Tool to Explore NIH Grant Opportunities
Familiarize yourself with the new Explore NIH Grant Opportunities tool. Use its NIH-specific filters, sort, and advanced search options to help you quickly identify funding opportunities posted on Grants.gov.
Introducing Highlighted Topics: A Centralized and Simple Resource to Learn About Research Areas of Interest to NIH
We are excited to announce a new centralized and simplified web resource that informs the research community about particular areas of science of interest to NIH. Visiting this resource early and often when conceptualizing your research ideas will help ensure you are aware of some of NIH’s latest scientific interests.
Explore a Typical NIH Funding Opportunity
The first step to NIH funding is closely reading your funding opportunity, which contains important information about eligibility, application submission, and review.