Step 1

Please visit https://www.grad.uiowa.edu/book-a-graduate-success-appointment.

Step 2

Search for Funding Opportunities using electronic funding databases, the UI Grant Bulletin, or other sources.  Most of the databases use keywords for searching contents.

  • Sponsored Programs Info Network - Search SPIN. For tips on how to enhance your search, please see the “Help” link in the upper right.
  • UI Grant Bulletin - an online newsletter of funding opportunities, recognition programs, and policy/procedural updates for the UI research community.
  • Funding Databases - includes links to electronic databases, government agencies, private foundations, selected topic links, and electronic publications.

Step 3

Learning to write a successful grant takes effort and persistence.  Numerous texts exist on the topic along with helpful hints.  DSP assistants are available to help you as you learn this process.

  • Complete and assemble the application packet as required by the funding organization.  Packets may include one or all of the following: 1) one or more versions of a Curriculum Vitae/Resume (assistance in preparing these can be found at the Pomerantz Career Center; an official transcript from the  Office of the UI Registrar; letters of recommendation, if required; any official forms for the competition; and other materials, such as a short research abstract.

Step 4

Submission of accurate and complete applications is essential to success. DSP staff can assist with this process.

  • Initiate an electronic routing form utilizing UIRIS. Complete the form, approve and it will enter into Workflow for departmental and dean approval.
  • Determine if the application has been designated by the UI Graduate College to be part of the Graduate Incentive Fellowship program.
  • The application and routing form should arrive in Sponsored Programs five days in advance of the funding organization's deadline.
  • DSP will provide copying and shipping services if needed and for free once the application packet is reviewed for completeness by a DSP reviewer.
  • The DSP Tracker permits you to view the status of your application once it is received by DSP.