Education in the United States: Useful Information->Financial Aid for Graduates #0

Writing Research Grant Proposals or Applications

When a department committee or review board looks at research proposals, they compare competing proposals with respect to several criteria:

Is the proposed institution appropriate? Does the institution have researchers that will be interested in the project and able to supervise the work? If equipment is necessary, is the right equipment available or are funds available for buying it? Are library or research collection facilities adequate?

Does the applicant clearly show the necessary background in education and experience to be able to do the research successfully? Has he/she demonstrated research aptitude? Supporting documents or past papers are helpful.

Is the proposal carefully written and neatly presented? A typed presentation is always best. The proposal should begin with a clear statement of goals of the intended research project. It should include a summary of background information regarding the need for the research, highlights of related research, including a bibliography, step-by-step description of the research plan with expected results or major theses, and a conclusion.

Is the proposed research significant, timely, and critical? Although creativity, originality and substance are usually the most important criteria in choosing among proposals, disciplines differ. In some fields, such as medicine, proposals that have great promise of practical application may have an advantage.

If you are applying for a grant or program that supports development in your country, it may be helpful in your application if you choose a subject for research that can be applied in your work after you return to your home country.

Useful Information: Financial Aid for Graduates