Update of NIH Late Application Submission Policy and End of Continuous Submission

About this archived opportunity

This Notice announces an updated policy for late submission of competitive applications. Specifically, it ends Continuous Submission, announces modifications to reasons considered for late submission, and announces the prohibition of Fellowship, Small Business, and International Collaboration late applications. When appropriate, we may issue separate guidance in the NIH Guide to provide details on any application submission leniency related to public health emergencies declared by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), natural disasters, or a lapse in federal appropriations. NIH greatly appreciates the time and service of those who serve on our review and advisory groups. We intended the continuous submission policy to allow applications with PD/PIs providing review service to be submitted at any time. In practice, the Council assignment deadline became a de facto due date - sometimes as much as nine weeks after the submission deadline. The submission delays have led to inefficiencies in application referral and peer review. As a result, we are ending the Continuous Submission Policy and updating the Late Application Submission Policy to designate participation in a recent review or advisory group meeting as an acceptable reason for late submission. We will accept Continuous Submission applications through August 10, 2026 (the end of the continuous submission receipt period for the June/July standard due dates) for assignment to January 2027 Council. The updated Late Application Submission Policy is effective for applications submitted for due dates on or after May 25, 2026. NIH only accepts late applications in limited situations and considers each late application for acceptance on a case-by-case basis. Decisions are based on the cover letter explanation, the funding opportunity, and the completed submission date. To be considered under the late policy, you must submit your application within two calendar weeks of the original due date, even if there i