*What is the difference between an NIH PAR and RFA program?

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) uses different types of funding opportunity announcements (FOAs) to solicit grant applications. Two common types are PAR (Program Announcement with Special Receipt, Referral, and/or Review Considerations) and RFA (Request for Applications). Here are the key differences between them:

1. PAR (Program Announcement with Special Receipt, Referral, and/or Review Considerations):

• Generally has multiple receipt dates
• Usually remains active for up to three years
• Does not typically have set-aside funds
• May have special review criteria or review considerations
• Often used for ongoing programs or to highlight a specific area of research interest

2. RFA (Request for Applications):

• Usually has a single receipt date
• Is typically only active for a single round of applications
• Has set-aside funds committed to fund applications submitted in response to the RFA
• Often has more specific research goals or objectives
• May be used to jumpstart research in a particular area or to address a specific scientific problem

Key distinctions:

1. Duration: PARs are typically active for longer periods, while RFAs are usually one-time solicitations.

2. Funding: RFAs have dedicated funding, while PARs usually do not.

3. Competitiveness: RFAs are often more competitive due to the dedicated funding and specific focus.

4. Flexibility: PARs generally allow for a broader range of research topics within a given area, while RFAs are more targeted.

5. Frequency: PARs often have multiple submission dates, while RFAs typically have a single submission date.