A. Overview and Basic Information

  1. Overview - The information provided in this guide will assist your organization in preparing documents which the National Science Foundation (NSF) requires to conduct administrative and financial reviews of your organization. This guide also serves as a means of highlighting the accountability requirements associated with Federal awards. You should read this guide in its entirety since it contains information which we have identified, based on past experience with prospective grantees, as being most helpful to them in working with the NSF.

  2. Federal Requirements - Various Federal requirements apply to awards made by NSF. These requirements are set forth in the following documents: (1) Federal Cost Principles; (2) Federal Management Standards; and, (3) Federal Audit Requirements. If your organization does not currently have a copy of the documents setting forth the requirements which are applicable to your organization, they should be obtained as soon as possible.


    Type of Organization

    Educational


    Non-Profit

    Profit Organizations

    State/Local Government


    These documents can be obtained as follows:

    NSF Guides

    Internet Address: https://www.nsf.gov/home/grants3.htm

    OMB Circulars

    Phone Contact: Office of Management and Budget (202) 395-7332.

    Internet Address: http://www.whitehouse.gov/WH/EOP/OMB/html/circular.html


    FAR, Part 31

    Phone Contact: Government Printing Office (202) 783-3238

    Internet Address: http://www.gsa.gov/far/9037/html/31.html


  3. NSF Points of Contact - We recommend that you read the entire guide before calling for assistance. Many of the answers to questions organizations have are contained in this document.

    Division of Grants and Agreements (DGA)
    Staff in this office are responsible for award of grants and grant administration. This office should be contacted with questions in those areas which are not identified in the offices noted below. See cover letter for name and phone number for contact.

    Cost Analysis and Audit Resolution Branch (CAARB) (703) 306-1244
    Staff in this office are responsible for conducting accounting system reviews, negotiating indirect cost rates, and resolving audit findings. This office should be contacted with questions concerning accounting systems requirements, indirect cost rates and indirect cost proposal preparation, financial statements, and audits conducted on Federal awards.

    Division of Financial Management (DFM) (703) 306-1283
    Staff in this office are responsible for payments and processing of Federal Cash Transaction Reports (FCTRs). This office should be contacted with questions concerning payment forms, advances or reimbursements, and the FCTR if an award is made (see GPM 450).

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