1. Familiarize yourself with this website so that you have a sense of the requirements and expectations.
2. COMPLETE THE TRAINING. All applications require that the researcher and his/her associates complete background training in ethical standards. Applications will not be accepted without that information, so this will constitute a critical first step. Faculty and graduate students complete the CITI training. Undergraduate students and staff complete either the CITI or NIH training. See the Training Information section for further details.
3. CHOOSE AN APPLICATION FORM. There are two different application processes and two different application forms. To determine which is best for your project, use the Decision Trees.
4. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS ON THE APPLICATION FORM. Each application form is accompanied by a set of instructions. Careful attention to the instructions will save time and energy and decrease the likelihood of rejection or required revisions. Please utilize the Informed Consent information and samples for the same reason. Proofread carefully!
5. SUBMIT THE FORM
• Tier I applications require the submission of both a signed hard copy and an unsigned electronic copy, as noted above. Review of applications cannot begin until both are complete.
• Tier II applications are subject to intra-departmental review. Check with the chair of your department for specific submission information.

Please be mindful of the time needed for the IRB to make its decision. Data collection cannot begin until approval has been granted. If your research is intended to be presented at a conference, please allow one month before the proposal is due and inform the IRB in your cover email.