Each year, the National Science Foundation releases a new Proposal & Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG). In 2020, the document’s number will be NSF 20-1.

The changes outlined in NSF 20-1 will be effective for proposals submitted or due, and awards made, on or after June 1, 2020. While the changes are not yet required, it is always best to adopt the changes immediately to be sure to fulfill the requirements. Significant changes for 2020 are as follows.

The NSF format for the biosketch and current and pending support documents is changing. These documents will now need to be made in SciENcv: Science Experts Network Curriculum Vitae. Refer to this article from January 6 for more information, or visit the NSF online references for biographical sketches, current and pendings, and C&P frequently asked questions (PDF).

In addition, there is a new requirement for proposing organizations to submit government-wide representations and certifications in the System for Award Management (SAM); new requirements for providing email documentation of Program Officer approval for the submission of RAPID and EAGER proposals; and clarifications to current C&P as well as other changes through the document.

Questions on these new rules may be directed to the NSF Division of Institution and Award Support Policy Office.