A no-cost extension is requested when a PI wishes to extend a project end date (change it to a later date) but no additional funds are added by the sponsor to cover the extension period. No-cost extension requests are not always granted. Unexpended funds on the award must be available to cover project costs during the extension period. Different sponsors may have different requirements and processes.
NSF No-Cost Extension
To request a National Science Foundation extension, the PI will need to:
- Log into Research.gov
- Choose “Awards and Reporting”
- Choose “Notifications and Requests”
- Choose the award number for the project needing an extension under the “Prepare New” drop down box
- Click “Prepare New”
- Choose “Grantee Approved No-Cost Extension” on the left hand side (or “NSF Approved No-Cost Extension” on the right if this is a second extension on the award)
- Fill out the required information and save.
- Click “Send to SRO”
At this point, a representative from DRA will review the request and contact the PI.
NIH No-Cost Time Extensions (NCTE)
First No Cost time Extension
For NIH-funded awards, the university may extend the final budget period of previously approved project periods one time for a period of up to 12 months beyond the original expiration date shown in the notice of award if
- No term of award specifically prohibits the extension
- No additional funds are required to be obligated by the NIH awarding IC AND
- The project’s originally approved scope will not change.
Such an action affirms that additional work remains to be completed on the project and that resources are available to continue to support the project, or that additional time is needed to provide for an orderly closeout. The fact that funds remain at the expiration of the grant is not, in itself, sufficient justification for an extension without additional funds.
In extending the final budget period of the project period through this process, the university and the PI agree to update all required certifications and assurances, including, but not limited to, those pertaining to human subjects and vertebrate animals, per applicable regulations and policies.
Additional No-Cost Time Extensions
Additional project period extension beyond the initial extension of up to 12 months requires NIH prior approval. The request should include a description of the project activities that require support during the extension and a statement about the funds available to support the extension. Any late notification of the initial no-cost extension provided by the NIH Standard Terms of Award also requires prior approval.