April 7, 2026
NIH – Update Late & Continuous Submissions
This message was sent to all active PIs & MRAM.
On March 31, 2026, NIH issued this policy Update of NIH Late Application Submission Policy and End of Continuous Submission NOT-OD-26-064.
While the notice ends the Continuous Submission policy, it also announces updated reasons for late submission.
NIH’s Continuous Submission policy ends after August 10, 2026.
The Late Submission Policy will include concessions for PD/PIs who have participated in recent review or advisory group meetings.
- On or after May 25, 2026: Late Submission Policy update is effective for applications due on or after May 25, 2026.
- Named PD/PIs on applications may submit during the late application period if “within four calendar weeks before or after the due date they have participated in:
- An NIH peer review study section or special emphasis panel
- An NIH Board of Scientific Counselors, Program Advisory Committee, or an NIH Advisory Board or Council”
- Per the notice, “This specific review service is the only pre-authorized reason for a late submission (i.e., automatically accepted once review service information provided in the cover letter is confirmed). Other types of NIH activities and services for other federal agencies or private organizations are not acceptable reasons for late submission.”