Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Predoctoral Fellowship (Parent F31)
🏛 National Institutes of Health (HHS-NIH11)
✓ Free, no account · Source: Grants.gov · Last verified Jul 16, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for predoctoral students pursuing PhD research in biomedical, behavioral, or related health sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents enrolled full-time in an accredited doctoral program at a U.S. institution. Sponsorship by a research mentor and institutional support are required.
The award supports doctoral dissertation research across most NIH study sections. Applicants can be at any stage of doctoral training, including those with prior postdoctoral experience. International students on eligible visas may qualify in some cases.
Individual F31 fellowships are non-renewable. Awards provide stipend support, tuition/fees, and an institutional allowance. The program prioritizes research training and mentorship for the next generation of independent researchers.
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Program description
The purpose of the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Individual Predoctoral (Parent F31) award is to enable promising predoctoral students will obtain individualized, mentored research training from outstanding faculty sponsors while conducting dissertation research projects in scientific health-related fields relevant to the missions of the participating NIH Institutes and Centers. The proposed mentored research training must reflect the candidates dissertation research project and is expected to clearly enhance the individuals potential to develop into a productive, independent research scientist.
This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) does not allow candidates to propose to lead an independent clinical trial but does allow candidates to propose research experience in a clinical trial led by a sponsor or co-sponsor.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- SF-424 (R&R) Form
- Project Narrative (Research Plan and Career Development Plan)
- Biographical Sketch (for applicant and mentor)
- Letters of Support (from mentor and institution)
- Sponsor Statement
- Budget Narrative
- Research Support Summary (if prior awards)
- NIH Biographical Sketch (if applicable)
Program contact
- 👤 National Institutes of Health
- 📧 grantsinfo@nih.gov
- 📞 301-402-2541
Funding track record
Recent awards under CFDA 93.398 from the last 3 years — real organizations that won funding through this same program.
Top 10 Largest Recent Awards
-
$23,853,515
-
$22,820,040
-
$17,454,036
-
$15,407,472
-
$14,832,927
-
$14,410,208
-
$14,234,718
-
$14,219,981
-
$13,766,537
-
$13,734,930
Top States by Funding
- CA 14 awards $114.6M
- MA 10 awards $104.9M
- TX 9 awards $102.7M
- NY 9 awards $65.8M
- NC 6 awards $62.1M
Source: USAspending.gov — federal spending transparency. Data covers last 3 years.
Funding history
Annual funding for this program — Federal obligations (CFDA 93.398). How funding has trended year over year.
| 2024 | $228,173,992 | |
| 2025 | $213,201,522 | |
| 2026 est. | $135,455,000 |
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for an F31 NRSA fellowship?
You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident pursuing a doctoral degree in a biomedical or health-related field. Some international students on certain visa types may be eligible; check current NIH guidelines.
What is the deadline and when does the application window open?
The deadline is typically in May (2028-05-07 for this cycle). The application window opens in June the prior year (2025-06-12). Apply well before the deadline to allow review time.
What costs does the F31 cover?
The award provides a monthly stipend, tuition and fees coverage, and an institutional allowance. Budget varies by institution and research area. Review the NIH stipend table for your training year.
How competitive is this fellowship?
F31 fellowships are highly competitive. Success rates typically range from 20-30%. Strong research proposal, mentor support, and clear career goals are essential.
Can I reapply if not funded?
Yes, you may reapply in subsequent years if still eligible. Feedback from review committees can strengthen a revised application.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Start early and select a mentor experienced in mentoring predoctoral fellows. Their guidance strengthens your entire application.
- Write a specific, feasible research proposal. Show clear research questions and methods appropriate for dissertation training.
- Emphasize career development plans. Reviewers want to see how this fellowship advances your independent research career.
- Address diversity and inclusion if applicable. NIH values applications from underrepresented groups in research.
- Have institutional mentors and administrators review drafts. They know NIH expectations and can catch gaps.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Poor mentor selection or unclear mentorship plans lead to rejections. Reviewers need confidence the mentor can guide your research.
Overly ambitious or unfocused research aims undermine competitiveness. Your proposal must be feasible within the fellowship period.
Weak justification for why you need fellowship support signals inadequate preparation. Clearly articulate your research vision and career trajectory.
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