**U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION**

Office of Postsecondary Education

Washington, DC 20006-8510

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height="3.6458333333333335in"}

**Fiscal Year 2008**

**APPLICATION FOR GRANTS**

**UNDER THE**

**BUSINESS AND INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION (BIE) Program**

**(CFDA NUMBER: 84.153A)**

**Form Approved**

**OMB No. 1840 - NEW, Exp. Date: XX/XX/20XX**

**CLOSING DATE: TBA**

#### 

####  Application for new awards under the 

#### Business and International Education (BIE) Program Table of Contents

Page

**[PROGRAM SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS AND FORMS]{.underline}**

**Dear Applicant Letter** 4

**Competition Highlights** 6

**Supplemental Information** 8

::: Definition-Term
**Federal Register Notice Inviting Applications for**
:::

::: Definition-Term
**New Awards for Fiscal Year (FY) 2008** 11
:::

**Authorizing Legislation** 32

**Code of Federal Regulations** 37

**Section 611 & 613** 40

**Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) and**

**Performance Indicator for the BIE Program** 43

**Instructions for Completing the BIE Application Package** 44

**Instructions for Program Narrative** 45

**Instructions for Budget Summary Form & Itemized Line Item Budget** 47

**Application Checklist** 49

**Burden Statement** 50

Dear Applicant:

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant under the Business
and International Education (BIE) program. The BIE program provides
grants to institutions of higher education that enter into an agreement
with a trade association to improve the academic teaching of the
business curriculum and to conduct outreach activities that will assist
the local business community to compete in the global arena.

In the FY 2008 competition, there is one competitive preference priority
and two invitational priorities for this program. The U.S. Department of
Education (Department) strongly encourages all applicants to give
consideration to these priorities. For additional information about the
invitational preference priority and the two invitational priorities,
refer to the [Federal Register]{.underline} notice inviting applications
for new awards for FY 2008.

This letter highlights a few items in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2008
application package that will be important to you in applying for grants
under this program. You should review the entire application package
carefully before preparing and submitting your application. Information
on the BIE Program is accessible at the U.S. Department of Education
(Department) Web site at:

<http://www.ed.gov/programs/iegpsbie/index.html>

Please be sure to thoroughly review the entire application booklet for
information concerning the BIE Program. Applicants should pay particular
attention to the section entitled "Competition Highlights" that outlines
invitational and competitive priorities as well as other program and
competition details.

The Department of Education is requiring that applications for FY 2008
grants under the BIE Program be submitted electronically using
Grants.gov. You are urged to acquaint yourself with the requirements of
Grants.gov early. A more thorough discussion is included in the
application package. Grants.gov is accessible through its portal page
at:

[http://www.grants.gov](http://www.grants.gov/)

We also urge you to consider the following three extremely important
administrative factors if you are planning to apply for this program:

1.  We strongly encourage you to register in Grants.gov early. The
    registration procedures may require 5 or more days to complete.

2.  We strongly recommend that you [submit your application 2-3 days
    prior to the closing date]{.underline}. The time it takes to upload
    an application will vary depending on your application and the speed
    of your Internet connection. The application submission process must
    be complete prior to the deadline for transmittal of applications.

3.  In order to submit successfully, you must remember to provide the
    DUNS number on your application that was used when your organization
    registered with the CCR (Central Contractor Registry).

After you electronically submit your application, [you will first
receive an e-mail from Grants.gov]{.underline} acknowledging the date
and time at which your application was received. You will receive a
[second e-mail from Grants.gov]{.underline} that will state that your
application has been validated OR that your application was rejected
with errors. If your application is validated, you will [receive a third
e-mail]{.underline} from the Department of Education with an assigned
PR/Award number, which is an ED-specified identifying number that is
unique to your application**. This third confirmation by e-mail, with a
PR/Award number assigned, is the e-mail that verifies that your
application was submitted on time by the closing date. This may take
several days.**

For information (including dates and times) about how to submit your
application electronically please refer to the official Notice Inviting
Applications for New Awards for FY 2008 published in the
[Federal]{.underline} [Register]{.underline}.

You are reminded that the document published in the [Federal
Register]{.underline} (the Closing Date notice) is the official
document, and that you should not rely upon any information that is
inconsistent with the guidance contained within the official document.

A program officer is available to provide technical assistance if you
have any questions after reviewing the application. Please refer to the
introduction that follows for the names and telephone numbers of the
contact persons.

We look forward to receiving your application and appreciate your
efforts to promote excellence in international education.

> Sincerely,
>
> Thomas C. Dawson III
>
> Deputy Assistant Secretary
>
> Higher Education Programs

#### 2008 Business and International Education 

#### Competition Highlights 

1\. **BIE applications submitted for FY 2008 must be submitted
electronically using Grants.gov**. You are urged to acquaint yourself
with the requirements of Grants.gov early as the [registration
procedures may require five or more days to complete]{.underline}. A
more thorough discussion is included later in this application package.
Grants.gov is accessible through its portal page at:

[**http://www.grants.gov**](http://www.grants.gov/)

2\. It is important to know that the Grants.gov site works differently
than the Department's e-Application system, used in past competitions.

> Grants.gov does not allow applicants to "un-submit" applications.
> Therefore, if you discover that changes or additions are needed once
> your application has been accepted and validated by the Department,
> you must "re-submit" the application. You should know that if the
> Department receives duplicate applications, we will accept and process
> the application with the latest "date/time received" validation.

3\. In the FY 2008 competition, the Department is particularly
interested in applications that meet the following program priorities:

1.  a\. [Competitive Preference Priority]{.underline}**:** An additional
    five competitive preference priority points may be awarded to
    applications from institutions that propose the establishment of
    internships overseas to enable foreign language students to develop
    their foreign language skills and knowledge of foreign cultures and
    societies.

    b.  [Invitational Priorities (2):]{.underline}

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i.  [Invitational Priority I]{.underline}: Applications from
    institutions of higher education that propose projects that include
    activities focused on the countries in which the following critical
    languages are spoken: Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, as
    well as Indic, Iranian, and Turkic language families.

> ii\. [Invitational Priority II:]{.underline} Applications that focus
> on developing, improving and/or disseminating best practices of
> international business training programs, teaching and curriculum
> development to increase American competitiveness.
>
> **Please note that these invitational priorities are explained in
> detail in the Closing Date notice contained in this application
> package. You are urged to fully review the Closing Date notice
> carefully before preparing your application.**
>
> 4\. The project abstract is limited to one page, single-spaced. The
> abstract must be uploaded into the ED abstract form.
>
> 5\. Please note that you must submit your application by 4:30 p.m.
> (Washington, D.C. time) on or before the application deadline date.
> Late applications [will not be accepted]{.underline}. **We suggest
> that you submit your application several days before the deadline.**
> The Department is required to enforce the established deadline to
> ensure fairness to all applicants. No changes or additions to an
> application will be accepted after the deadline date and time.
>
> 6\. Electronic submission of applications is required; therefore, you
> must submit an electronic application unless you follow the procedures
> outlined in the [Federal Register]{.underline} notice inviting
> applications for new awards for FY 2008 and qualify for one of the
> exceptions to the electronic submission requirement.
>
> 7\. All applicants are required to adhere to the 40-page limit for the
> Program Narrative portion of the application. The [Federal
> Register]{.underline} notice contains the specific standards for
> preparing the Program Narrative.
>
> 8\. All attachments must be in .DOC, .RTF, or .PDF format. Other types
> of files will not be accepted.

Please note, once you download an application from Grants.gov, you will
be working offline and saving data on your computer. Please be sure to
note where you are saving the Grants.gov file on your computer. You will
need to logon to Grants.gov to upload and submit the application. (This
is different from e-Application, where you are working online and saving
data to the Department's database.) You must provide the DUNS number
that was used when your organization registered with the Central
Contractor Registry (CCR).

Please go to <http://www.grants.gov/ForApplicants> for help with
Grants.gov. For additional tips related to submitting grant
applications, refer to the procedures and tips for applicants found on
page eight of this application booklet.

You are reminded that the document published in the [Federal
Register]{.underline} is the official document, and that you should not
rely upon any information that is inconsistent with the guidance
contained within the official document.

#### Supplemental Information

**[General Information]{.underline}**

The following information supplements the information provided in the
"Dear Applicant" letter and the [Notice]{.underline}.

**A. Eligible Applicants**

# Institutions of higher education that enter into agreements with business enterprises, trade organizations or associations that are engaged in international economic activity---or a combination of associations---for the purpose of pursuing the activities authorized under this program. 

# 

# B. BIE Program Assurances

> All applicants must comply with the BIE statutory requirements. In
> accordance with the requirements of the statute, each funded project
> shall both enhance the international academic program of the
> institution and provide appropriate assistance to the business
> community, which will expand its capacity to engage in commerce
> abroad.

**C. BIE Agreement**

> The authorizing statute requires that each application be accompanied
> by a copy of the "Agreement\" entered into by the institution of
> higher education with a business enterprise, trade organization or
> association engaged in international economic activity, or a
> combination or consortium of such enterprises, organizations, or
> association, for the purposes of establishing, developing, improving,
> or expanding activities eligible for assistance under Section 613 (b)
> of the statute.
>
> Include copy(ies) of the \"Agreement(s)", including all parties to the
> \"Agreement(s)\" with the Narrative section of the application. The
> content of the\" Agreement(s)\" should provide sufficient detail to
> show how the assistance (e.g. technical or monetary assistance)
> furthers the establishment, improvement or expansion of the eligible
> activities, and should describe the responsibilities incumbent upon
> each party to the "Agreement(s).\"

###### Criteria for Funding

> All applications for grants under the BIE program will be evaluated
> using the selection criteria listed in the program regulations (34 CFR
> 664).

###### Length of New Award

> Applicants may apply for a maximum grant performance period up to
> twenty-four months.

###### Financial Provisions

a.  We will reject any application that proposes a budget exceeding \$
    90,000 for a single budget period of 12 months.

> *Up to 8% indirect costs rate is allowed under this grant.
> Institutions with a higher negotiated indirect cost can not use the
> un-recovered indirect cost as a part of their matching.*

G. Evaluation of Applications for Awards

> A three-member panel of non-federal reviewers reviews each
> application. Each reviewer will prepare a written evaluation of the
> application and assign points for each selection criterion.

# H. Selection of Grantees

> The Secretary will select an application for funding in rank order,
> based on the application's total score for the selection criteria and
> competitive preference priority points. If there are insufficient
> funds to fund all applications with the same total score, the
> Secretary will choose among the tied applications.

# I. Applicant Funding

> The Department is often unable to award the full amount of funds
> requested. Applicants should pay close attention to the "Maximum
> Award" section of the [Notice]{.underline}. The Department will not
> fund any application at an amount exceeding the applicable maximum
> award level.

**J. Notice to Successful Applicants**

> The Department\'s Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs will
> inform the Congress regarding applicants approved for new BIE grants.
> Successful applicants will receive award notices by mail shortly after
> the Congress is notified. No funding information will be released
> before the Congress is notified. Notification generally occurs in the
> month of April.

**K. Notice to Unsuccessful Applicants**

> Unsuccessful applicants will be notified in writing following the
> notice to successful applicants.

L. Performance Reports

> All BIE grantees must submit project performance reports using the
> International Resource Information System (IRIS) electronic reporting
> system. If you wish to view the performance report currently required,
> visit the IEPS Web site at
> <http://www.ed.gov/programs/iegpsbie/performance.html>. Please be
> advised that the report is for informational purposes only, and does
> not reflect the actual reporting instrument that you will use, should
> you receive a FY 2008 grant award. The performance report will assist
> IEPS staff in determining whether or not the BIE project is making
> substantial progress toward meeting the approved project objectives
> and whether or not a continuation award (if applicable) is in the best
> interest of the federal government. Project Directors will be
> responsible for overall project reports as well as entering project
> participant information into the system and ensuring that participants
> complete and submit individual reports.

###  The IRIS reporting instrument includes sections for grantees to input data and information that respond to the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) to assess overall program performance.

### 

### **CONTACT PERSON**

[For program-related questions and assistance]{.underline}, please
contact:

Program Officer: Tanyelle Richardson

Address: International Education Programs Service (IEPS)

U.S. Department of Education

1990 K Street, N.W., 6^th^ Floor, Room 6017

Washington, DC 20006-8521

Telephone: (202) 502-7626

Fax: (202) 502-7859

E-mail Address:
[Tanyelle.Richardson@ed.gov](mailto:tanyelle.Richardson@ed.gov)

[For technical and Grants.gov-related questions and
assistance]{.underline}, please contact:

Grants.gov Support Desk

Telephone: (800)-518-4726

Hours: Monday -- Friday, 7am-9pm EST

4000-01-U

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Office of Postsecondary Education

Overview Information

Business and International Education Program

Notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year

(FY) 2008.

[Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number]{.underline}:
84.153A

[Dates]{.underline}: \[INSERT DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL
REGISTER\]

Applications Available: October 17, 2007.

Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: November 21, 2007.

Deadline for Intergovernmental Review: January 22, 2008.

[Eligible Applicants]{.underline}: Institutions of higher education that
enter into agreements with business enterprises, trade organizations or
associations that are engaged in international economic activity\--or a
combination or consortium of these enterprises, organizations, or
associations\--for the purposes of pursuing the activities authorized
under this program.

[Estimated Available Funds]{.underline}: The Administration has
requested \$2,165,000 for new awards for this program for FY 2008. The
actual level of funding, if any, depends on final congressional action.
However, we are inviting applications to allow enough time to complete
the grant process if Congress appropriates funds for this program.

[Estimated Range of Awards]{.underline}: \$50,000 - \$90,000.

[Estimated Average Size of Awards]{.underline}: \$84,000.

[Maximum Award]{.underline}: We will reject any application that
proposes a budget exceeding \$90,000 for a single budget period of 12
months. The Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education may change
the maximum amount through a notice published in the [Federal
Register]{.underline}.

[Estimated Number of Awards]{.underline}: 26.

[Note]{.underline}: The Department is not bound by any estimates in this
notice.

# Project Period: Up to 24 months.

#### Full Text of Announcement

I. Funding Opportunity Description

[Purpose of Program]{.underline}: The Business and International
Education program provides grants to enhance international business
education programs and to expand the capacity of the business community
to engage in international economic activities.

[Competitive Preference Priority]{.underline}: For FY 2008 this priority
is a competitive preference priority. Under 34 CFR

75.105(c)(2)(i) and 34 CFR 661.32 we award an additional five (5) points
to an application that meets this priority. In accordance with 34 CFR
75.105(b)(2)(ii), this priority is from the regulations for this program
(34 CFR 661.32).

[This priority]{.underline} is:

The establishment of internships overseas to enable foreign language
students to develop their foreign language skills and knowledge of
foreign cultures and societies.

[Invitational Priorities]{.underline}: For FY 2008 these priorities are
invitational priorities. Under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(1) we do not give an
application that meets these invitational priorities a competitive or
absolute preference over other applications.

These priorities are:

[Invitational Priority I]{.underline}:

Applications from institutions of higher education that propose projects
that include activities focused on the countries in which the following
critical languages are spoken: Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean,
Russian as well as Indic, Iranian, and Turkic language families.

[Invitational Priority II]{.underline}:

Applications that focus on developing, improving and/or disseminating
best practices of international business training programs, teaching,
and curriculum development to increase American competitiveness.

[Program Authority]{.underline}: 20 U.S.C. 1130--1130b.

[Applicable Regulations]{.underline}: (a) The Education Department
General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77,
79, 80, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99. (b) The regulations in 34
CFR parts 655 and 661.

[Note]{.underline}: The regulations in 34 CFR part 86 apply to
institutions of higher education only.

II\. Award Information

[Type of Award]{.underline}: Discretionary grants.

[Estimated Available Funds]{.underline}: The Administration has
requested \$4,320,000 for this program for FY 2008. The actual level of
funding, if any, depends on final congressional action. However, we are
inviting applications to allow enough time to complete the grant process
if Congress appropriates funds for this program.

[Estimated Range of Awards]{.underline}: \$50,000 - \$90,000.

[Estimated Average Size of Awards]{.underline}: \$80,000.

[Maximum Award]{.underline}: We will reject any application that
proposes a budget exceeding \$90,000 for a single budget period of 12
months. The Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education may change
the maximum amount through a notice published in the [Federal
Register]{.underline}.

[Estimated Number of Awards]{.underline}: 26.

[Note]{.underline}: The Department is not bound by any estimates in this
notice.

[Project Period]{.underline}: Up to 24 months.

## III. Eligibility Information

1\. [Eligible Applicants]{.underline}: Institutions of higher education
that enter into agreements with business enterprises, trade
organizations or associations that are engaged in international economic
activity\--or a combination or consortium of these enterprises,
organizations, or associations\--for the purposes of pursuing the
activities authorized under this program.

2\. [Cost Sharing or Matching]{.underline}: The matching requirement is
described in section 613(d) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as
amended (20 U.S.C. 1130a) (HEA). The HEA provides that the applicant's
share of the total cost of carrying out a program supported by a grant
under this program must be no less than 50 percent of the total cost of
the project in each fiscal year. The non-Federal share of the cost may
be provided either in-kind or in cash.

IV\. Application and Submission Information

1\. [Address to Request Application Package]{.underline}: Ms. Tanyelle
Richardson, International Education Programs Service, U.S. Department of
Education, 1990 K Street, NW., room 6017, Washington, DC 20006-8521.
Telephone: (202) 502-7626 or by e-mail: <tanyelle.richardson@ed.gov> or
visit [www.ed.gov/HEP/iegps](http://www.ed.gov/HEP/iegps) to download an
application.

If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), you may call
the Federal Relay Service (FRS) at 1-800-877-8339.

Individuals with disabilities may obtain a copy of the application
package in an alternative format (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape,
or computer diskette) by contacting the program contact person listed in
this section.

2\. [Content and Form of Application Submission]{.underline}:
Requirements concerning the content of an application, together with the
forms you must submit, are in the application package and instructions
for this program.

Page Limit: The application narrative is where you, the applicant,
address the selection criteria that reviewers use to evaluate your
application. You must limit the section of the narrative that addresses
the selection criteria to the equivalent of no more than 40 pages, using
the following standards:

-   A "page" is 8.5" x 11", on one side only, with 1" margins at the
    top, bottom, and both sides. Page numbers and an identifier may be
    outside of the 1" margin.

-   Double space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) all text
    in the application narrative, [except]{.underline} titles, headings,
    footnotes, quotations, references, captions and all text in charts,
    tables, and graphs may be single spaced. Charts, tables, figures,
    and graphs in the application narrative count toward the page limit.

-   Use a font that is either 12-point or larger or no smaller than
    10-point (characters per inch). However, you may use a 10-point font
    in charts, tables, figures, and graphs.

-   Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, Courier
    New or Arial. Applications submitted in any other font (including
    Times Roman and Arial Narrow) will be rejected.

-   The page limit does not apply to Part I, the Application for Federal
    Assistance face sheet (SF 424); the supplemental information form
    required by the Department of Education; Part II, the budget
    information summary form (ED Form 524); and Part IV, the assurances
    and certifications. The page limit also does not apply to a table of
    contents. If you include any attachments or appendices not
    specifically requested, these items will be counted as part of the
    Program Narrative (Part III) for purposes of the page limit
    requirement. You must include your complete response to the
    selection criteria in the program narrative.

We will reject your application if-

-   You apply these standards and exceed the page limit;

or

-   You apply other standards and exceed the

Equivalent of the page limit.

3\. [Submission Dates and Times]{.underline}: \[INSERT DATE OF
PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER \]

Applications Available:

Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: November 15, 2007.

Applications for grants under this program must be submitted
electronically using the Grants.gov Apply site (Grants.gov). For
information (including dates and times) about how to submit your
application electronically or by mail or hand delivery if you qualify
for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, please refer
to Section IV. 6. [Other Submission Requirements]{.underline} in this
notice.

Individuals with disabilities who need an accommodation or auxiliary aid
in connection with the application process should contact the person
listed under [For Further Information Contact]{.underline} in section
VII of this notice.

We do not consider an application that does not comply with the deadline
requirements.

4\. Intergovernmental Review: This program is subject to Executive Order
12372 and the regulations in 34 CFR part 79. Information about
Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs under Executive Order 12372
is in the application package for this program.

5\. [Funding Restrictions]{.underline}: We reference the regulations
outlining funding restrictions in the [Applicable
Regulations]{.underline} section of this notice.

6\. [Other Submission Requirements]{.underline}: Applications for grants
under this program must be submitted electronically unless you qualify
for an exception to this requirement in accordance with the instructions
in this section.

a\. [Electronic Submission of Applications]{.underline}.

Applications for grants under the Business and International Education
Program --- CFDA Number 84.153A - must be submitted electronically using
the Grants.gov Apply site at: http://www.grants.gov. Through this site,
you will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete
it offline, and then upload and submit your application. You may not
e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.

We will reject your application if you submit it in paper format unless,
as described elsewhere in this section, you qualify for one of the
exceptions to the electronic submission requirement [and]{.underline}
submit, no later than two weeks before the application deadline date, a
written statement to the Department that you qualify for one of these
exceptions. Further information regarding calculation of the date that
is two weeks before the application deadline date is provided later in
this section under [Exception to Electronic Submission
Requirement]{.underline}.

You may access the electronic grant application for the Business and
International Education Program at: http://www.grants.gov. You must
search for the downloadable application package for this program by the
CFDA number. Do not include the CFDA number's alpha suffix in your
search.

Please note the following:

-   When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will find information about
    submitting an application electronically through the site, as well
    as the hours of operation.

-   Applications received by Grants.gov are time and date stamped. Your
    application must be fully uploaded and submitted, and must be
    date/time stamped by the Grants.gov system no later than 4:30 p.m.,
    Washington, DC time, on the application deadline date. Except as
    otherwise noted in this section, we will not consider your
    application if it is date/time stamped by the Grants.gov system
    later than 4:30 p.m., Washington, DC time, on the application
    deadline date. When we retrieve your application from Grants.gov, we
    will notify you if we are rejecting your application because it was
    date/time stamped by the Grants.gov system after 4:30 p.m.,
    Washington, DC time, on the application deadline date.

-   The amount of time it can take to upload an application will vary
    depending on a variety of factors including the size of the
    application and the speed of your Internet connection. Therefore, we
    strongly recommend that you do not wait until the application
    deadline date to begin the submission process through Grants.gov.

-   You should review and follow the Education Submission Procedures for
    submitting an application through Grants.gov that are included in
    the application package for this program to ensure that you submit
    your application in a timely manner to the Grants.gov system. You
    can also find the Education Submission Procedures pertaining to
    Grants.gov at:
    http://e-Grants.ed.gov/help/GrantsgovSubmissionProcedures.pdf

-   To submit your application via Grants.gov, you must complete all the
    steps in the Grants.gov registration process (see
    http://[http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp]{.underline}).
    These steps include (1) registering your organization, (2)
    registering yourself as an Authorized Organization Representative
    (AOR), and (3) getting authorized as an AOR by your organization.
    Details on these steps are outlined in the Grants.gov 3-Step
    Registration Guide (see
    http://www.grants.gov/section910/Grants.govRegistrationBrochure.pdf).
    You also must provide on your application the same D-U-N-S Number
    used with this registration. Please note that the registration
    process may take five or more business days to complete, and you
    must have completed all registration steps to allow you to
    successfully submit an application via Grants.gov.

You will not receive additional point value because you submit your
application in electronic format, nor will we penalize you if you
qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, as
described elsewhere in this section, and submit your application in
paper format.

-   You must submit all documents electronically including all
    information typically included on the Application for Federal
    Assistance (SF 424), Budget Information\--Non-Construction Programs
    (ED 524), and all necessary assurances and certifications. You must
    attach any narrative sections of your application as files in a .DOC
    (document), .RTF (rich text), or .PDF (Portable Document) format. If
    you upload a file type other than the three file types specified
    above or submit a password protected file, we will not review that
    material.

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-   Your electronic application must comply with any page limit
    requirements described in this notice.

-   After you electronically submit your application, you will receive
    an automatic acknowledgment from Grants.gov that contains a
    Grants.gov tracking number. The Department will retrieve your
    application from Grants.gov and send you a second confirmation by
    e-mail that will include a PR/Award number (an ED-specified
    identifying number unique to your application).

-   We may request that you provide us original signatures on forms at a
    later date.

[Application Deadline Date Extension in Case of Technical Issues with
the Grants.gov System]{.underline}: If you are prevented from
electronically submitting your application on the application deadline
date because of technical problems with the Grants.gov system, we will
grant you an extension until 4:30 p.m., Washington, DC time, the
following business day to enable you to transmit your application
electronically, or by hand delivery. You also may mail your application
by following the mailing instructions as described elsewhere in this
notice. If you submit an application after 4:30 p.m., Washington, DC
time, on the deadline date, please contact either of the persons listed
elsewhere in this notice under [For Further Information
Contact]{.underline}, and provide an explanation of the technical
problem you experienced with Grants.gov, along with the Grants.gov
Support Desk Case Number (if available). We will accept your application
if we can confirm that a technical problem occurred with the Grants.gov
system and that that problem affected your ability to submit your
application by 4:30 p.m., Washington, DC time, on the application
deadline date. The Department will contact you after a determination is
made on whether your application will be accepted.

[Note]{.underline}: Extensions referred to in this section apply only to
the unavailability of or technical problems with the Grants.gov system.
We will not grant you an extension if you failed to fully register to
submit your application to Grants.gov before the deadline date and time
or if the technical problem you experienced is unrelated to the
Grants.gov system.

[Exception to Electronic Submission Requirement]{.underline}: You
qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, and
may submit your application in paper format, if you are unable to submit
an application through the Grants.gov system because----

-   You do not have access to the Internet; or

-   You do not have the capacity to upload large documents to the
    Grants.gov system;

> [and]{.underline}

-   No later than two weeks before the application deadline date (14
    calendar days or, if the fourteenth calendar day before the
    application deadline date falls on a Federal holiday, the next
    business day following the Federal holiday), you mail or fax a
    written statement to the Department, explaining which of the two
    grounds for an exception prevent you from using the Internet to
    submit your application. If you mail your written statement to the
    Department, it must be postmarked no later than two weeks before the
    application deadline date. If you fax your written statement to the
    Department, we must receive the faxed statement no later than two
    weeks before the application deadline date.

Address and mail or fax your statement to: Tanyelle Richardson, U.S.
Department of Education, 1990 K Street, NW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC
20006-8521. FAX: (202) 502-7859.

Your paper application must be submitted in accordance with the mail or
hand delivery instructions described in this notice.

b\. [Submission of Paper Applications by Mail]{.underline}.

If you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission
requirement, you may mail (through the U.S. Postal Service or a
commercial carrier) your application to the Department. You must mail
the original and two copies of your application, on or before the
application deadline date, to the Department at the applicable following
address:

[By mail through the U.S. Postal Service]{.underline}:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.153A)

400 Maryland Avenue, SW.

Washington, DC 20202-4260

> or

[By mail through a commercial carrier]{.underline}:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center -- Stop 4260

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.153A)

7100 Old Landover Road

Landover, MD 20785-1506

Regardless of which address you use, you must show proof of mailing
consisting of one of the following:

\(1\) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark,

\(2\) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by the
U.S. Postal Service,

\(3\) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial
carrier, or

\(4\) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary of the U.S.
Department of Education.

If you mail your application through the U.S. Postal Service, we do not
accept either of the following as proof of mailing:

\(1\) A private metered postmark, or

\(2\) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service.

If your application is postmarked after the application deadline date,
we will not consider your application.

[Note]{.underline}: The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a
dated postmark. Before relying on this method, you should check with
your local post office.

c\. [Submission of Paper Applications by Hand Delivery]{.underline}.

If you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission
requirement, you (or a courier service) may deliver your paper
application to the Department by hand. You must deliver the original and
two copies of your application, by hand, on or before the application
deadline date, to the Department at the following address:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.153A)

550 12th Street, SW.

Room 7041, Potomac Center Plaza

Washington, DC 20202-4260

The Application Control Center accepts hand deliveries daily between
8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Washington, DC time, except Saturdays, Sundays,
and Federal holidays.

[Note for Mail or Hand Delivery of Paper Applications]{.underline}: If
you mail or hand deliver your application to the Department:

\(1\) You must indicate on the envelope and --- if not provided by the
Department --- in Item 11 of the Application for Federal Education
Assistance (SF 424) the CFDA number -- and suffix letter, if any -- of
the competition under which you are submitting your application.

\(2\) The Application Control Center will mail a grant application
receipt acknowledgment to you. If you do not receive the grant
application receipt acknowledgment within 15 business days from the
application deadline date, you should call the U.S. Department of
Education Application Control Center at (202) 245-6288.

V. Application Review Information

1\. General: For Fiscal Year 2008 applications are randomly divided into
seven groupings. International business and outreach experts organized
into seven panels of three will review each application. Each panel
reviews, scores, and ranks its applications separately from the
applications assigned to the other panels. However, all applications
will be ranked from the highest to the lowest score for funding
purposes.

[Selection Criteria]{.underline}: The selection criteria for this
program are in 34 CFR 661.31 and are as follows: (a) need for the
project (25 points); (b) plan of operation (20 points); (c)
qualifications of the key personnel (10 points); (d) budget and cost
effectiveness (15 points); (e) evaluation plan (25 points); and (f)
adequacy of resources (5 points).

VI\. Award Administration Information

1\. [Award Notices]{.underline}: If your application is successful, we
notify your U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators and send you a Grant
Award Notification (GAN). We may also notify you informally.

If your application is not evaluated or not selected for funding, we
notify you.

2\. [Administrative and National Policy Requirements]{.underline}: We
identify administrative and national policy requirements in the
application package and reference these and other requirements in the
[Applicable Regulations]{.underline} section of this notice.

We reference the regulations outlining the terms and conditions of an
award in the [Applicable Regulations]{.underline} section of this notice
and include these and other specific conditions in the GAN. The GAN also
incorporates your approved application as part of your binding
commitments under the grant.

3\. [Reporting]{.underline}: At the end of your project period, you must
submit a final performance report, including financial information, as
directed by the Secretary. If you receive a multi-year award, you must
submit an annual performance report that provides the most current
performance and financial expenditure information as specified by the
Secretary in 34 CFR 75.118. The applicant is required to use the
electronic data instrument International Resource Information System
(IRIS) system to complete both the annual and final reports.

4\. [Performance Measures]{.underline}: Under the Government Performance
and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA), the objective for the BIE program is to
meet the nation's security and economic needs through the development of
a national capacity in foreign languages, and area and international
studies.

The Department will use the following measures to evaluate its success
in meeting this objective.

BIE Performance Measures: (1) The number of outreach activities that are
adopted or disseminated within a year, divided by the total number of
BIE outreach activities conducted in the reporting period. (2)
Percentage of BIE projects judged to be successful by the program
officer, based on a review of information provided in annual performance
reports.

If funded, information from your final performance report submitted via
the electronic International Resource Information System will be used to
record and evaluate the performance of your project.

#### VII. Agency Contact 

[For Further Information Contact]{.underline}: Ms. Tanyelle Richardson,
International Education Programs Service, U.S. Department of Education,
1990 K Street, NW., room 6017, Washington, DC 20006-8521. Telephone:
(202) 502-7626 or by e-mail: <tanyelle.richardson@ed.gov>

If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), you may call
the Federal Relay Service (FRS) at 1-800-877-8339.

Individuals with disabilities may obtain this document in an alternative
format (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, or computer diskette) on
request to the program contact person listed in this section.

#### VIII. Other Information

[Electronic Access to This Document]{.underline}: You may view this
document, as well as all other documents of this Department published in
the [Federal Register]{.underline}, in text or Adobe Portable Document
Format (PDF) on the Internet at the following site:
www.ed.gov/news/fedregister

To use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free
at this site. If you have questions about using PDF, call the U.S.
Government Printing Office (GPO), toll free, at 1-888-293-6498; or in
the Washington, DC, area at (202) 512-1530.

[Note]{.underline}: The official version of this document is the
document published in the [Federal Register]{.underline}. Free Internet
access to the official edition of the [Federal Register]{.underline} and
the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at:
www.gpoaccess.gov/nara/index.html

Dated:

> \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_/signed/\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

James F. Manning,

> Assistant Secretary
>
> for Postsecondary Education.

#### Authorizing Legislation and Regulations

**TITLE 34---EDUCATION**

**CHAPTER VI\--OFFICE OF POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATION**

**PART 655\--INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS\--GENERAL PROVISIONS**

**Table of Contents**

**Subpart A\--General**

Sec. 655.1 Which programs do these regulations govern?

 

  The regulations in this part govern the administration of the
following programs in international education:

\(a\) The National Resource Centers Program for Foreign Language and
Area Studies or Foreign Language and International Studies (section 602
of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended);

\(b\) The Language Resource Centers Program (section 603);

\(c\) The Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language
Program (section 604);

\(d\) The International Research and Studies Program (section 605); and

\(e\) The Business and International Education Program (section 613).

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121-1130b)

 

\[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993;
64

FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999\]

 

Subpart A\--General

Sec. 655.3 What regulations apply to the International Education
Programs?

 

The following regulations apply to the International Education Programs:

\(a\) The Education Department General Administrative Regulations

(EDGAR) as follows:

\(1\) 34 CFR part 74 (Administration of Grants to Institutions of Higher
Education, Hospitals, and Nonprofit Organizations).

\(2\) 34 CFR part 75 (Direct Grant Programs).

\(3\) 34 CFR part 77 (Definitions that Apply to Department Regulations).

\(4\) 34 CFR part 79 (Intergovernmental Review of Department of
Education Programs and Activities), except that part 79 does not apply
to 34 CFR parts 660, 669, and 671.

\(5\) 34 CFR part 82 (New Restrictions on Lobbying).

\(6\) 34 CFR part 85 (Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension
(Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace
(Grants)).

\(7\) 34 CFR part 86 (Drug-Free Schools and Campuses).

\(b\) The regulations in this part 655; and

\(c\) As appropriate, the regulations in\--

\(1\) 34 CFR part 656 (National Resource Centers Program for Foreign
Language and Area Studies or Foreign Language and International
Studies);

\(2\) 34 CFR part 657 (Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships
Program);

\(3\) 34 CFR part 658 (Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign
Language Program);

\(4\) 34 CFR part 660 (International Research and Studies Program);

\(5\) 34 CFR part 661 (Business and International Education Program);
and

 

\(6\) 34 CFR part 669 (Language Resource Centers Program).

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121-1127; 1221e-3)

 

\[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993;
64

FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999\]

Sec. 655.4 What definitions apply to the International Education
Programs?

 

\(a\) Definitions in EDGAR. The following terms used in this part and 34
CFR parts 656, 657, 658, 660, 661, and 669 are defined in 34 CFR part
77:

 

  ----------------------- ------------------------ -----------------------
  Acquisition             Applicant                Application

  Award                   Budget                   Contract

  EDGAR                   Equipment                Facilities

  Fiscal year             Grant                    Grantee

  Grant period            Local educational agency Nonprofit

  Project                 Project period           Private

  Public                  Secretary                State educational
                                                   agency

  Supplies                                         
  ----------------------- ------------------------ -----------------------

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121-1127)

 

\(b\) Definitions that apply to these programs: The following definition
applies to International Education Programs:

Combination of institutions of higher education means a group of
institutions of higher education that have entered into a cooperative
arrangement for the purpose of carrying out a common objective, or a

public or private nonprofit agency, organization, or institution
designated or created by a group of institutions of higher education for
the purpose of carrying out a common objective on their behalf.

Critical languages means each of the languages contained in the list of
critical languages designated by the Secretary pursuant to section
212(d) of the Education for Economic Security Act, except that, in the

implementation of this definition, the Secretary may set priorities
according to the purposes of title VI of the Higher Education Act of
1965, as amended.

Institution of higher education means, in addition to an institution
that meets the definition of section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act
of 1965, as amended, an institution that meets the requirements of

section 101(a) except that (1) it is not located in the United States,
and (2) it applies for assistance under title VI of the Higher Education
Act of 1965, as amended, in consortia with institutions that meet the

definitions in section 101(a).

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121-1127, and 1141)

 

\[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993;
64

FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999\]

Subpart B\--What Kinds of Projects Does the Secretary Assist?

Sec. 655.10 What kinds of projects does the Secretary assist?

 

Subpart B of 34 CFR parts 656, 657, 658, 660, 661, and 669 describes the
kinds of projects that the Secretary assists under the International
Education Programs.

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1021-1027)

 

\[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993,
64

FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999\]

 

Subpart C \[Reserved\]

 

Subpart D\--How Does the Secretary Make a Grant?

Sec. 655.30 How does the Secretary evaluate an application?

 

The Secretary evaluates an applications for International Education
Programs on the basis of\--

\(a\) The general criteria in Sec. 655.31; and

\(b\) The specific criteria in, as applicable, subpart D of 34 CFR parts
658, 660, 661, and 669.

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121-1127)

 

\[64 FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999\]

 

Sec. 655.**31** What general selection criteria does the Secretary use?

 

\(a\) Plan of operation. (1) The Secretary reviews each application for
information that shows the quality of the plan of operation for the
project.

\(2\) The Secretary looks for information that shows\--

\(i\) High quality in the design of the project;

\(ii\) An effective plan of management that ensures proper and efficient
administration of the project;

\(iii\) A clear description of how the objectives of the project relate
to the purpose of the program;

\(iv\) The way the applicant plans to use its resources and personnel to
achieve each objective; and

\(v\) A clear description of how the applicant will provide equal access
and treatment for eligible project participants who are members of
groups that have been traditionally underrepresented, such as\--

\(A\) Members of racial or ethnic minority groups;

\(B\) Women; and

\(C\) Handicapped persons.

\(b\) Quality of key personnel. (1) The Secretary reviews each
application for information that shows the quality of the key personnel
the applicant plans to use on the project.

\(2\) The Secretary looks for information that shows\--

\(i\) The qualifications of the project director (if one is to be used);

\(ii\) The qualifications of each of the other key personnel to be used
in the project. In the case of faculty, the qualifications of the
faculty and the degree to which that faculty is directly involved in the
actual teaching and supervision of students; and

\(iii\) The time that each person referred to in paragraphs (b)(2) (i)
and (ii) of this section plans to commit to the project; and

\(iv\) The extent to which the applicant, as part of its
nondiscriminatory employment practices, encourages applications for
employment from persons who are members of groups that have been
traditionally underrepresented, such as members of racial or ethnic
minority groups, women, handicapped persons, and the elderly.

\(3\) To determine the qualifications of a person, the Secretary

considers evidence of past experience and training, in fields related to
the objectives of the project, as well as other information that the
applicant provides.

\(c\) Budget and cost effectiveness. (1) The Secretary reviews each
application for information that shows that the project has an adequate
budget and is cost effective.

\(2\) The Secretary looks for information that shows\--

\(i\) The budget for the project is adequate to support the project
activities; and

\(ii\) Costs are reasonable in relation to the objectives of the
project.

\(d\) Evaluation plan. (1) The Secretary reviews each application for
information that shows the quality of the evaluation plan for the
project.

\(2\) The Secretary looks for information that shows methods of
evaluation that are appropriate for the project and, to the extent
possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable.

\(e\) Adequacy of resources. (1) The Secretary reviews each application
for information that shows that the applicant plans to devote adequate
resources to the project.

\(2\) The Secretary looks for information that shows\--

\(i\) Other than library, facilities that the applicant plans to use are
adequate (language laboratory, museums, etc.); and

\(ii\) The equipment and supplies that the applicant plans to use are
adequate.

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121-1127)

 

Sec. 655.32 What additional factors does the Secretary consider in
making grant awards?

 

Except for 34 CFR parts 656, 657, and 661, to the extent practicable and
consistent with the criterion of excellence, the Secretary seeks to
achieve an equitable distribution of funds throughout the Nation.

 

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1126(b)).

 

\[58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993\]

 

\[Code of Federal Regulations\]

\[Title 34, Volume 3\]

\[Revised as of July 1, 2001\]

From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access

\[**CITE**: **34CFR661**.**1**\]

#### Code of Federal Regulations

**U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION**

**GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS**

**(Title 34 Of The Code Of Federal Regulations (CFR) Chapter VI (7-1-01
Edition)**

**Part 661- Business and International Education (BIE) Program Final
Rule**

Subpart A\--General

Sec. 661.**1** What is the Business and International Education Program?

The Business and International Education Program is designed to promote
linkages between institutions of higher education and American
businesses engaged in international economic activities. The purpose of

each project assisted under this part is both to enhance the
international academic programs of institutions of higher education, and
to provide appropriate services to the business community that will
enable it to expand its capacity to sell its goods and services outside
the United States.

Sec. 661.**2** Who is eligible to apply for a grant under the Business
and International Education Program?

Under this program the Secretary considers applications from
institutions of higher education that have entered into agreements with
business enterprises, trade organizations or associations engaged in

international economic activity\--or a combination or consortium of
these enterprises, organizations or associations\--for the purposes of
pursuing the activities authorized under this program.

Sec. 661.**3** What regulations apply?

The following regulations apply to this program:

\(a\) The regulations in 34 CFR part 655.

\(b\) The regulations in this part 661.

Sec. 661.**4** What definitions apply to the Business and International
Education Program?

\(a\) Definitions in EDGAR. The following terms used in this part are

defined in 34 CFR part 77:

  ----------------------- ------------------------ -----------------------
  Acquisition             Applicant                Application

  Award                   Budget                   Contract

  EDGAR                   Equipment                Facilities

  Fiscal year             Grant                    Grantee

  Grant period            Local educational agency Nonprofit

  Project                 Project period           Private

  Public                  Secretary                State educational
                                                   agency

  Supplies                                         
  ----------------------- ------------------------ -----------------------

\(b\) Definitions in 34 CFR part 655. The following terms used in this
part are defined in 34 CFR part 655.**4**(b):

Combinations of institutions

Institution of higher education

Subpart B\--What Kinds of Activities Does the Secretary Assist Under
This Program?

Sec. 661.**10** What activities does the Secretary assist under this
program?

The activities that the Secretary may assist institutions of higher
education to conduct under this program, include but are not limited
to\--

\(a\) Innovation and improvement of international education curricula to
serve the needs of the business community, including the development of
new programs for nontraditional, mid-career, or part-time students;

\(b\) Development of programs to inform the public of increasing
international economic interdependence and the role of American business
within the international economic system;

\(c\) Internationalization of curricula at junior and community
colleges, and at undergraduate and graduate schools of business;

\(d\) Development of area studies programs and interdisciplinary
international programs;

\(e\) Establishment of export education programs through cooperative
arrangements with regional and world trade centers and councils, and
with bilateral and multilateral trade associations;

\(f\) Research for and development of teaching materials relating to
international education, including language materials, and facilities
appropriate to business-oriented students;

\(g\) Establishment of student and faculty fellowships and internships
for training and education in international business activities;

\(h\) Development of opportunities for business and other professional
school junior faculty to acquire or strengthen international skills and
perspectives;

\(i\) Development of research programs on issues of common interest to
institutions of higher education and private sector organizations and
associations engaged in or promoting international economic activity;

\(j\) The establishment of internships overseas to enable foreign
language students to develop their foreign language skills and their
knowledge of foreign cultures and societies;

\(k\) Establishing linkages overseas with institutions of higher
education and organizations that contribute to the educational
objectives of this program; and

\(l\) Summer institutes in international business, foreign area, and
other international studies designed to carry out the purposes of this
program.

Sec. 661.**20** What must an application include?

An institution that applies for a grant under this program shall include
the following in its application:

(a)(1) A copy of the agreement between the applicant and the other party
or parties described in Sec. 661.2 for the purpose of carrying out the
activities for which the applicant seeks assistance.

\(2\) The agreement must be signed by all parties and it must describe
the manner in which the business enterprise, trade association, or
organization will assist in carrying out the activities proposed in the

application.

\(b\) An assurance that the applicant will use the funds to supplement
and not to supplant activities conducted by the applicant.

Sec. 661.**30** How does the Secretary evaluate an application?

\(a\) The Secretary evaluates an application for a grant under this
program on the basis of the criteria in Sec. 661.31.

\(b\) The Secretary awards up to 100 possible points for these

criteria. The maximum possible points for each criterion are shown in
parentheses.

Subpart D\--How Does the Secretary Make a Grant?

Sec. 661.**31** What selection criteria does the Secretary use?

The Secretary uses the following criteria to evaluate applications for a
grant under this program.

\(a\) Plan of operation. (Maximum 20 points) (See 34 CFR 655.**31**(a).)

\(b\) Qualifications of the key personnel. (Maximum 10 points) (See 34
CFR 655.**31**(b).)

\(c\) Budget and cost effectiveness. (Maximum 15 points) (See 34 CFR
655.**31**(c).)

\(d\) Evaluation plan. (Maximum 25 points) (See 34 CFR 655.**31**(d).)

\(e\) Adequacy of resources (Maximum 5 points) (See 34 CFR
655.**31**(e).)

\(f\) Need for the project. (Maximum 25 points)

The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the
need for the project, and the extent to which the proposed project will
promote linkages between institutions of higher education and the

business community involved in international economic activities.

Sec. 661.**32** What priorities may the Secretary establish?

\(a\) The Secretary may each year establish priorities for funding from
the activities described in Sec. 661.10.

\(b\) The Secretary announces any priorities in the application notice
published in the Federal Register.

Subpart E\--What Conditions Must be Met by a Grantee?

Sec. 661.**40** What are the matching requirements?

A grantee shall pay a minimum of 50 percent of the cost of the project
for each fiscal year.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1130a)

## **TITLE VI OF THE HIGHER EDUCATION ACT**

##### **Part B - BUSINESS AND INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM**

#### FINDINGS AND PURPOSES

**Section 611 (a) The Congress finds that\--**

\(1\) the future economic welfare of the United States will depend
substantially on increasing international skills in the business
community and creating an awareness among the American public of the
internationalization of our economy;

\(2\) concerted efforts are necessary to engage business schools,
language and area study programs, public and private sector
organizations, and United States business in a mutually productive
relationship which benefits the Nation\'s future economic interest;

\(3\) few linkages presently exist between the manpower and information
needs of United States business and the international education,
language training and research capacities of institutions of higher
education in the United States, and public and private organizations;
and

\(4\) organizations such as world trade councils, world trade clubs,
chambers of commerce and State departments of commerce are not
adequately used to link universities and business for joint venture
exploration and program development.

**(b) It is the purpose of this part**-

\(1\) to enhance the broad objective of this Act by increasing and
promoting the Nation\'s capacity for international understanding and
economic enterprise through the provision of suitable international
education and training for business personnel in various stages of
professional development; and

\(2\) to promote institutional and noninstitutional educational and
training activities that will contribute to the ability of United States
business to prosper in an international economy.

**SEC. 613 EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMS**

**(a) PROGRAM AUTHORIZED**.-The Secretary shall make grants to, and
enter into contracts with, institutions of higher education to pay the
Federal share of the cost of programs designed to promote linkages
between such institutions and the American business community engaged in
international economic activity. Each program assisted under this part
shall both enhance the international academic programs of institutions
of higher education and provide appropriate services to the business
community which will expand its capacity to engage in commerce abroad.

**(b) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES.-**Eligible activities to be conducted by
institutions of higher education under this section shall include**,**

\(1\) innovation and improvement in international education curricula to
serve the needs of the business community, including development of new
programs for nontraditional, mid-career, or part-time students;

\(2\) development of programs to inform the public of increasing
international economic interdependence and the role of American business
within the international economic system;

\(3\) internationalization of curricula at the junior and community
college level, and at undergraduate and graduate schools of business;

\(4\) development of areas studies programs and interdisciplinary
international programs;

\(5\) establishment of export education programs through cooperative
arrangements with regional and world trade centers and councils, and
with bilateral and multilateral trade associations;

\(6\) research for and development of specialized teaching materials,
including language materials, and facilities appropriate to
business-oriented students;

\(7\) establishment of student and faculty fellowships and internships
for training and education in international business activities;

\(8\) development of opportunities for junior business and other
professional school faculty to acquire or strengthen international
skills and perspectives;

\(9\) development of research programs on issues of common interest to
institutions of higher education and private sector organizations and
associations engaged in or promoting international economic activity;

\(10\) the establishment of internships overseas to enable foreign
language students to develop their foreign language skills and knowledge
of foreign cultures and societies.

\(11\) the establishment of linkages overseas with institutions of
higher education and organizations that contribute to the educational
objectives of this section; and

\(12\) summer institutes in international business, foreign area and
other international studies designed to carry out the purposes of this
section.

> **(c) APPLICANTS.**-No grant may be made and no contact may be entered
> into under the provisions of this part unless an institution of higher
> education submits an application at such time and in such manner as
> the Secretary may reasonably require. Each such application shall be
> accompanies by a copy of the agreement entered into by the institution
> of higher education with a business enterprise, trade organization or
> association engaged in international economic activity, or a
> combination or consortium of such enterprises, organizations or
> associations, for the purpose of establishing, developing, improving
> or expanding activities eligible for assistance under subsection (b)
> of this section. Each such application shall contain assurances that
> the institution of higher education will use the assistance provided
> under this part to supplement and not to supplant activities conducted
> by institutions of higher education described in subsection (b).

**(d) FEDERAL SHARE**.-The Federal share under this part for each fiscal
year shall not exceed 50 per centum of the cost of such program.

#### Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA)

**What is GPRA?**

The Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA) is a
straightforward statute that requires all federal agencies to manage
their activities with attention to the consequences of those activities.
Each agency is to clearly state what it intends to accomplish, identify
the resources required, and periodically report their progress to the
Congress. In so doing, it is expected that the GPRA will contribute to
improvements in accountability for the expenditures of public funds,
improve Congressional decision-making through more objective information
on the effectiveness of federal programs, and promote a new government
focus on results, service delivery, and customer satisfaction.

**How has the Department of Education Responded to the GPRA
Requirements?**

As required by GPRA, the Department of Education has prepared a
strategic plan for 2007-20012. This plan reflects the Department's
priorities and integrates them with its mission and program authorities
and describes how the Department will work to improve education for all
children and adults in the U.S. The Department's goals, as listed in the
plan, are:

*Goal 1: Increase student achievement, reward qualified teachers, and
renew troubled schools so that every student can read and do math at
grade level by 2014, as called for by the No Child Left Behind Act.*

*Goal 2: Encourage more rigorous and advanced coursework to improve the
academic performance of our middle and high school students.*

*Goal 3: Work with colleges and universities to improve access,
affordability, and accountability, so that our higher education system
remains the world's finest.*

The performance indicators for the International Education Programs are
part of the Department's plan for meeting Goal 3.

**What is the Performance Indicator for the Business and International
Education Program?**

> The objective of the BIE program is to meet the nation's security and
> economic needs through the development of a national capacity in
> foreign languages, and area and international studies. Under the
> Government Performance and Results Act, the Department will use the
> following measures to evaluate the success of the program in meeting
> this objective.

[BIE Performance Measures]{.underline}:

> a\. Number of outreach activities that are adopted or disseminated
> within a year, divided by the total number of BIE outreach activities
> conducted in the current reporting period.
>
> b\. Percentage of BIE projects judged to be successful by the program
> officer, based on a review of information provided in annual
> performance reports.
>
> The information provided by grantees in their performance repots
> submitted via the electronic International Resource Information System
> (IRIS) will be the source of data for this measure.

#### Instructions for Completing 

#### the BIE Application Package

The BIE application consists of four parts. These parts are organized in
the same manner that the submitted application should be organized. The
parts are as follows:

**[Part I:]{.underline}** **424 Forms**

> Application for Federal Assistance -- (SF 424)
>
> Department of Education Supplemental Information Form for SF 424

**[Part II:]{.underline}** **524 Forms**

Department of Education Budget Summary Form -- (ED 524)

Sections A & B

\*[Note:]{.underline} Section C -- Budget Narrative should be included
in the Program Narrative Attachment Form, located in Part III.

**[Part III:]{.underline}** **Program Narrative**

> [ED Abstract Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline}
>
> [Project Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline}
>
> [Other Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline}
>
> [Budget Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline}

The [ED Abstract Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline} is where you
would attach your program abstract.

The [Project Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline} will include the
narrative sections addressing the program selection criteria that will
be used to evaluate applications submitted for this competition -- this
section has a strict page limit of 40 pages. Remember to include a Table
of Contents before the narrative.

The [Other Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline} is where you would
attach proposal appendices. Examples may include a detailed
agreement(s), curriculum vitas of key personnel, letters of support,
examples of evaluation materials, etc. The grants.gov system will allow
applicants to attach as many as ten separate appendices in this section.

The [Budget Narrative Attachment Form]{.underline} is where you would
attach any supplemental budget information not included in your project
narrative. This section [does not]{.underline} count against your page
limit of 40 pages.

**[Part IV:]{.underline}** **Assurances, Certifications, and Survey
Forms**

GEPA Section 427 Requirement

> Assurances - Non-Construction Programs (SF 424B)

Grants.gov Lobbying Form (formerly ED Form 80-0013)

::: Definition-Term
Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants
:::

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL)

#### Instructions for Program Narrative 

Applicants will attach the program narrative to the Project Narrative
Attachment Form.

**Formatting**

> A "page" is 8.5\" x 11\", on one side only, with 1\" margins at the
> top, bottom, and both sides. Page numbers and an identifier may be
> within the 1" margin. Double space (no more than three lines per
> vertical inch) all text in the application narrative, except titles,
> headings, footnotes, quotations, references, captions and all text in
> charts, tables, and graphs. Use one of the following fonts: Times New
> Roman, Courier, Courier New, or Arial. Applications submitted in any
> other font (including Times Roman and Arial Narrow) will not be
> accepted. Do not use anything smaller than a 12-point font.

Include a Table of Contents. Please note that the Project Narrative
Attachment Form is limited to **[40 pages]{.underline}**. This section
will include the discussion of the selection criteria. The abstract,
required forms, other narrative attachments, appendices, assurances and
certifications will not count against your 40-page limit.

Before preparing the Program Narrative, applicants should review the
Dear Applicant Letter, the [Federal Register]{.underline} notice
([Notice]{.underline}), program statute, and program regulations for
specific guidance and requirements. Please note that applications will
be evaluated according to the specific selection criteria specified in
the [Notice]{.underline} and this package.

The Secretary evaluates an application on the basis of the broad
criteria in 34 CFR 655 and 661 of the BIE Program regulations as
identified in this application (see "Authorizing Legislation and
Regulations"). The Program Narrative should provide, in detail, the
information that addresses each selection criteria. The maximum possible
score for each category of selection criterion is indicated in
parenthesis. The BIE selection criteria contain sub-criteria. Applicants
**[MUST]{.underline}** specifically address each sub-criterion.

Please limit the Program Narrative to 40 pages, [double-spaced in
12-point font]{.underline}, and number the pages consecutively. The
narrative should be written concisely. Only the required information
should be submitted. Please refer to the [Notice]{.underline} in this
application for additional application submission requirements.

To facilitate the review of the application, provide responses to each
of the following selection criteria in the following order:

1\. [Extent of Need]{.underline} (25 points)

2\. [Plan of Operation]{.underline} (20 points)

3\. [Quality of Key Personnel]{.underline} (10 points)

4\. [Budget and Cost Effectiveness]{.underline} ( 15 points)

5\. [Plan of Evaluation]{.underline} ( 25 points)

6\. [Adequacy of Resources]{.underline} ( 5 points)

7\. [Competitive Preference Priority]{.underline} ( 5 points)

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Total Maximum Score for Selection Criteria 105 points

**[The following guidance may assist you in addressing each of the
selection criteria]{.underline}:**

1**. Extent of Need for the Project (Maximum 25 points**)

> a\. Describe how the needs outlined in Section 611 are addressed by
> the project.
>
> b\. Describe how those needs were identified.
>
> c\. Describe how your plans for institutional development and for
> linkages with the business community meet those needs.
>
> d\. Describe the benefits to be gained by meeting those needs.

2\. **Plan of Operation (Maximum 20 points)**

> a\. Describe how the objectives of the project will be accomplished,
> and how these activities, and the activities provided for under the
> \"Agreement," relate to the purposes of Title VI, Part B.

b.  Describe the design of the project, and the activities that will be
    carried out, on a week-to-week or month-to-month basis for each year
    for which funding is requested. All activities, including those
    provided for in the \"Agreement," should be included.

c.  Describe how your plans for management of the project will ensure
    its proper and efficient administration. Include in the description
    the provisions for managing the activities which are provided for in
    the \"Agreement.\"

d.  Describe the ways the resources and personnel will be used to
    support the objectives of the project, including those which may be
    provided for in the \"Agreement.\"

e.  Describe how the project will provide equal access and treatment for
    eligible project participants who are members of racial or ethnic
    minority groups, women, handicapped persons, and the elderly.

3\. **Quality of Key Personnel (Maximum 10 points)**

a.  Describe the project director\'s education, experience and other
    qualifications. Show the percent of full-time effort which will be
    spent on the project.

b.  Describe the other key personnel\'s education, experience and other
    qualifications. Show the percent of full-time effort which will be
    spent on the project.

> c\. Show, as part of the institution\'s non-discriminatory employment
> practices, how applications for employment from underrepresented
> groups (e.g., members of racial and ethnic minority groups, women,
> handicapped persons, and the elderly) will be encouraged.

4\. **Budget and Cost Effectiveness (Maximum 15 points)**

a.  Provide a detailed breakout of all project costs for each year for
    which Federal funding is requested. Show both the Federal and the
    required 50 percent non-Federal match. Explain how these costs
    support the project activities.

> b\. Discuss the project\'s cost effectiveness and show the
> relationship between the cost of the project and the project\'s
> objectives.

5\. **Plan of Evaluation (Maximum 25 points)**

a.  Provide a plan for evaluating the effectiveness of the project.

b.  Indicate the criteria to be used to evaluate the results of the
    project.

c.  Describe the kinds of data to be collected and analyzed. Will this
    provide an evaluation that is objective and quantifiable?

d.  Explain the methodology that will be used to determine if the needs
    for which the project is designed are being met.

6\. **Adequacy of Resources. (Maximum 5 points)**

a.  Show that the facilities, equipment, supplies and other resources,
    including those identified by parties to the \"Agreement,\" are
    adequate to carry out the activities of the project. Describe the
    sources and kinds of matching resources which will provide the
    non-Federal share of the costs for the project.

7\. **Competitive Program Priorities. (Maximum 5 points)**

a.  Describe how the project meets the competitive program priorities
    announced in the [Notice]{.underline}.

#### Instructions for Budget Summary Form

#### & Itemized Line Item Budget

**[NOTE:]{.underline}** Applicants to the BIE program must submit (1) a
budget summary form to categorize requested funds (ED Form 524, Sections
A & B), **[AND]{.underline}** (2) a detailed line item budget and
accompanying budget narrative.

**[The budget summary]{.underline}** is to be included on the
"Department of Education Budget Summary Form -- (ED Form 524)." The
applicant must complete both Sections A & B.

**[Both the detailed line item budget AND accompanying budget
narrative]{.underline}** for both years should be included in the
"Budget Narrative Attachment Form".

This section requests information on the applicant's financial plan for
carrying out the project. Show both the Federal and any non-Federal
match. Explain how these costs support the project activities.

The BIE Program selection criteria provide for an applicant to receive
up to fifteen points for its proposed budget. The budget must include
all cost that are allowable, reasonable and necessary for carrying out
the objectives of the BIE Program. Among the cost that may be supported
with grants funds are:

1.  [Personnel]{.underline}: On line 1 (ED Form 524), enter only the
    project personnel salaries and wages. \[Fees and expenses for
    consultants should be included on line 8.\] The budget should
    include the total commitment of time and the total salary to be
    charged to the project for each key staff member. You should provide
    a breakdown of project personnel that includes: the position titles;
    the percent of time and number of months committed to the project
    for each key staff member; the salary for each key staff member; and
    the total salary costs to be charged to the grant.

2.  [Fringe Benefits]{.underline}: On line 2 (ED Form 524), enter the
    amount of fringe benefits. The institution's normal fringe benefit
    contribution may be charged to the program. Leave this blank if
    fringe benefits applicable to direct salaries and wages are treated
    as part of the indirect costs. In the budget, include an explanation
    and appropriate justification if the institution's normal fringe
    benefit contribution exceeds 20 percent of salaries.

##### [Travel]{.underline}: On line 3 (ED Form 524), provide the costs for project personnel and student participants. \[Consultants' travel should be included on line 8.\] In the budget, you should detail the proposed travel costs: for each trip explain the purpose and objective of the travel and provide the number of persons traveling. Transportation costs should not exceed tourist class airfare. For automobile mileage, the established institution rate should be used. Reimbursement is allowed for taxicab, bus, train, or limousine transportation. Per diem at the established institution rate is permitted when an individual is away from home overnight on official project business (see OMB Circular A-21, J.48.c - Commercial Air Travel). Foreign travel can be authorized under the grant. Please include in your travel budget funds to travel to our annual project directors' meeting. Allowable expenses regarding this meeting include, airfare and ground transportation, hotels, conference fees, meals and incidentals. 

4\. [Equipment]{.underline}: On line 4 (ED Form 524), indicate the cost
of equipment \-- non-expendable personal property, which has a
usefulness of greater than one year and an acquisition cost of \$5,000
or more per unit. \[Consistent with an applicant's policy, a lower
dollar amount may be used to define equipment.\] In the budget, explain
why the requested equipment is necessary to carry out project
activities, and include a list of all equipment in the following format:
item, quantity, cost per unit, and total cost.

##### 5. [Supplies]{.underline}: On line 5 (ED Form 524), include the costs of all tangible personal property that was not included as "equipment" on line 4. In the budget, provide an itemized list of the supplies.

6\. [Contractual]{.underline}: Not applicable. Leave blank.

7\. [Construction]{.underline}: Not applicable. Leave blank.

> 8\. [Other]{.underline}: On line 8 (ED Form 524), indicate all direct
> costs not covered on lines 1 through 5. The costs/fees for consultants
> and consultants' travel should be included here. Examples of "other"
> costs are: equipment rental, required fees, communications costs,
> rental of space, utilities, custodial services, and printing costs. In
> the budget, provide a breakdown of all direct costs not clearly
> covered by other budget categories.
>
> Evaluators and Consultants: If the project proposes to use outside
> evaluators and consultants, identify the consultants who will work on
> the project, the scope of work to be performed by each consultant, and
> justify why project personnel cannot perform this work. Also, provide
> a detailed breakdown of the costs (daily fees to be paid, estimated
> number of days of services, and all travel expenses, including per
> diem). Cost allowances for consultant fees, honoraria, per diem, and
> travel should not exceed amounts permitted by comparable institutional
> policies.
>
> 9\. [Total Direct Costs]{.underline}: On line 9 (ED Form 524), provide
> the total direct costs requested -- the sum of lines 1 through 8.

10. [Indirect Costs]{.underline}: On line 10 (ED Form 524), provide the
    amount of indirect costs that you propose to charge against the
    grant.

> Remember: Indirect costs are limited to 8 percent of a modified total
> direct cost base. To determine the modified total direct cost base,
> subtract capital expenditures of \$5,000 or more. {See EDGAR, 34 CFR
> 75.562 (c)}

11. [Training Stipends]{.underline}: Not applicable. Leave blank.

12. [Total Cost]{.underline}: On line 12 (ED Form 524, provide total
    amount that you are requesting -- the

> The sum of lines 9 and 10. Note: This amount should also be the same
> as that shown as 14a on the application face sheet (SF 424).

#### Business and International Education Program

#### FY 2008 Application Checklist

**[Use This Checklist While Preparing Your Application.]{.underline} All
items listed on this**

**checklist are required. The list is organized in the same manner that
the submitted application should be organized.**

**Part I: 424 Forms**

 Application for Federal Assistance - (SF 424)

 Department of Education Supplemental Information Form for the SF 424

**Part II: 524 Forms**

 Department of Education Budget Summary Form - (ED 524) -- Sections A &
B

**Part III: Program Narrative**

 Ed Abstract Form

 Project Narrative Attachments Form

 Other Attachments Form

 Budget Narrative Attachment Form

**[NOTE:]{.underline}** The "Ed Abstract Narrative Attachment Form" is
where you would attach your program abstract. The "Project Narrative
Attachment Form" will include the narrative sections addressing the
program selection criteria that will be used to evaluate applications
submitted for this competition .

The "Other Attachments Form" should include appendices such as a
detailed "Agreement,"

curriculum vitas of key personnel, letters of support, examples of
evaluation materials, etc. The "Budget Narrative Attachment Form" is
where you would attach a detailed line item budget and any supplemental
budget information.

**Part IV: Assurances and Certifications**

 GEPA Section 427 Requirement

 Assurances -- Non-Construction Programs (SF 424B)

 Grants.gov Lobbying Form (formerly ED Form 80-0013)

 Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants

 Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL)

**Paperwork Burden Statement**

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are
required to respond to a collection of information unless such
collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control
number for this information collection is **[1840-NEW]{.underline}**.
The time required to complete this information collection is estimated
to average 100 hours per response, including the time to review
instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed,
and complete and review the information collection. **If you have any
comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate or suggestions for
improving this form, please write to:** U.S. Department of Education,
Washington, D.C. 20202-4651. **If you have comments or concerns
regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write
directly to:** Office of Postsecondary Education/IEPS, U.S. Department
of Education, 1990 K Street, N.W., Sixth Floor, Washington, D.C.
20006-8521.