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Description
The NIH Biographical Sketch Supplement collects three required NIH specific data elements (i.e., Personal Statement, Contributions to Science, and Honors) in accordance with NIH’s Peer Review Regulations at 42 Code of Federal Regulations Part 52h. This information is used to assess qualifications and documents an individual's qualifications and experience for a specific role in a project.
The leniency period previously communicated in NOT-OD-26-033 ends May 7, 2026, the final AIDS standard receipt date for Cycle 1. Use of the Common Forms for Biographical Sketch, Current and Pending (Other) Support, and NIH Biographical Sketch Supplement is required and system-enforced for all application due dates and Just-In-Time (JIT), Research Performance Progress Report (RPPR), and Prior Approval submissions on or after May 8, 2026 (NOT-OD-26-079).
On May 8, 2026, system warnings will change to errors that will stop any submission not using compliant Common Forms.
How to Access
SciENcv must be used to prepare the form.
- Provide NIH Biographical Sketch Supplement information in the second section of the NIH Biographical Sketch Common Form interface. You complete both forms through one user interface.
- Download the completed PDF forms from SciENcv, then attach the forms to your applications and progress reports.
- Find additional tips about SciENcv in NOT-OD-26-018.
Instructions
Instructions for Biographical Sketch Supplement (PDF, 217 KB)
Additional Information
- Common Forms for Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Reminder: Applicants are required to have an ORCID ID and link it with their eRA Commons profiles.
Related Guide Notices
- NOT-OD-26-079: Announcement of Upcoming System Enforcement of Common Forms and End of NIH’s Leniency Period
- NOT-OD-26-033: Adjusted Timeline for NIH’s Implementation of Common Forms
- NOT-OD-26-018: NIH’s Implementation of Common Forms for Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support for Due Dates on or after January 25, 2026
- NOT-OD-25-152: Preview of NIH Common Forms for Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support Coming Soon in SciENcv
- NOT-OD-25-133: NIH Announces a New Policy Requirement to Train Senior/Key Personnel on Other Support Disclosure Requirements