NIH strictly enforces application formatting requirements. For applications that do not adhere to format specifications, application processing may be delayed or the application may be returned to the applicant without review.

Application format specifications include font and font size, margins, and other formatting requirements. 

Each Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) will provide information on whether an application must be submitted electronically or must be submitted using paper. Applicants can determine whether electronic or paper submission is required by examining the relevant FOA under “Section IV. Application and Submission Information section -- 2. Content and Form of Application Submission”.

Applicants must follow the instructions in either

• Application Guide SF424 (R&R) for electronic submission or
• PHS 398 for paper submission

Page limits can vary for different FOAs. Find page limits in the Grant Application Guide for your Grant Application Package. Beginning in January 2010, page limits for applications will be reduced, so pay particular attention to the most recent application instructions as well as the FOA.

When FOAs allow the submission of paper applications, the application must use standard U.S. paper size of 8.5 inches x 11 inches (21.59 cm x 27.94 cm).

Applications to the NIH must be submitted in English.

All text must be in a black font color, clear and legible.

Note: For help accessing PDF, RTF, MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, RealPlayer, Video or Flash files, see Help Downloading Files.