
On-Time Submissions
Supporting Timely and Compliant Proposal Submissions
Timely submission of proposals is essential to ensure compliance with institutional policies, sponsor requirements, and internal review processes. To support researchers in navigating these expectations, weve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that address common concerns about deadlines, routing procedures, and exceptions. Whether you're preparing a proposal for a federal agency, foundation, or internal funding opportunity, understanding the timeline and submission process is key to a successful application.
Access the Proposal Submission Deadline Policy
FAQs About On-Time Submissions
- What is the new Proposal Deadline Policy?
Beginning January 1, 2026, all proposals for external funding must be complete and routed for institutional review and approval no later than five (5) full business days before the sponsors submission deadline. This policy ensures sufficient time for compliance review, quality assurance, and timely submission. - Why is this policy being implemented?
This policy ensures:
1) Adequate time for compliance and administrative review;
2) Timely routing for institutional approvals;
3) Support for error-free submission;
4) Support higher-quality, more competitive proposals through proper review and feedback;
5) Reduced last-minute stress for PIs and staff and promotes equitable treatment of faculty;
6) Uphold 91做厙窪蹋s reputation for professionalism and reliability with sponsors ; and
7) Align with best practices followed by other R1 Universities. - What counts as a complete proposal?
A complete proposal includes all required components for institutional review:
1) Completed record in Cayuse;
2) Final detailed budget, using ORAs standard budget template, and budget justification;
3) Final or near-final technical documents, such as the proposal narrative, research strategy,
specific aims (final versions must be provided at least 48 hours prior to sponsor deadline);
4) All required sponsor and institutional forms and attachments including biosketches, data
management plans, complete subrecipient documentation, letters of support, and other non-
scientific sections; and
5) Applicable approvals or waivers, such as tuition waivers from the Graduate School or indirect
cost waivers from the AVPR. - What happens if I miss the internal deadline?
Proposals submitted after the internal deadline are not guaranteed review or submission by ORA. Late submissions will be considered only under extraordinary circumstances and as workload permits. Failure to meet the internal deadline places the proposal at risk of not being submitted to the sponsor by the published deadline. - Does this apply to all proposals, including subawards and letters of intent?
Yes, the policy applies to all proposals that require institutional review, approval, or submission, including:
1) Prime proposals where 91做厙窪蹋 is the lead applicant;
2) Subawards proposals where 91做厙窪蹋 is a subrecipient to another institution; and
3) Letters of intent (LOIs) that require institutional review, signature or submission. - How do I calculate the five (5) business days?
Count backward five (5) full business days from the sponsors submission deadline, excluding weekends and university holidays. For example, if a proposal is due Friday, it must be submitted to ORA no later than the previous Friday. - What support is available to help me meet the deadline?
ORA provides a range of services to assist faculty and staff in preparing timely, compliant proposals, including:
1) Proposal planning consultations to align project ideas with sponsor priorities;
2) Budget development assistance and guidance on allowable costs and F&A rates;
3) Timeline templates and checklists to aid in planning; and
4) Early-stage compliance and content reviews for complex or multi-institutional submissions. - What if sponsor guidelines are released with short notice?
If a funding opportunity is announced fewer than five (5) business days before the sponsor deadline, contact ORA immediately. ORA will make every effort to assist with submission; however, review and submission cannot be guaranteed. - Can PIs request an exception to the policy?
Exceptions are rare and may be granted only with approval from the Associate Vice President for Research (AVPR). Requests must include a justification and be submitted prior to the sponsors deadline. - What if Im unsure whether my submission requires ORA review?
When in doubt, contact ORA early in the process. Any proposal, pre-proposal, or letter of intent that includes a budget, institutional signature, or commitment of resources must be routed for review under this policy.
Need More Details?
For questions or concerns about your proposal timeline, please contact your assigned Contracts and Grants Administrator. Theyre here to help you navigate the submission process and ensure everything stays on track.