Other Information Dissertation proposals are evaluated by at least three reviewers. Funding decisions should be made within 4-6 months. Keep in mind that the speed with which a decision can be reached in part depends on the speed with which reviewers are able to provide comments. Proposals which arrive during the summer, for instance may be delayed as many potential reviewers are in the field. For more information, prospective applicants should consult the latest copy of NSF's Guide to Programs.
Successful proposals share a number of features.
First, they should approach a theoretically interesting question. Purely descriptive research projects rarely are funded. The background and goals should be clearly and concisely presented. The materials and methods need to be well documented. Many proposals fail because of loose ends.