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National Science Foundation

Overview

The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports fundamental research and education across science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and select social sciences. NSF emphasizes intellectual merit and broader impacts, including student training, workforce development, and societal benefit.

 

What NSF Funds

  • Fundamental and applied research

  • Education and training initiatives

  • Instrumentation and infrastructure

  • CAREER awards for early-career faculty

  • Interdisciplinary and convergent research

Typical Size Award and Duration:

  • Varies by program; commonly $200K–$600K over 2–5 years

 

Proposal Requirements & Templates

15 pages most programs

Budget & Budget Justification

SciENcv Format Required)

Current and Pending (SciENcv)

Data Management Plan

Facilities, Equipment & Other Resources

Review & Award Process

 

  • Merit review by external peer reviewers

  • Two criteria: Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts

  • Awards are typically announced 6–9 months after submission

 

 

HELPFUL RESOURCEs

 

  • NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG)

 

OPEN FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES