Will My Application Be Withdrawn if I Don’t Use the Common Forms?

NIH has extended the leniency period for using the new Biographical Sketch and Current and Pending (Other) Support (CPOS) Common Forms through May 2026, as reported in NOT-OD-26-033.  

During this leniency period: 

  • You may submit applications using the existing NIH Biosketch and Other Support format pages without penalty.
  • Submission systems will generate warnings—not errors—when Common Forms aren’t used. 

This extension is designed to give you and your institution more time to adjust as SciENcv continues system updates and agencies refine supporting guidance. While you aren’t required to switch immediately, beginning the transition now to the Common Forms will help ensure you’re fully prepared once the leniency period ends. 

Additional Resources 

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In short, Highlighted Topics are a way to understand NIH priorities and start a conversation. it is important to note though that NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices (ICOs) continue to fund a wide range of high-quality research beyond areas identified as a Highlighted Topic.

Tips Before You Submit

What Should I Know About the Current and Pending (Other) Support (CPOS) Common Form?

The CPOS Common Form must be used for all NIH grant applications, Just in Time (JIT), Research Performance Progress Report (RPPR), and Prior Approval submissions to NIH with due dates on or after January 25, 2026.

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