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Submitting Your Proposal

Research funded by external sponsors typically falls into one of two categories.                    
  • Category I      
    • For many research applications, the sponsor requires that the proposed research be submitted by the researcher via Vanderbilt on behalf of the researcher. 
  • Category II     
    • Alternatively, a sponsor might specify that a research application may only be submitted by an individual person , not the University.  
For help determining which category applies, please reference the application directions on the sponsor's web site.  
Departmental pre-award administrators and A&S Sponsored Research staff are available to assist as well.

Vanderbilt's procedure for submitting research proposals to external sponsors depends upon the proposal category:

Submitting a proposal via Vanderbilt

Three weeks prior to the sponsor's due date: Click here to fill-out and route your notice of intent to submit a proposal to your department pre-award administrator.

Two weeks prior to the sponsor's due date: Deliver your draft budget data and draft abstract (one-page scope of work) to your department pre-award administrator.

One week prior to the sponsor's due date Confirm your final budget with your departmental pre-award administrator; and, your department routes the budget for internal approvals at Vanderbilt.

Two business days prior to the sponsor's due date: Provide all final documents for your proposal; and, release your proposal for submission.

Vanderbilt Sponsored Programs Administration reviews and approves your proposal for submission.

 

Submitting a proposal from an individual

Applications from individuals for external funding must follow the submission directions provided on the sponsor's web site. 

Be sure to read the directions carefully,  adhere to all format and length guidance, and follow the directions for the submission of letters of recommendation. 

To avoid gllitches with portals, do not submit your  materials at the last minute.  In many cases, if you submit a late or incomplete proposal, it may be withdrawn from consideration by the sponsor.

Resources to help you prepare your proposal