1

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20202-2575

FY (enter year) APPLICATION PACKAGE FOR NEW GRANTS

UNDER

THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION 

RESEARCH 

REHABILITATION RESEARCH AND TRAINING CENTERS (RRTC)

(enter name of competition)

CFDA NUMBER: 84.133B-(enter schedule #)

FORM APPROVED

OMB No. 1820-0027, EXP. DATE xx/xx/xxxx

SF FORM 424, x/xx/xxxx

DATED MATERIAL - OPEN IMMEDIATELY

CLOSING DATE: (enter date) 
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section A Dear Applicant Letter

Section B Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards 

Section C Notice of Final Priorities

Section D Background Statement

Section E Statutory and Regulatory Requirements for RRTC’s

General RRTC Requirements

Section F Selection Criteria 

Section G Protection of Human Subjects 

Section H Application Format and Instructions

 Application for Federal Assistance (ED 424)

 Table of Contents

 Abstract

 ED Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (ED-524)

 Budget Narrative

 Project Narrative

 General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) Requirements – Section 427

 GG Lobbying Form (90-0013)

 Faith Based Survey on EEO

 ED Supplemental Form for SF 424

 SF LLL Disclosure of Lobbying

 Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support

Section I Frequently Asked Questions 

DUNS Number Instructions

Section J Grants.gov Submission Procedures and Tips for Applicants

Application Transmittal Instructions

Section K Voluntary Letter of Intent

Section L Required Forms and Form Instructions

Section M Application Checklist

Paperwork Burden Statement
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SECTION A

DEAR APPLICANT LETTER
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(enter date)

Dear Applicant:

The Secretary invites applications for a new award in fiscal year (FY) (enter year) under the 

Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers program, for a (enter title) (CFDA Number -

84.133B-(enter schedule #)). NIDRR is seeking applications that address all elements of the 

priority, and that propose appropriate, high-quality research methodologies. It is critical that 

proposals describe expected public benefits, especially benefits for individuals with disabilities, 

and propose projects that are designed to demonstrate outcomes that are consistent with the 

proposed goals. 

Due to the open nature of the competition, and to assist with the selection of reviewers for this 

competition, NIDRR is requesting all potential applicants to voluntarily submit a Letter of Intent 

(LOI). The submission is not mandatory and the content of the LOI will not be peer reviewed or 

otherwise used to rate an applicant’s application. Instructions for submittal are in Section K.

The start date for new awards for the (FY) (enter year) programs will be no later than October 1, 

(enter year).

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

This application package contains information and the required forms for potential applicants to 

apply and be considered for a FY (enter year) grant award under this competition, including the 

published Federal Register notice dated (enter date published). The background statement 

from the Notice of Proposed Priorities is in Section D.

The closing date (application deadline) is (enter date).

Potential applicants are advised to read the materials in this application package carefully. 

Please pay particular attention to the information contained in the Notice Inviting Applications 

on the eligible applicants and the dollar amount available for this competition, Section F – the 

Selection Criteria, Section G – Protection of Human Subjects, and Section H – Application 

Format and Instructions. Applications must be responsive to the absolute priority in Section C 

and the statutory, regulatory, and general requirements for the RRTC program in Section E. The 

application narrative should be written in the order of the selection criteria in Section F. The 

selection criteria will be used by the reviewers to evaluate the application. 
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Page 2, Dear Applicant

Include a one-page abstract. The abstract is a critical component of the proposal, and it should

describe the purpose, target population to be served during the project period, planned goals and 

objectives, proposed methodological approach, and anticipated project outcomes.

AWARD AMOUNTS AND RESTRICTED INDIRECT COST RATE

We will reject any application that proposes a budget exceeding the amount of (enter amount)

for a single budget period of 12 months for the (enter title) (CFDA Number - 84.133B-(enter 

schedule)). The required indirect cost rate is 15%.

APPLICATION SUBMISSION PROCEDURES

You must submit your application electronically through using the Grants.gov Apply site. See 

Section B, Notice Inviting Applications and Section J, Application Transmittal Instructions. 

NOTE: You will be uploading sections of your application by heading. There is a heading for:

(1) ) Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424); (2) Table of Contents; (3) Abstract; (4) ED 

Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (ED-524); (5) Budget Narrative; (6) Project 

Narrative; (7) General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) Requirements – Section 427; (8) GG 

Lobbying Form (90-0013); (9) Faith Based Survey on EEO; (10) ED Supplemental Form for SF 

424; (11) SF LLL Disclosure of Lobbying; and (12) Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support. 

There is a file-size limitation to each section, and you may upload only one document under each 

heading. Therefore, in order to make sure that all of your materials are uploaded successfully, 

you will need to combine multiple original documents for a heading (e.g., letters, resumes) into a 

single document before uploading.

Electronic copies must be fully uploaded on the Grants.gov site by 4:30:00 pm, Washington DC 

time on the closing, (enter date). This process may take several hours. Therefore, please allow 

several hours or a full day to submit your application. If there is a submission error, additional 

time will be needed to correct the error and resubmit. We encourage you to read Section J –

Grants.gov Submission Procedures and Tips for Applicants 

PROGRAM REGULATIONS

These grants are subject to the requirements of the Education Department General 

Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), in 34 CFR Parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, and 97, 

which set forth general rules affecting the submittal, review, grant award, and post-award 

administration for Department of Education grant programs.
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Page 3 – Dear Applicant

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

Pre-Application Meeting: A pre-application meeting will be held between 1:00 p.m. and on

(enter date) by teleconference. Interested parties are invited to participate in the pre-application 

meeting to discuss the funding priority and to receive information and technical assistance. You 

must contact (enter name) at (enter email address) by (enter date) in order to participate in 

this meeting. NIDRR staff also will be available to provide information and technical assistance 

via individual phone consultations from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on (enter date). Requests for 

individual consultations during this one hour window must be made in advance to (enter name).

If you have any questions about the information in this application package, please contact 

(enter name) at (enter email address) or by telephone at (enter phone number) or (enter 

name) at (enter email address) or by telephone at (enter phone number). Individuals who use 

a telecommunications device (TDD) may call the Federal Relay Service (FRS) at 1-800-877-

8339 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., EST, Monday through Friday. 

If you experience problems submitting your application through Grants.gov, please contact the 

Grants.gov Support Desk, toll free, at 1-800-518-4726. 

Thank you for your interest in these programs.

Sincerely,

(insert name)

Director,

National Institute on Disability and

Rehabilitation Research
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SECTION B

NOTICE INVITING APPLICATIONS FOR NEW 

AWARDS
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INSERT PUBLISHED FEDERAL REGISTER NOTICE
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SECTION C

NOTICE OF FINAL PRIORITY 
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INSERT PUBLISHED NOTICE OF FINAL PRIORITY
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SECTION D

BACKGROUND STATEMENT
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INSERT BACKGROUND STATEMENT
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SECTION E

STATUTORY AND REGULATORY 

REQUIREMENTS OF RRTCS

AND

GENERAL RRTC REQUIREMENTS
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RRTC Program

 The purpose of the RRTC program is to improve the effectiveness of services authorized 

under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, through advanced research, training, technical 

assistance, and dissemination activities in general problem areas, as specified by NIDRR. Such 

activities are designed to benefit rehabilitation service providers, individuals with disabilities, 

and the family members or other authorized representatives of individuals with disabilities. In 

addition, NIDRR intends to require all RRTC applicants to meet the requirements of the General 

Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers (RRTC) Requirements priority.

Statutory and Regulatory Requirements of RRTCs

RRTCs must—

 Carry out coordinated advanced programs of rehabilitation research;

 Provide training, including graduate, pre-service, and in-service training, to help 

rehabilitation personnel more effectively provide rehabilitation services to individuals with 

disabilities;

 Provide technical assistance to individuals with disabilities, their representatives, 

providers, and other interested parties;

 Disseminate informational materials to individuals with disabilities, their 

representatives, providers, and other interested parties; and

 Serve as centers of national excellence in rehabilitation research for individuals with 

disabilities, their representatives, providers, and other interested parties.

Applicants for RRTC grants must also demonstrate in their applications how they will 

address, in whole or in part, the needs of individuals with disabilities from minority

backgrounds.

General Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) Requirements

Background:

 NIDRR proposes the following General RRTC Requirements priority because it believes that 

the effectiveness of any RRTC depends on, among other things, how well the RRTC coordinates 

its research efforts with the research of other NIDRR-funded projects, involves individuals with 

disabilities in its activities, and identifies specific anticipated outcomes that are linked to its 

objectives in applying for RRTC funding. Accordingly, NIDRR intends to use Priority--General 

RRTC Requirements in conjunction with all of the other RRTC priorities in any notice.
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Final Priority:

 To meet this priority, the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) must--

(a) Conduct a state-of-the-science conference on its respective area of research by the 

fourth year of the grant cycle and publish a comprehensive report on the final outcomes of the 

conference by the end of the fourth year of the grant cycle. This conference must include 

materials from the experts internal and external to the RRTC;

(b) Coordinate on research projects of mutual interest with relevant NIDRR-funded 

projects as identified through consultation with the NIDRR project officer;

(c) Involve individuals with disabilities in planning and implementing its research, 

training, and dissemination activities, and in evaluating the RRTC; and

(d) Coordinate with the appropriate NIDRR-funded Knowledge Translation Centers and 

professional and consumer organizations, to provide scientific results and information for 

dissemination to policymakers, service providers, researchers, and others.
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SECTION F

SELECTION CRITERIA

*****

The selection criteria that are listed in this section are taken directly from the Federal regulations 

for this NIDRR-administered program (C.F.R 350.54). They are a subset of all of the selection 

criteria that are available for NIDRR’s use, and we provide them here as an example. For every

grant competition that NIDRR administers under this program, NIDRR will choose the criteria 

that match the requirements of the specific priority that is being competed.

*****
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Selection Criteria

We use the following selection criteria to evaluate applications under the RRTC program. The 

maximum score for all of these criteria is 100 points. The maximum score for each criterion is 

indicated in parentheses.

(a) Importance of the problem (4 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the importance of the problem.

(2) In determining the importance of the problem, the Secretary considers the 

following factors:

(i) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes the need and 

target population .............................................................................. (2 points)

(ii) The extent to which the proposed project will have beneficial 

impact on the target population ........................................................ (2 points)

(b) Responsiveness to an absolute or competitive priority (6 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the responsiveness of the application to 

an absolute or competitive priority published in the Federal 

Register.

(2) In determining the application's responsiveness to the absolute or 

competitive priority, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the applicant addresses all requirements of 

the absolute or competitive priority ................................................... (3 points)

(ii) The extent to which the applicant's proposed activities are likely 

to achieve the purposes of the absolute or competitive priority ........ (3 points)

(c) Design of research activities (40 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of research 

activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of 

the project.

(2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective 

in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the research activities constitute a coherent, 

sustained approach to research in the field, including a 

substantial addition to the state-of-the-art ........................................ (8 points)

(ii) The extent to which the methodology of each proposed research 

activity is meritorious, including consideration of the extent to 

which--

(A) The proposed design includes a comprehensive and 

informed review of the current literature, demonstrating 

knowledge of the state-of-the-art ......................................... (4 points)

(B) Each research hypothesis is theoretically sound and 

based on current knowledge ................................................ (7 points)
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(C) Each sample population is appropriate and of sufficient 

size ...................................................................................... (7 points)

(D) The data collection and measurement techniques are 

appropriate and likely to be effective ................................... (8 points)

(E) The data analysis methods are appropriate ......................... (6 points)

(d) Design of training activities (8 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of training 

activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the objectives of 

the project.

(2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective 

in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the proposed training methods are of 

sufficient quality, intensity, and duration ........................................... (4 points)

(ii) The extent to which the proposed training content--

(A) If relevant, is based on new knowledge derived from 

research activities of the proposed project .................................. (2 points)

(iii) The extent to which the proposed training materials and 

methods are accessible to individuals with disabilities ..................... (2 points)

(e) Design of dissemination activities (5 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of 

dissemination activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 

objectives of the project.

(2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective 

in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the materials to be disseminated are likely to 

be effective and usable, including consideration of their quality, 

clarity, variety, and format ................................................................ (3 points)

(ii) The extent to which the information to be disseminated will be 

accessible to individuals with disabilities .......................................... (2 points)

(f) Design of technical assistance activities (8 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the extent to which the design of technical 

assistance activities is likely to be effective in accomplishing the 

objectives of the project.

(2) In determining the extent to which the design is likely to be effective 

in accomplishing the objectives of the project, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the methods for providing technical 

assistance are of sufficient quality, intensity, and duration ............... (2 points)
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(ii) The extent to which the technical assistance is appropriate to 

the target population, including consideration of the knowledge 

level of the target population, needs of the target population, 

and format for providing information ................................................. (4 points)

(iii) The extent to which the technical assistance is accessible to 

individuals with disabilities................................................................ (2 points)

(g) Plan of operation (7 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of operation.

(2) In determining the quality of the plan of operation, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The adequacy of the plan of operation to achieve the objectives 

of the proposed project on time and within budget, including 

clearly defined responsibilities, and timelines for accomplishing 

project tasks ..................................................................................... (4 points)

(ii) The adequacy of the plan of operation to provide for using 

resources, equipment, and personnel to achieve each objective ..... (3 points)

(h) Adequacy and reasonableness of the budget (4 points)

(1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and the reasonableness of 

the proposed budget.

(2) In determining the adequacy and the reasonableness of the 

proposed budget, the Secretary considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the costs are reasonable in relation to the 

proposed project activities ................................................................ (2 points)

(ii) The extent to which the budget for the project, including any 

subcontracts, is adequately justified to support the proposed 

project activities ................................................................................ (2 points)

(i) Plan of evaluation (6 points)

(1) The Secretary considers the quality of the plan of evaluation.

(2) In determining the quality of the plan of evaluation, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic 

assessment of progress toward--

(A) Implementing the plan of operation ............................................ (2 points)

(B) Achieving the project's intended outcomes and expected 

impacts ....................................................................................... (2 points)

(ii) The extent to which the plan of evaluation provides for periodic 

assessment of a project's progress that is based on identified 

performance measures that—

(A) Are clearly related to the intended outcomes of the project 

and expected impacts on the target population ............................ (1 point)
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(B) Are objective, and quantifiable or qualitative, as appropriate ..... (1 points)

(j) Project staff (8 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the quality of the project staff.

(2) In determining the quality of the project staff, the Secretary 

considers the extent to which the applicant encourages applications 

for employment from persons who are members of groups that 

have traditionally been underrepresented based on race, color, 

national origin, gender, age, or disability ............................................... (2 points)

(3) In addition, the Secretary considers the following:

(i) The extent to which the key personnel and other key staff have 

appropriate training and experience in disciplines required to 

conduct all proposed activities ......................................................... (2 points)

(ii) The extent to which the commitment of staff time is adequate to 

accomplish all the proposed activities of the project ........................ (2 points)

(iii) The extent to which the key personnel are knowledgeable about 

the methodology and literature of pertinent subject areas ................ (2 points)

(k) Adequacy and accessibility of resources (4 points total)

(1) The Secretary considers the adequacy and accessibility of the applicant's 

resources to implement the proposed project.

(2) In determining the adequacy and accessibility of resources, the Secretary 

considers the following factors:

(i) The extent to which the applicant is committed to provide 

adequate facilities, equipment, other resources, including 

administrative support, and laboratories, if appropriate .................... (2 points)

(ii) The extent to which the facilities, equipment, and other 

resources are appropriately accessible to individuals with 

disabilities who may use the facilities, equipment, and other 

resources of the project .................................................................... (2 points)
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SECTION G

PROTECTION OF HUMAN SUBJECTS 
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Protection of Human Subjects

 Research activities involving human subjects supported by awards under these programs are 

subject to Department of Education Regulations for the Protection of Human Subjects. You do 

not need an assurance or IRB approval as a condition of applying for this competition.

 If you marked "Yes" for Item 3 of Department of Education Supplemental Information for SF 

424, you must provide a human subjects "exempt research" or "nonexempt research" narrative. 

Insert the narrative(s) in the space provided. If you have multiple projects and need to provide 

more than one narrative, please indicate which project each set of responses addresses.

 A. Exempt Research Narrative. If you marked "Yes" for item 3 a. and designated 

exemption numbers(s), provide the "exempt research" narrative. The narrative must contain 

sufficient information about the involvement of human subjects in the proposed research to allow 

a determination by ED that the designated exemption(s) are appropriate. The narrative must be 

succinct. In addition, narratives are required for each participating partner if research is being 

conducted at other sites.

 B. Nonexempt Research Narrative. If you marked "No" for item 3 a. you must provide the 

"nonexempt research" narrative. The narrative must address the seven points. Although no 

specific page limitation applies to this section of the application, be succinct.

 Copies of the Department of Education regulations for the Protection of Human Subjects as 

well as other documents are available on the website below. For more information call (202) 

260-3353 or go on-line the Protection of Human Subjects in research Web Site:

http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocfo/humansub.html
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SECTION H

APPLICATION FORMAT AND INSTRUCTIONS
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APPLICATION FORMAT AND INSTRUCTIONS

Applications for grants under this program must be submitted electronically using the Grants.gov 

Apply site (grants.gov) by the closing date unless you qualify for an exception to this 

requirement.

It is recommended that your electronic application (or paper application if you have requested and 

been approved for a waiver), be organized in the following manner and include the following:

NOTE: You will be uploading sections of your application by heading. There is a heading for: 

(1) Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424); (2) Table of Contents; (3) Abstract; (4) ED 

Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (ED-524); (5) Budget Narrative; (6) Project 

Narrative; (7) General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) Requirements – Section 427; (8) GG 

Lobbying Form (90-0013); (9) Faith Based Survey on EEO; (10) ED Supplemental Form for SF 

424; (11) SF LLL Disclosure of Lobbying; and (12) Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support . 

There is a file size limitation to each section and you may only upload one document under each 

heading. Therefore, in order to make sure that all of your materials are uploaded successfully, 

you will need to combine multiple original documents for a heading (e.g., letters, resumes) into a 

single document before uploading.

 1. Application for Federal Assistance (Form SF 424) 

This form requires basic identifying information about the applicant and the application. 

Applicants should note that there are multiple DRRPs open and use the RELEVANT

CFDA and Title from the NFP/NIA. 

 2. Table of Contents

The Table of Contents shows where and how the important sections of your proposal are 

organized.

While the application will be submitted electronically, the reviewers will use printed 

copies during the review process. The Table of Contents will assist them in more 

efficiently and effectively evaluating your application.

Upload the Table of Contents to Optional Forms: Other Attachments.

 3. Abstract 

The ONE-PAGE abstract should be a comprehensive description of what the whole (all 

years) project is, not a description of the competency of the institution or project director. 

It is not an executive summary. It can be single or double-spaced. 

Upload the Abstract to ED Abstract.

 4. ED Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (ED-524)

Remember that you must provide complete budget information for each year of the 

proposed project. Use the Budget Narrative heading to upload.
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Please report Federal Funds in Section A – Budget Summary and Non-Federal Funds in 

Section B – Budget Summary

.

Specific instructions for completing the budget forms are provided within this application 

package. 

Name: Enter the Name of the applicant organization(s) or institution(s) in the 

space provided. 

Personnel (Line 1): Enter project personnel salaries and wages only. Include fees 

and expenses for consultants on line 6.

Fringe Benefits (Line 2): The institution’s normal fringe benefits contribution 

may be charged to the program. Leave this line blank if fringe benefits applicable 

to direct salaries and wages are treated as part of the indirect cost.

Travel (Line 3): Indicate the travel costs of employees and participants only. 

Include travel of persons such as consultants and trainees on line 6.

Equipment (Line 4): Indicate the cost of tangible, non-expendable personal 

property that has usefulness greater than one year and acquisition costs that are 

the lesser of the capitalization level established by the applicant entity for 

financial statement purposes or $5,000 per article. Lower limits may be 

established to maintain consistency with the applicant’s policy.

Supplies (line 5): Show all tangible personal property except that on line 4.

Contractual (line 6): The contractual category should include all costs 

specifically incurred with actions that the applicant takes in conjunction with an 

established internal procurement system. Include consultant fees, expenses, and 

travel costs in this category if the consultant’s services are obtained through a 

written binding agreement or contract.

Construction (line 7): Not applicable. 

Other (line 8): Indicate all direct costs not covered on lines 1-6. For example, 

include costs such as space rental, required fees, honoraria and travel (where a 

contract in not in place for services), stipends, training, and communication and 

printing costs.

Total Direct Costs (line 9): The sum of lines 1-8.

Indirect Costs (line 10): There is no restricted indirect cost rate for this program. 

Use your institution’s federally negotiated rate.

Training Stipends (line 11): There are three types of projects that might include 

budget requests for stipends, tuition allowance, or other types of similar charges 

to support the objectives of the project: 

 Fellowship or Scholarship Programs

 Educational Training Projects
26

 Projects where students receive tuition remission or other forms of 

compensation, as, or in lieu of wages.

Total Cost (line 12): This should equal to sum of lines 9-11 (total direct costs + indirect 

+ stipends). The sum for column one, labeled Project Year 1 (a), should also be equal to 

item 18a on the application cover sheet (SF Form 424).

Cost Share: Please include this information on the ED Form 524, Section B – Budget 

Summary, Non-Federal Funds – Tab 2 and in your budget narrative.

 5. Budget Narrative

This part requires an itemized budget breakdown for the project year and the basis for 

estimating the costs of personnel salaries, benefits, project staff travel, materials and 

supplies, consultants and subcontracts, indirect costs and any other projected expenditures.

Address Cost Share in a separate section of the budget narrative labeled “Cost Share.” 

Please provide an itemized budget breakdown for each project year.

Upload the Budget Narrative to the Budget Narrative Section. 

 6. Project Narrative 

The application narrative responds to the General Requirements for DRRP’s found in

Section E and the Selection Criteria found in Section F of this application package. The 

reviewers will use this section to evaluate your application.

Upload the Project Narrative to the Project Narrative Section. 

Each applicant is encouraged to limit the project narrative to the equivalent of no more than 

125 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. 

 Double-space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) all text in the 

application narrative, including titles, headings, footnotes, quotations, references, 

and captions, as well as all text in charts, tables, figures, and graphs.

 Use a font that is either 12 point or larger or no smaller than 10 pitch (characters 

per inch).

 Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, Courier New or 

Arial.

 Include all critical information in the program narrative, minimizing the need for 

additional appendices.

 Ensure that you attach .PDF files only for any attachments to your application. 

PDF files are the only Education approved file type accepted as detailed in the 

Federal Register application notice. Applicants must submit individual .PDF files 

only when attaching files to their application. Specifically, the Department will 

not accept any attachments that contain files within a file, such as PDF Portfolio 

files. Any attachments uploaded that are not .PDF files or are password protected 
27

files will not be read. If you need assistance converting your files to a .pdf 

format, please refer to this Grants.gov webpage with links to conversion 

programs: 

http://www.grants.gov/help/download_software.jsp#pdf_conversion_programs

NOTE: The recommended page limit does not apply to the Application for Federal 

Assistance (SF 424), the budget narrative, the forms, the one page abstract, the resumes, 

the bibliography, or the letters of support. However, the recommended page limit does 

apply to all of the project narrative section.

 7. General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) Requirements – Section 427

Section 427 requires each applicant for funds (other than an individual person) to include 

in its application a description of the steps the applicant proposes to take to ensure 

equitable access to, and participation in, its federally-assisted program for students, 

teachers, and other program beneficiaries with special needs. 

 8. GG Lobbying Form (90-0013)

 Instructions for completing this form are included on the grants.gov website. 

 9. Faith Based Survey on EEO

Instructions for completing this form are included on the grants.gov website.

 10. ED Supplemental Form for SF 424

Instructions for completing this form are included on the grants.gov website.

 11. SF LLL Disclosure of Lobbying

Instructions for completing this form are included on the grants.gov website.

 12. Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support

Vitae of staff or consultants should include the individual's title and role in the proposed 

project, and other information that is specifically pertinent to this proposed project. 

If collaboration with another organization is involved in the proposed activity, the 

application should include assurances of participation by the other parties, including 

written agreements or assurances of cooperation. 

Upload the Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support to the Other Attachments- Optional

Section.
28

SECTION I

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

AND

DUNS NUMBER INSTRUCTIONS
29

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. CAN I GET AN EXTENSION OF THE DUE DATE?

In the case of most competitions the answer is no. On rare occasions the Department of

Education may extend a closing date for all applicants. If that occurs, a notice of the revised due 

date is published in the Federal Register, this extension will identify who is eligible to apply for a 

given competition. There are no extensions or exceptions to the due date made for individual 

applicants. Additionally, there are provisions for extension for Grants.gov, per the guidance 

included in the application package.

2. WHAT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE APPLICATION?

The application should include the following: (1) Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424); 

(2) Table of Contents; (3) Abstract; (4) ED Budget Information Non-Construction Programs 

(ED-524); (5) Budget Narrative; (6) Project Narrative; (7) General Education Provisions Act 

(GEPA) Requirements – Section 427; (8) GG Lobbying Form (90-0013); (9) Faith Based 

Survey on EEO; (10) ED Supplemental Form for SF 424; (11) SF LLL Disclosure of Lobbying; 

and (12) Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support if collaboration with another organization or 

individual is involved in any proposed activity, the application should include assurances of 

participation by the other parties, including written agreements or letters of cooperation. It is not 

useful to include general letters of support or endorsement in the application. If the applicant 

proposes to use unique tests or other measurement instruments that are not widely known in the 

field, it would be helpful to include the instrument in the application. Many applications contain 

voluminous appendices that are not helpful and in many cases cannot even be mailed to the 

reviewers. It is generally not helpful to include such things as brochures, general capability 

statements of collaborating organizations, maps, copies of publications, or descriptions of other 

projects completed by the applicant.

3. WHAT FORMAT SHOULD BE USED FOR THE APPLICATION?

NIDRR generally advises applicants to organize the project narrative to follow the selection 

criteria. The specific review criteria vary according to the specific programs and are included in 

this application package. Additionally, applicants should provide clearly stated hypotheses or 

research questions, goals, objectives, expected outcomes, and public benefit of the research or 

development project. The application should be organized to provide a thorough description of 

the methods and target population(s) and supported by evidence of need for the project, as 

identified in the relevant literature; citations are useful and may strengthen the proposal. 

Specific information on the format can be found in Section H – Application Format and 

Instructions of this application package.

4. ARE THERE PAGE LIMITS TO MY APPLICATION?

The application narrative is where you, the applicant, address the selection criteria that reviewers 

use to evaluate your application. We recommend that you limit the application narrative to the 

equivalent of no more than 125 pages, using the following standards: (1) A “page” is 8.5" x 

11", on one side only, with 1" margins at the top, bottom, and both sides; (2) Double-space (no 

more than three lines per vertical inch) all text in the application narrative, including titles, 

headings, footnotes, quotations, references, and captions, as well as all text in charts, tables, 

figures, and graphs; (3) Use a font that is either 12 point or larger or no smaller than 10 pitch 

(characters per inch); (4) Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, Courier 
30

New or Arial; and (5) Include all critical information in the program narrative, minimizing the 

need for additional appendices. Ensure that you attach .PDF files only for any attachments to 

your application. PDF files are the only Education approved file type accepted as detailed in the 

Federal Register application notice. Applicants must submit individual .PDF files only when 

attaching files to their application. 

5. MAY I SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO MORE THAN ONE OPEN NIDRR PROGRAM 

COMPETITION AT A TIME OR MORE THAN ONE APPLICATION TO A PARTICULAR 

PROGRAM COMPETITION?

Yes. You may submit more than one application in any given competition. You may submit to 

as many open competitions, for which an application is responsive to the program requirements. 

However, each competition is unique and the selection criteria will vary from one competition to 

another. It is important that each separate application include the required materials for that 

particular competition. 

6. DO I NEED AN ABSTRACT AND WHAT SHOULD IT INCLUDE?

Yes, you do need an abstract. The abstract is used by both the peer reviewers and the program 

staff in the review and processing of the application. The ONE-PAGE abstract should be a 

comprehensive description of the project (all years), not a description of the competency of the 

institution or project director. It is not an executive summary. It can be single or double-spaced. 

Upload to ED Abstract.

7. WHAT IS THE ALLOWABLE INDIRECT COST RATE?

An applicant for a Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers (133B) program may not collect 

more than 15% of the total grant award as indirect cost charges. The applicant must have a 

current indirect cost rate agreement to charge indirect costs to a grant. The maximum amount of 

the award includes both direct and indirect costs (ED Budget Information non-Construction 

programs (ED-524). The Department’s Indirect Cost Group has more information on what you 

should know about indirect cost rates, at its Web site: 

http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocfo/fipao/abouticg.html

8. CAN PROFIT MAKING BUSINESSES APPLY FOR GRANTS?

Yes. However, for-profit organizations will not be able to collect a fee or profit on the grant. 

9. CAN INDIVIDUALS APPLY FOR GRANTS?

Individuals are not eligible to apply for Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers Program.

10. CAN NIDRR STAFF ADVISE ME WHETHER MY PROJECT IS OF INTEREST TO 

NIDRR OR LIKELY TO BE FUNDED?

No. NIDRR staff can only advise you of the requirements of the program in which you propose 

to submit your application. However, staff cannot advise you as to whether or not your subject 

area or proposed approach is likely to receive approval.

11. HOW DO I ENSURE THAT MY APPLICATION WILL BE REVIEWED UNDER 

THE CORRECT COMPETITION?
31

Applicants must clearly include the competition title and CFDA number, on the Standard Form 

424, and include a project title that describes the project, based on the competition.

12. HOW SOON AFTER SUBMITTING MY APPLICATION CAN I FIND OUT IF IT 

WILL BE FUNDED?

The time from closing date to grant award date varies from program to program. Generally 

speaking, NIDRR makes awards within six to seven months after the closing date. Unsuccessful 

applicants generally will be notified within that time frame as well. When NIDRR is able to 

release information on the status of grant applications, it will notify applicants by letter. This 

information is not posted on the NIDRR homepage or the Grants.gov website.

13. WHAT START DATE SHOULD I USE ON MY APPLICATION?

For the purpose of estimating a project start date, the applicant should estimate approximately six 

to seven months from the closing date, preferably October 1. You must have a start date that 

allows you to complete an Annual Performance Report (APR) by May 31st with a minimum of 

six month of activities to report on. 

14. IF MY APPLICATION IS SUCCESSFUL, CAN I ASSUME I WILL GET THE 

REQUESTED BUDGET AMOUNT IN SUBSEQUENT YEARS?

No. Funding in subsequent years is subject to availability of funds and project performance. 

15. WILL ALL APPROVED APPLICATIONS BE FUNDED?

No. Peer review can result in more applications being determined to be worthy of consideration 

for funding than available resources allow. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to consider 

resubmitting applications in future competitions. Funded applications will be notified in the 

manner described in #12.

16. DO I HAVE TO INCLUDE COST SHARE IN MY APPLICATION?

No, cost share for this program is voluntary. If you include cost share, the information should be 

reflected on the ED 524 form, Section B (Budget Summary Non Federal Funds) and the budget 

justification.

17. WHAT DO I NEED TO DO ABOUT HUMAN SUBJECTS PROTECTION IN MY 

RESEARCH?

If you are planning research involving human subjects at any time during the project period, you check “Yes” in the 

Human Subjects section of the ED supplement to the SF 424 form. If you checked “Yes,” you need to indicate 

whether the research is exempt or not exempt from the protection of human subjects requirements of EDGAR part 

97 and if you have an IRB number. You will need to fill out the human subjects narrative for each site where the 

research is being conducted. The program and the Department’s human subjects staff review the applicant’s 

response against the application itself to determine its accuracy. They contact you for additional information or 

clarification, if needed. More information can be found in the instructions for the SF 424 form and in this 

application package in the Human Subjects section.

18. MUST I SUBMIT MY APPLICATION VIA GRANTS.GOV?
32

Applications for grants for this competition must be submitted electronically using the 

government-wide Grants.gov Apply site at 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, you qualify for one of the 

exceptions to the electronic submission requirement and 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.

19. HOW WILL I RECEIVE FUNDING FOR THE ADDITIONAL YEARS OF MY 

GRANT (CONTINUATION AWARD)?

In making a continuation award, the Secretary may consider under 34 CFR 75.253, the extent to 

which a grantee has made “substantial progress toward meeting the objectives in its approved 

application.” This consideration includes the review of a grantee’s progress in meeting the 

targets and projected outcomes in its approved application, and whether the grantee has 

expended funds in a manner that is consistent with its approved application and budget. In 

making a continuation grant, the Secretary also considers whether the grantee is operating in 

compliance with the assurances in its approved application, including those applicable to Federal 

civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities receiving Federal financial 

assistance from the Department (34 CFR 100.4, 104.5, 106.4, 108.8, and 110.23)
33

DUNS NUMBER INSTRUCTIONS

NOTE: Check with your fiscal office to see if your institution has an assigned DUNS before 

contacting Dun & Bradstreet

D-U-N-S No.: Please provide the applicant's D-U-N-S Number. You can obtain your 

D-U-N-S Number at no charge by calling 1-800-234-3867 or by 

completing a D-U-N-S Number Request Form. The form can be obtained 

via the Internet at the following URL:

http://www.dnb.com/US/duns_update/index.html

The D-U-N-S Number is a unique nine digit number that does not convey

any information about the recipient. A built in check digit helps assure the 

accuracy of the D-U-N-S Number. The ninth digit of each number is the 

check digit, which is mathematically related to the other digits. It lets 

computer systems determine if a D-U-N-S Number has been entered 

correctly.

Dun & Bradstreet, a global information services provider, has assigned 

D-U-N-S numbers to over 43 million companies worldwide. Live help 

Monday-Friday 8am-6pm (EST) Dial 1.800.234.3867

Note: Electronic submission via Grants.gov must use DUNS number your organization used 

when it registered in the Central Contractor Registry.
34

SECTION J

GRANTS.GOV SUBMISSION PROCEDURES AND 

TIPS FOR APPLICANTS

APPLICATION TRANSMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS
35

INSERT CURRENT GRANT.GOV SUBMISSION PROCEDURES AND TIPS 

INFORMATION
36

APPLICATION TRANSMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR MAIL OR HAND 

DELIVERY IF A WAIVER HAS BEEN OBTAINED

Submission of Paper Applications by Mail.

 If you submit your application in paper format by mail (through the U.S. Postal Service or a 

commercial carrier), you must mail the original and two copies of your application, on or before 

the application deadline date, to the Department at the following address: 

By mail through the U.S. Postal Service:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA number 84.133B-(enter schedule number))

LBJ Basement Level 1

400 Maryland Avenue, SW.

Washington, DC 20202-4260

 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.

(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.

(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: 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.
37

 Submission of Paper Applications by Hand Delivery.

 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 84.133B-(enter schedule number))

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: 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 SF 424 the CFDA number, including suffix letter, if any, of the competition under which you 

are submitting your application; and

 (2) The Application Control Center will mail to you a notification of receipt of your grant 

application. If you do not receive this notification 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.
38

SECTION K

VOLUNTARY LETTER OF INTENT
39

Notice of Intent to Apply: 

 Due to the open nature of the XXXX competition, and to assist with the selection of reviewers 

for this competition, NIDRR is requesting all potential applicants to submit a Letter of Intent 

(LOI). The submission is not mandatory and the content of the LOI will not be peer reviewed or 

otherwise used to rate an applicant’s application. 

 Each LOI should be limited to a maximum of four pages and include the following 

information: (1) the title of the proposed project, which final priority will be addressed, the 

name of the company, the name of the Project Director or Principal Investigator (PI), and the 

names of partner institutions and entities; (2) a brief statement of the vision, goals, and objectives 

of the proposed project and a description of its activities at a sufficient level of detail to allow 

NIDRR to select potential peer reviewers; (3) a list of proposed project staff including the 

Project Director or PI and key personnel; (4) a list of individuals whose selection as a peer 

reviewer might constitute a conflict of interest due to involvement in proposal development, 

selection as an advisory board member, co-PI relationships, etc.; and (5) contact information for 

the Project Director or PI. Submission of a LOI is a prerequisite for eligibility to submit an 

application. 

 NIDRR will accept the optional LOI via surface mail, e-mail, or facsimile by (INSERT 

DATE 30 DAYS AFTER DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER). The 

LOI must be sent to: Surface mail: Person’s Name, U.S. Department of Education, 550 12th 

Street, SW, room XXXX, Potomac Center Plaza, Washington, DC 20202; or fax (202) 245-

7323; or e-mail: persons.name@ed.gov

 For further information regarding the LOI requirement contact Person’s Name at (202) 245-

XXXX.
40

SECTION L

REQUIRED FORMS

AND

FORM INSTRUCTIONS
41

APPLICATION FORMS

All electronic and paper (if a waiver has been submitted and approved) applications submitted to 

NIDRR must include the following forms/parts:

 Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424)

 Table of Contents

 Abstract

 ED Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (ED-524)

 Budget Narrative

 Project Narrative

 General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) Requirements – Section 427

 GG Lobbying Form (90-0013)

 Faith Based Survey on EEO

 ED Supplemental Form for SF 424

 SF LLL Disclosure of Lobbying

 Vitae/Bibliography/Letters of Support

A separate application must be submitted for each grant sought. No grant may be awarded 

unless the completed application forms have been received. All above forms are mandatory and 

must be submitted with the application. If an item does not appear to be relevant, write "NA" for 

not applicable.

Instructions for each form are provided on the Grants.gov website.
42

SECTION M

APPLICATION CHECKLIST
43

_____________________________________________________________

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

[ ] Did you complete the registration process for Grants.gov for the mandatory electronic 

submission on www.grants.gov?

Does your application include each of the following?

[ ] Cover page (SF 424) marked appropriately with 84.133B-(enter schedule #). Download 

of correct package for 84.133B-(enter schedule #) applying electronically

[ ] Priority Topic identified in the Descriptive Title in Block 11 of the SF 424

[ ] Budget form (ED form 524) with dollar amounts not exceeding the maximum in any year

[ ] Voluntary Cost Share included both on the “B” side of the ED 524 and explained in the 

budget narrative for each year

[ ] Budget narrative for each year with arithmetic checked for accuracy

[ ] Program narrative, including abstract and responses to the selection criteria

[ ] Assurances and Certifications (from the forms list in section K)

[ ] Correctly uploaded files on e-Application 

[ ] Narrative on the Protection of Human Subjects

Did you do each of the following?

[ ] Submit application on or before (enter date)

[ ] Fully complete the upload of your application and receive successful validation of the 

submission before 4:30:00 pm, Washington, D.C. time on the closing date

[ ] Provide the required 1 original and 2 copies of the application if submitting by post, 

hand-delivery, or carrier service. (If possible, please also send 9 additional paper copies and a 

disk copy.) 

[ ] Use the correct mailing address from Section J if submitting by post, hand-delivery or 

carrier service
44

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. Public 

reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 200 hours per 

response, including time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering 

and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. 

The obligation to respond to this collection is required to obtain or retain benefits (the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the program regulations under 34 CFR Parts 74-77, 

80-86, and 97). Send comments regarding the burden estimate or any other aspect of this 

collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to the U.S. Department 

of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20210-4537 or email 

ICDocketMgr@ed.gov and reference the OMB Control Number 1820-0027. Note: Please do not 

return the completed application to this address.