A revised version of the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide(PAPPG), (NSF 13-1) has been issued.  The revision consists of clarifications and revised guidelines and procedures that have been reviewed and approved by NSF senior management. 

The new PAPPG will be effective for proposals submitted, or due, on or after January 14, 2013.  Significant changes include: 

• Revisions to the merit review criteria, including changes affecting the project summary, project description and annual and final reports;
• Revision of the Biographical Sketch(es) instructions to rename the “Publications” section to “Products” and amend terminology and instructions accordingly;
• Clarification on indirect costs;
• Modification of Facilities, Equipment and Other Resources section of proposals;
• Additional proposal certifications required; and
• Numerous clarifications throughout the document. 

A by-chapter summary of the changes is provided at the beginning of both the Grant Proposal Guide and the Award & Administration Guide to assist with identifying the changes.  

This purposeful communication is intended to ensure a broad understanding of the revisions to the merit review criteria and provide easy access to supporting materials including: 

• A revised NSF Merit Review website with updated information about the revisions;
• A resource website for the external proposer community containing presentations, fact sheets and other important links; and
• Webcasts on the revisions targeted for NSF staff and the proposer community. 

If you have any questions regarding these changes, please contact the DIAS/Policy Office by e-mail to policy@nsf.gov. 

Jean Feldman

Head, Policy Office

Division of Institution and Award Support

Office of Budget, Finance & Award Management