April 7, 2026
The NIH has released Notice NOT-OD-26-064, which introduces updated timelines for late submission eligibility and announces the end of Continuous Submission.
End of Continuous Submission
Applications submitted under Continuous Submission will be accepted only through August 10, 2026 (the end of the continuous submission receipt period for the June/July standard due dates). This will be the final opportunity for assignment to the January 2027 Council.
Updated Late Application Submission Policy (Effective May 25, 2026)
NIH will accept late applications only in limited circumstances and will evaluate each submission on a case-by-case basis. Decisions will consider the justification provided in the cover letter, the funding opportunity, and the actual submission date.
Late applications must be submitted within two calendar weeks of the original due date. If the due date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the late window will be calculated from the next business day.
Beginning May 25, late applications will be accepted only under the following conditions:
- One or more PD/PIs listed on the application experienced extenuating circumstances that caused the missed deadline.
- The extenuating circumstances are clearly documented in the cover letter submitted in the application.
- The application responds to a program that explicitly allows late submissions.
- A PD/PI or MPI named on the application participated in an NIH peer review study section or special emphasis panel within four weeks before or after the due date.
- A PD/PI or MPI named on the application participated in an NIH Board of Scientific Counselors, Program Advisory Committee, or NIH Advisory Board or Council.
Late applications are not accepted for:
- Fellowship applications (e.g., F30, F31, F32, F33, F99/K00) and Small Business applications (e.g., R41, R42, R43, R44, SB1, UT1, U44)
- Collaborative International Research applications (e.g., PF5, UF5)
- Any funding opportunity that explicitly states in the Key Dates section that late applications will not be accepted
Submitting a Late Application & Cover Letter
If a late application is submitted, the Cover Letter (attached to the SF424 R&R form) must clearly:
- Explain the reason for the delay or
- Identify the qualifying NIH review service and the date it occurred
While delays may involve personal circumstances, the explanation must include specific details about the timing and cause to allow for an informed and objective review.
For example, in cases of sudden, acute illness, the applicant should describe the onset, timing, and severity of the condition.
Internal Submission Requirements Reminder
- Draft proposals - including all administrative components, a final budget and budget justification (including subawards) - must be submitted to OSRA at least 7 business days prior to the sponsor deadline for review.
- The finalized application must be routed to OSRA for review and submission at least 2 business days prior to the sponsor deadline.
For questions, contact your assigned OSRA Grants Specialist or email grantsandcontracts@med.cornell.edu.