Policies & Procedures

About Research Administration at GSU

Policies and Procedures for Research and Sponsored Programs

Policies and Procedures for Research and Sponsored Programs

Requesting No-cost Extensions

Background

The Principal Investigator is expected to complete work under sponsored agreements within the project period specified in the award.  However, if the Principal Investigator needs additional time to complete the approved scope of work within the limit of funds already made available, the sponsor may consider a request to extend the expiration date of the award at no additional cost.  A request to modify a sponsored agreement must be submitted to the ORSSP Grant Coordinator.  If the project involves the use of humans or animals as research subjects, an updated approval valid for the length of the extension will be necessary.  If the portion of the work that involved the use of research subjects is completed, a statement indicating such should be provided.

Most federal sponsors do not consider the fact that funds remain unobligated at the expiration of the award as sufficient justification for an extension of time. Normally, no single extension may exceed twelve months and only in exceptional cases will more than one extension be granted.

Process

Please notify your Grant Coordinator in writing of your request to extend the expiration date.  The request should generally contain:

1. The length of time for which the extension is being requested and a justification for the extension;
2. A brief statement as to progress and work remaining to be completed; and
3. An estimate of funds expected to remain unobligated on the scheduled expiration date.
   

In most cases, the ORSSP must notify the sponsor at least ten (10) days prior to the expiration of the award and therefore requires the Principal Investigator request an extension at least fifteen (15) days prior.  Depending upon the sponsor and the sponsored agreement used between the parties, the approval to extend the expiration date will be memorialized by a modification to the sponsored agreement and signed by an Authorized Official of both parties.