NSF GRFP Application Tasks
Important Note: This list does NOT include all of the things you need to do to apply. It is only a rough guide to help you along the way
(use the empty spaces to add tasks). Also, the tasks are not necessarily in order.
Date
October 7
November 3
November 4
November 4
Task
Determine eligibility
Write down the application deadline and the time you plan to complete your
application (this should NOT be the same day as the deadline!)
Register on FastLane
Familiarize yourself with FastLane
Upload your transcripts to FastLane
Copy and print the essay instructions from FastLane
Develop an outline for Essay One
Develop an outline for Essay Two
Talk with your adviser about the application and about the essays
Prepare to ask for letters of recommendation
Ask for letters of recommendation
Write a first draft of Essay One
Write a first draft of Essay Two
RSVP for a (or a few) Writing Workshop(s)
(https://grad.arizona.edu/ofce/workshop-and-presentation-materials)
Attend a Writing Workshop(s)
Discuss drafts with your adviser
Get feedback on your essays
Revise Essay One
Revise Essay Two
Reconsider the NSF Review Criteria
Meet with your adviser to discuss your new essay drafts
Complete the personal information on FastLane
Enter the names and email addresses of your recommenders into FastLane
Remind your recommenders. Ask what they need from you
Submit essays to UA Application Support Program for the Oct 8th deadline
Give your essays to colleagues, friends, and others for feedback
Revise your essays
Have one person do a final review of your essays
Upload everything to FastLane
View and print your complete application prior to submitting (this should NOT
be on the deadline) View deadlines here:
https://www.nsfgrfp.org/applicants/important_dates
Submit!
Print and save your confirmation
Go roller skating to celebrate your submission
Double-check that all of your reference writers have submitted their letters
Start knocking on doors if your letters have not yet been submitted
Confirm that everything is truly complete
Write thank you notes to everyone who wrote a letter of recommendation for
you