The NIH Kirschstein–NRSA F31 fellowship funds mentored predoctoral research training—supporting promising PhD students (U.S. citizens or permanent residents) to conduct dissertation research in health-related fields and develop into independent investigators.
Eligibility Criteria
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Citizenship & Enrollment: U.S. citizen or permanent resident enrolled in a PhD (or equivalent research doctoral) program at a domestic or eligible foreign institution.
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Career Stage: Predoctoral trainee yet to obtain the doctoral degree.
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Institutional: Home institution must be eligible for NIH training grants (see specific FOA for participating ICs).
Funding Details
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Instrument: Grant (TR—Training, Individual).
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Category: Research Training & Career Development.
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Duration: Up to 5 years (award period typically matches time to degree).
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Support:
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Stipend: NRSA stipend levels set by NIH.
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Tuition & Fees: Institutional allowance for tuition and related fees.
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Training-Related Expenses: Up to $5,000 per year for equipment, travel, and other research costs.
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Mentorship: Requires at least three reference letters and a detailed Training Plan with approved mentors.
Deadlines & Process
Standard Due Dates (annual):
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New & Resubmission: April 8, August 8, December 8 by 5:00 PM local time.
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Review Cycle: Scientific Merit Review June–July, October–November, February–March; Advisory Council August/October, January/April; Earliest Start Dates September/December, April/July.
Applicants must register and submit via eRA Commons and Grants.gov following the F31 Parent Announcement instructions.
Where to Apply & Further Information
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FOA & Instructions: (search “F31 Parent Announcement”)
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Apply via:
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Grants.gov (Funding Opportunity Portal)
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eRA Commons (Institutional Signing Official submits)
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Contacts: Consult your institution’s sponsored programs office and NIH staff listed in the FOA.