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Step 2: Complete Your Application Package

The following instructions explain how to complete the application you downloaded from Grants.gov. Completing your application package is a long step that includes writing your proposal and filling out all the required forms, fields, and certifications.

Tips for Completing Your Application

  • Save Frequently: Having downloaded your application package from Grants.gov means you will complete it offline, so it is important to save your progress frequently. Also, if you have not already checked your Adobe software for compatibility with Grants.gov, please do so now before spending time completing an application that you cannot successfully submit to the system.
  • File Size Limit: The total application submission size cannot exceed 200 MB, and we also recommend keeping individual attachments under 100 MB. Keep this in mind as you complete the forms and attach your files. It is up to you to make sure your submissions do not exceed these limits and failure to keep the file under the limit may cause your application package to be rejected by Grants.gov or by the agency.
  • Complete Your Application Before the Deadline: We strongly recommend submitting your completed application package at least 24 to 48 hours prior to the closing date, so plan ahead and complete your application package ahead of time. If you wait until the last day, issues like an internet outage, slow upload speed, or an incomplete application package can cause you to miss the deadline and miss out on a funding opportunity.

How to Complete an Application Package

The following instructions explain how to use the Grants.gov forms to complete an application package.

  1. Open the saved application from your computer.
  2. Verify that the pre-entered information on the cover page is accurate. If any of the information, such as Opportunity Title or CFDA Number, is not for the grant opportunity you want to apply to, click the Cancel button, then search for and download the correct application package.
  3. Select the Save button to save your progress at any time.
NOTE: The Save & Submit button at the top of the screen will not be functional until the application is properly completed and saved.
  1. Enter a name for the application in the Application Filing Name field.
  2. Open and complete all the documents listed under Mandatory, as well as the relevant documents under Optional.
Complete your application screenshot

How to Complete the Form

Many of the forms' fields are noted as required using an asterisk as well as highlighting in yellow with a red border. All of these fields must be filled out in order to submit your application. Grants.gov will not accept an application if any of these fields does not have information. Optional fields and completed fields are displayed in white.

Follow the steps below to complete forms contained within an application package.

  • Select any field and enter the necessary information.
  • Use the Tab button on your keyboard to move from field to field.
  • If you enter invalid or incomplete information in a required field, you will receive an error message upon leaving the field.

To save your work, select the Save button on the cover page to save your entire application.