FY 11 IRS Research Application

U.S. Department of Education

Office of PostSECONDARY EDUCATION

washington, d.c. 20006-8521

www.ed.gov/programs/iegpsirs/index.html

FY 2011

APPLICATION FOR GRANTS

UNDER THE INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND STUDIES PROGRAM: (01) RESEARCH, SURVEYS AND STUDIES

CFDA Number: 84.017A

OMB no. 1840-0795, Expiration Date:

DATED MATERIAL – OPEN IMMEDIATELY

CLOSING DATE:

Table of Contents

Dear Applicant Letter 1

Competition Highlights 3

Introduction & Overview 5

Supplemental Information 7

e-Application Submission Procedure 9

Application Transmittal Instructions 13

Federal Register Notice 15

Title VI – International Education Programs Sec. 601 and 605; Final Statute and Regulations.....................................................................................................................34

Sec. 601. International and Foreign Language Studies 35

Sec. 605. Research, Studies, Annual Reports 36

Part 655-International Education Programs 38

Part 660-The International Research and Studies Program 43

General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) 49

Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) 50

Instructions for Completing the IRS Application Package 51

Instructions for Application Narrative 53

Instructions for Standard Forms 56

Instructions for the SF-424 57

Instructions for Supplemental Information for SF 424 63

Instructions for ED 524 68

Assurances – Non-Construction Programs 73

Instructions for Budget Summary Form and Itemized Line Item Budget 75

Instructions for SF-LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities 77

Certification Regarding Lobbying 80

Instructions for General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) 81

Certification of Eligibility for Federal Assistance in Certain Programs 82

Instructions Summary Checklist for IRS Application 83

Paperwork Burden Statement 84

Survey Instructions on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants 85

DEAR

APPLICANT LETTER

Dear Applicant:

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant in the fiscal year (FY) 2011 competition for new awards under the International Research and Studies (IRS) program. The IRS program provides grants to conduct research and studies to improve and strengthen instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields.

In the FY 2011 competition, there are two competitive preference priorities for this program. The U.S. Department of Education (Department) strongly encourages all applicants to address the relevant competitive preference priorities. Competitive preference priority one is applicable for instructional materials, and competitive preference priority two is applicable for research, surveys and studies. For additional information about the competitive preference priorities, refer to the Federal Register Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards for FY 2011.

Also, in this competition, the Department requires applicants to submit grant applications using e-Application, an Internet-based electronic system. A detailed description of this Internet-based system is included in this application package. We urge you to acquaint yourself with e-Application early. E-Application is accessible through the Department’s e-Grants Web site at:

http://e-grants.ed.gov

We also urge you to consider the following extremely important administrative factors if you are planning to apply for this program:

1. We strongly encourage you to register in e-Application early to get acquainted with the system.

2. We strongly recommend that you submit your application 2-3 days prior to the closing date. The time it takes to upload an application will vary depending on your application and the speed of your Internet connection. The application submission process must be complete prior to the deadline for transmittal of applications.

After you electronically submit your application, you will receive a PR/Award number on-screen and via e-mail. The PR/Award number is unique to your application.

Information about the IRS program is accessible on the International Education Programs Service Web site at:

http://www.ed.gov/programs/iegpsirs/index.html

The Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards published in the Federal Register is the official document describing the requirements for submitting an IRS grant application. You should not rely upon any information that is inconsistent with the guidance contained in the official document. If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact Beth MacRae at [email protected] or by phone at (202) 502-7596.

We encourage applicants to review the “Competition Highlights” found in the application package for an overview of important items.

Finally, I would like to share with you the importance of ensuring that your application includes a strong evaluation plan. The peer reviewers will be instructed to look closely at the each application's plan of evaluation. Applicants must clearly state their individual project goals and the performance indicators for the project. The evaluation plan should include clear information about the methodology that will be employed, the validity of that methodology, and the appropriate controls which will be included in the evaluation plan. The evaluation plan should also include a description of the strategies that will be utilized to ensure that the evaluation plan will be independent in nature and led by an individual or entity other than the project director or material developers. The evaluation plan should follow the development of the project and provide benchmarks for the measurement of progress throughout the grant award period. The evaluation should also, where appropriate, attempt to link program outcomes to specific activities or materials. You should respond to all aspects of the question in the Technical Review Form of this application regarding the development of your evaluation activity.

Thank you for your interest in the International Research and Studies program.

Sincerely,

Alan J. Schiff

Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary

Higher Education Programs

COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS

COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS

1. IRS applications submitted for FY 2011 must be submitted electronically using e-Application. You are urged to acquaint yourself with the requirements of e-Application early. A more thorough discussion is included later in this application package. E-Application is accessible through its portal page at:

http://e-grants.ed.gov

2. In the FY 2011 competition, the Department is particularly interested in applications that meet the following program priorities:

Competitive Preference Priorities (2):

Competitive Preference Priority 1--Instructional Materials Applications

TO BE ANNOUNCED

Competitive Preference Priority 2 -- Research, Surveys and Studies Applications

TO BE ANNOUNCED

Responding to a competitive preference priority in your application is worth up to an additional five points. Applicants are expected to address only one competitive preference priority in each application, but regardless of how many priorities are addressed, no more than five points total can be awarded to a single application.

Please note that these priorities are explained in detail in the Closing Date Notice contained in this application package. You are urged to fully review the Closing Date Notice carefully before preparing your application.

3. The Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA) reauthorized the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) and added the following three activities under the International Research and Studies Program:

• Evaluation of the extent to which programs assisted under Title VI of the HEA reflect diverse views and generate debate on world regions and international affairs, as described in the grantee’s application.

• The systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of data that contribute to achieving the purposes of Part A, Title VI of the HEA.

• Support for programs or activities to make data collected, analyzed, or disseminated under Section 605 of Title VI of the HEA publicly available and easy to understand.

4. The project abstract is limited to one page, single - spaced. The abstract should include information about the proposed project, the project methodology and the final product of the grant. The abstract must be uploaded into the ED Abstract section under the Project Narrative heading in e-Application.

5. Please note that you must submit your application by 4:30:00 p.m. (Washington, D.C. time) on or before the application deadline date. Late applications will not be accepted. We suggest that you submit your application several days before the deadline. The Department is required to enforce the established deadline to ensure fairness to all applicants. No changes or additions to an application will be accepted after the deadline date and time.

Please note that applicants are responsible for ensuring that applications are submitted through the correct program schedule number. Applications for Research, Surveys and Studies must be submitted through 84.017A-(1), and Instructional Materials through 84.017A-(3). Please make a note of the program schedule number before submitting your application.

6. Electronic submission of applications is required; therefore, you must submit an electronic application unless you follow the procedures outlined in the Federal Register notice inviting applications for new awards for FY 2011 and qualify for one of the exceptions to the electronic submission requirement.

7. All applicants are required to adhere to the 30-page limit for the Application Narrative portion of the application. The Federal Register notice contains the specific standards for preparing the Application Narrative.

8. All attachments must be in .DOC, .RTF, or .PDF format. Other types of files will not be accepted.

For help with e-Application, please go to http://e-grants.ed.gov and follow the directions for e-Application. Also, refer to the “E-Application Submission Procedure” found on page nine of this application booklet.

You are reminded that the document published in the Federal Register is the official document, and that you should not rely upon any information that is inconsistent with the guidelines contained within the official document.

INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION

INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND STUDIES PROGRAM

AUTHORIZATION

Title VI, Part A, sections 601 and 605 of the Higher Education Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA) as amended by the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA).

PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 82, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99. The regulations for this program in 34 CFR parts 655 and 660.

PURPOSE

To improve and strengthen instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Public and private agencies, organizations, institutions, and individuals.

ACTIVITIES FUNDED UNDER THIS PROGRAM

Research and studies that contribute to achieving the purpose of the legislation. Such research and studies may include:

ACTIVITIES FUNDED UNDER THIS PROGRAM

An applicant may apply for funds to carry out any of the following types of activities:

(a) Studies and surveys to determine the need for increased or improved instruction in--

(1) Modern foreign languages; and

(2) Area studies and other international fields needed to provide full understanding of the places in which those languages are commonly used.

(b) Research and studies--

(1) On more effective methods of instruction and achieving competency in modern foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields;

(2) To evaluate competency in those foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields; or

(3) On the application of performance tests and standards across all areas of foreign language instruction and classroom use.

(c) The development and publication of specialized materials--

(1) For use by students and teachers of modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields; and

(2) For use in--

(i) Providing such instruction and evaluation; or

(ii) Training individuals to provide such instruction and evaluation.

(d) Research, surveys, studies, or the development of instructional materials that serve to enhance international understanding.

(e) Other research or material development projects that further the purposes of the International Education Program authorized by Part A of Title VI of the (HEA.

(f) Studies and surveys to assess the use of graduates of programs supported under Title VI of the HEA by governmental, educational, and private-sector organizations, and other studies assessing the outcomes and effectiveness of supported programs.

(g) Comparative studies of the effectiveness of strategies to provide international capabilities at institutions of higher education.

(h) Evaluations of the extent to which programs assisted under Title VI of the HEA that address national needs would not otherwise be offered.

(i) Studies and surveys of the uses of technology in foreign language, area studies, and international studies programs.

(j) Studies and evaluations of effective practices in the dissemination of international information, materials, research, teaching strategies, and testing techniques through the education community, including elementary and secondary schools.

(k) Evaluations of the extent to which programs assisted under Title VI of the HEA reflect diverse perspectives and a wide range of views and generate debate on world regions and international affairs, as described in the grantee’s application.

(l) Systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of data that contribute to achieving the purposes of Title VI, Part A of the HEA.

(m) Support for programs or activities to make data collected, analyzed, or disseminated under Title VI, Part A of the HEA publicly available and easy to understand.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The following information supplements the information provided in the “Dear Applicant” letter and the Notice.

1. Estimated Funding and Project Period

   • Estimated Available Funds: $2,350,000.

   • Estimated Range of Awards: $50,000 - $225,000 per year.

   • Estimated Average Size of Awards: $170,000.

   • Estimated Number of Awards: 14.

   • Project Period for New Awards: Up to 36 months.

The U.S. Department of Education is not bound by these estimates.

2. Applicant Funding

The Department is often unable to award the full amount of funds requested.

3. Additional Attachments to Applications

Please limit additional attachments to the following:

1. Curricula vitae of key personnel and other persons who are vital to the proposed project.

2. Position Descriptions

3. Letters of Support

4. Project Timeline

NOTE: These additional attachments must be attached to the respective titles in the Project Narrative section of e-Application. Each additional attachment has a respective screen in e-Application.

4. Recommended Start Date

The Department recommends a start date of August 15, 2011.

5. Evaluation of Applicants for Awards

A three-member panel of independent reviewers evaluates each application. Each reviewer assigns points for each selection criterion and prepares evaluation comments.

6. Selection Criteria

The selection criteria in 34 CFR sections 655.31, 660.31, 660.32, and 660.33 are used to evaluate applications. The selection criteria and maximum possible points are included in the Notice.

7. Notice to Successful Applicants

The Department’s Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs will inform the Congress regarding applications approved for new IRS grants. Successful applicants will receive award notices by mail shortly after the Congress is notified. No funding information will be released before the Congress is notified.

8. Notice to Unsuccessful Applicants

Unsuccessful applicants will be notified in writing following the notice to successful applicants.

9. Annual Performance Report Requirements

If you receive a FY 2011 new grant award, you will be required to submit annual and final performance reports during the entire funding cycle using the International Resource Information System (IRIS). This online system collects narratives and data about funded projects, to enable program officers to determine if a grantee is making substantial progress toward meeting approved project objectives. If you wish to view the performance report currently required, visit the International Education Programs Service (IEPS) Web site at http://www.ed.gov/programs/iegpsirs/performance.html. Please be advised that the report is for informational purposes only, and does not reflect the actual reporting instrument that you will use, should you receive a FY 2011 grant award.

10. Contact Information.

For IRS program-related questions and assistance, please contact:

Program Officer: Beth MacRae

Address: International Education Programs Service

U.S. Department of Education

1990 K Street, N.W., Room 6088

Washington, D.C. 20006-8521

Telephone: (202) 502-7596

Fax: (202) 502-7859

E-mail Address: [email protected]

For E-Application-related questions and assistance, please contact:

Support Desk: [email protected]

Telephone: 1-888-336-8930

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Eastern Time

Grants.gov Submission Procedures and Tips for Applicants

IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ FIRST

U.S. Department of Education

e-Application Submission Procedures and Tips for Applicants

http://e-grants.ed.gov

To facilitate your use of e-Application, this document includes important application preparation and submission procedures you need to be aware of to ensure your application is received in a timely manner and accepted by the Department of Education. Please read and follow these step-by-step directions to create and submit your application.

ATTENTION

Applicants using the Department of Education's e-Application system will need to register first to access an application package. Forms in an application package are completed on line and narratives are uploaded while logged into the system. Therefore, allow sufficient time to complete your application before the closing date. If you have not used e-Application in the past, you may want to walk through the Demo available on the e-Application homepage. If you encounter difficulties, you may also contact the e-Grants helpdesk on 1-888-336-8930. The following are steps you should follow to successfully complete an application with e-Application.

Step 1 – Determine if your program is accepting electronic applications. The Federal Register Notice of each program will indicate whether the program is accepting e-Applications as part of the Department's e-Application program. Here is a link to the Department's Federal Register notices: http://www.ed.gov/news/fedregister/announce/index.html. Additional information on the Department's of Education's grant programs can be found at http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocfo/grants/grants.html.

Step 2 – Register in e-Application to access the application package. If you are a new user, you will need to register to use e-Application. From the e-Grants Portal Page http://e-grants.ed.gov/, click on the continue button and click the register button on the right side of the next page. Select the e-Application module and click the next button. Please provide the requested information. Your e-Grants password will be sent to the e-mail address you provide. Once you receive the e-mail, enter your username and password and click the login button.

If you already have a username and password for e-Grants, use them to login. If you have access to more than one e-Grants module, you will be directed to select which module you wish to enter. Keep in mind that this username and password will be used for all e-Grants modules. In order to update your registration for additional e-Grants modules, click the appropriate tab on the top of the screen and provide the requested information.

Note the following browser compatibility problems. The site is viewed best in Internet Explorer 5. We currently support IE 5, Netscape 6.2, Firefox 2.2 (along with later versions of IE, Netscape and Firefox ). Please make sure that you have Cookies and JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Step 3 - Add Application Package to your Start Page. From your Start Page, click on the "Add" button to see the list of application packages. Click on a specific package link on the List of Application Packages to apply. The package will now appear on your Start Page. From this point forward, you will access your unique application from your Start Page (not the Packages Page).

Step 4 - Begin the Application. Click on the underlined Application Package Title on your Start Page. This brings you to a page where you will see all of the application's forms and narratives listed as underlined links.

Step 5 - Fill out Forms. Enter a form by clicking on the underlined form title in order to enter data. Remember to click the "Save" button at the bottom of the form and check the "Form Completed" box for each form as you complete it.

Step 6 - Upload File(s) for Narrative Responses. Click on an underlined narrative form title for the e-Application. Enter the title of the document, and click on the "Browse" button to locate your file. Remember to click the "Save" button after you upload the document and check the "Form Completed" box when you finish uploading your file(s). Please note for file uploads, we accept .doc, .rtf, and .pdf files only. If you are using Word 2007, please save your document in a lower version of Word before uploading into e-Application.

Step 7 - Verify Information/Print Application. Verify your information is complete and correct on all required forms and narratives. You have the option to print each form at any time by clicking on the print/view icon next to the appropriate form. After submission of the forms and narratives, you have the option to print a complete e-Application package in PDF by clicking on the “Request Complete Package in PDF” on the e-Application PR/Award page. A second window will open informing you that your request has been received and that you will be notified via email once it is available. This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Once you receive the email, click on the link in the text of the message and enter your username and password in the new window. This will open the PDF file from which you can view/print the entire package. In addition, a blank complete package in PDF will be accessible from the package page in e-Application.

Step 8 - Submit your Application. Only authorized individuals for your organization can submit an application. Please check with your certifying official or sponsored research office before submission. Click on the "Ready to submit" button at the bottom of your application. Enter and verify the Authorizing Representative information. Click the "Submit" button. You will receive an e-mail to confirm that your application was received, and it will include a unique application number. Please print and keep this e-mail for your records. [Reminder: applications must be submitted before 4:30:00 pm, Washington, D.C. time, on the deadline date for applications. e-Application will not accept your application if you try to submit it after 4:30:00 p.m. on the deadline date.]

Step 9 - Fax the signed SF 424 Cover Page (or Program Specific Cover Page). Write your unique application number (received in step 8) on the upper right corner of your printed SF 424 Cover Page (or Program Specific Cover Page), and fax it to the Application Control Center (202) 245-6272 within 3 business days of submitting your e-Application.

NOTE: For more detailed information on submitting an e-Application, please see the User Guide. In addition, please try practicing with our e-Application Demo site by clicking on the Demo button found on the upper left corner of the e-Application Home Page. Both the User Guide and Demo can be found at http://e-grants.ed.gov.

Other Submission Tips

SUBMIT EARLY – We strongly recommend that you do not wait until the last day to submit your application. The time it takes to upload the narratives for your application will vary depending on a number of factors including the size of the files and the speed of your Internet connection. If you try to submit your application after 4:30:00 p.m. on the deadline date, the e-Application system will not accept it.

1) If electronic submission is optional and you have problems that you are unable to resolve before the deadline date and time for electronic applications, please follow the transmittal instructions for hard copy applications in the Federal Register notice and get a hard copy application postmarked by midnight on the deadline date.

If electronic submission is required, you must submit an electronic application before 4:30:00 p.m., unless you follow the procedures in the Federal Register notice and qualify for one of the exceptions to the electronic submission requirement and submit, no later than two weeks before the application deadline date, a written statement to the Department that you qualify for one of these exceptions. (See the Federal Register notice for detailed instructions.)

2) Dial-Up Internet Connections - When using a dial up connection to upload and submit your application, it can take significantly longer than when you are connected to the Internet with a high-speed connection, e.g. cable modem/DSL/T1. While times will vary depending upon the size of your application, it can take a few minutes to a few hours to complete your grant submission using a dial up connection. If you do not have access to a high-speed connection and electronic submission is required, you may want to consider following the instructions in the Federal Register notice to obtain an exception to the electronic submission requirement no later than two weeks before the application deadline date. (See the Federal Register notice for detailed instructions.)

Attaching Files – Additional Tips

Please note the following tips related to attaching files to your application:

1. Ensure that you only attach the Education approved file types detailed in the Federal Register application notice (.doc, .pdf or .rtf). If using Word 2007, save your file to a lower version of Word before uploading. Also, do not upload any password protected files to your application.

2. When attaching files, applicants should limit the size of their file names. Lengthy file names could result in difficulties with opening and processing your application. We recommend you keep your file names to less than 50 characters. In addition, applicants should avoid including special characters in their file names (for example, %, *, /, etc.) Both of these conditions (lengthy file names and/or special characters including in the file names) could result in difficulties opening and processing a submitted application.

3. Applicants should limit the size of their file attachments. Documents submitted that contain graphics and/or scanned material often greatly increase the size of the file attachments and can result in difficulties opening the files. Please note that each file attachment in e-Application has a file size limitation which is anywhere from 2 to 8 MB and the limitation will be indicated on the individual screen when you upload a file. For reference, however, the average discretionary grant application package totals 1 to 2 MB. Therefore, you may want to check the size of your attachments before uploading them into e-Application.

APPLICATION TRANSMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS

APPLICATION TRANSMITTAL INSTRUCTIONS

ATTENTION ELECTRONIC APPLICANTS: Please note that you must follow the Application Procedures as described in the Federal Register notice announcing the grant competition.

This program requires the electronic submission of applications; specific requirements and waiver instructions can be found in the Federal Register notice.

According to the instructions found in the Federal Register notice, those requesting and qualifying for an exception to the electronic submission requirement may submit an application by mail, commercial carrier or by hand delivery.

If you want to apply for a grant and be considered for funding, you must meet the following deadline requirements:

Applications Submitted Electronically

You must submit your grant application through the Internet using the software provided on the e-Grants Web site (http://e-grants.ed.gov/e-app/eaHome.asp) by 4:30:00 p.m. (Washington, D.C. time) on or before the deadline date.

If you submit your application through the Internet via the e-Grants Web site, you will receive an automatic acknowledgement when we receive your application.

For more information on using e-Application and e-Grants, please refer to the “Notice Inviting Applications” that was published in the Federal Register or visit http://e-grants.ed.gov/e-app/eaHome.asp.

Submission of Paper Applications by Mail:

If you submit your application in paper format by mail (through the U.S. Postal Service or a commercial carrier), you must mail the original and two copies of your application, on or before the application deadline date, to the Department at the following address:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.017A)

LBJ Basement Level 1

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4260

You must show proof of mailing consisting of one of the following:

(1) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark.

(2) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by the U.S. Postal Service.

(3) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial carrier.

(4) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.

If you mail your application through the U.S. Postal Service, we do not accept either of the following as proof of mailing:

(1) A private metered postmark.

(2) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service.

If your application is postmarked after the application deadline date, we will not consider your application.

Note: The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a dated postmark. Before relying on this method, you should check with your local post office.

Submission of Paper Applications by Hand Delivery:

If you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, you (or a courier service) may deliver your paper application to the Department by hand. You must deliver the original and two copies of your application by hand, on or before the application deadline date, to the Department at the following address:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.017A)

550 12th Street, SW.

Room 7041, Potomac Center Plaza

Washington, DC 20202-4260

The Application Control Center accepts hand deliveries daily between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30:00 p.m., Washington, DC time, except Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal holidays.

Note for Mail or Hand Delivery of Paper Applications: If you mail or hand deliver your application to the Department--

(1) You must indicate on the envelope and--if not provided by the Department--in Item 11 of the SF 424 the CFDA number, including suffix letter, if any, of the competition under which you are submitting your application; and

(2) The Application Control Center will mail to you a notification of receipt of your grant application. If you do not receive this notification within 15 business days from the application deadline date, you should call the U.S. Department of Education Application Control Center at (202) 245-6288.

EDERAL REGISTER NOTICE

4000-01-U

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Office of Postsecondary Education

Overview Information

International Research and Studies (IRS) Program

Notice inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year (FY) 2011.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Numbers: 84.017A-1 and 84.017A-3.

Dates:

Applications Available: [INSERT DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER].

Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: [INSERT DATE 60 DAYS AFTER DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER].

Full Text of Announcement

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Purpose of Program: The IRS Program provides grants to conduct research and studies to improve and strengthen instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields.

Priorities: In accordance with 34 CFR 75.105(b)(2)(ii), these priorities are from the regulations for this program (34 CFR 660.10 and 660.34).

Competitive Preference Priorities: For FY 2011, these priorities are competitive preference priorities. Under 34 CFR 75.105(c)(2)(i), we award an additional five points to an application that meets one or more of these priorities.

These priorities are:

Competitive Preference Priority 1--Instructional Materials Applications.

TO BE ANNOUNCED

Competitive Preference Priority 2--Research, Surveys, and Studies Applications.

TO BE ANNOUNCED

Note: You will receive an additional five points for meeting a competitive preference priority in your application. Applicants are expected to address only one competitive preference priority in each application, but regardless of how many priorities are addressed, no more than five points in total can be awarded to a single application.

Program Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125.

Applicable Regulations: (a) The Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 82, 84, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99. (b) The regulations for this program in 34 CFR parts 655 and 660.

Note: The regulations in 34 CFR part 86 apply to institutions of higher education only.

Areas of National Need: In accordance with section 601(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), 20 U.S.C. 1121(c), the Secretary has consulted with and received recommendations regarding national need for expertise in foreign languages and world regions from the head officials of a wide range of Federal agencies. The Secretary has taken these recommendations into account, and a list of foreign languages and world regions identified by the Secretary as areas of national need may be found on links on the following Web sites:

www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/policy.html

www.ed.gov/programs/iegpsirs/legislation.html

Also included on these Web sites and links are the specific recommendations the Secretary received from Federal agencies.

II. Award Information

Type of Award: Discretionary grants.

Estimated Available Funds: The Administration has requested $108,360,000 for the International Education and Foreign Language Studies: Domestic Programs for FY 2010, of which we intend to use an estimated $2,350,000 for awards under these competitions (84.017A-1 and 84.017A-3). The actual level of funding, if any, depends on final congressional action. However, we are inviting applications to allow enough time to complete the grant process if Congress appropriates funds for this program.

Estimated Range of Awards: $50,000-$225,000 per year.

Estimated Average Size of Awards: $170,000.

Estimated Number of Awards: 14.

Note: The Department is not bound by any estimates in this notice.

Project Period: Up to 36 months.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Applicants: Public and private agencies, organizations, institutions, and individuals.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: This program does not require cost sharing or matching.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Address to Request Application Package: Carla White, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, NW., room 6085, Washington, DC 20006-8521. Telephone: (202) 502-7631; or by e-mail: [email protected].

If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), call the Federal Relay Service (FRS), toll free, at 1-800-877-8339.

Individuals with disabilities can obtain a copy of the application package in an accessible format (e.g., braille, large print, audiotape, or computer diskette) by contacting the program contact person listed in this section.

2. Content and Form of Application Submission: Requirements concerning the content of an application, together with the forms you must submit, are in the application package for this program. The IRS Program has two application packages. Research, surveys, and studies applicants must use the application package for 84.017A-1. Instructional materials applicants must use the application package for 84.017A-3.

Page Limit: The application narrative is where you, the applicant, address the selection criteria that reviewers use to evaluate your application. You must limit the application narrative [Part III] to the equivalent of no more than 30 pages, using the following standards:

• A “page” is 8.5” x 11”, on one side only, with 1” margins at the top, bottom, and both sides. Page numbers and an identifier may be outside of the 1” margin.

• Double space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) all text in the application narrative, except titles, headings, footnotes, quotations, references, captions, and all text in charts, tables, figures, and graphs. These items may be single-spaced. Charts, tables, figures, and graphs in the application narrative count toward the page limit.

• Use a font that is either 12 point or larger or no smaller than 10 pitch (characters per inch). However, you may use a 10 point font in charts, tables, figures, and graphs.

• Use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, Courier New, or Arial. An application submitted in any other font (including Times Roman and Arial Narrow) will not be accepted.

The page limit does not apply to Part I, the Application for Federal Assistance face sheet (SF 424); the supplemental information form required by the Department of Education; Part II, the budget information summary form (ED Form 524); or Part IV, the assurances and certifications. The page limit also does not apply to a table of contents. If you include any additional attachments or appendices not specifically requested in the application package, these items will be counted as part of your application narrative [Part III] for purposes of the page limit requirement. You must include your complete response to the selection criteria in the application narrative.

We will reject your application if you exceed the page limit.

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Applications Available: [INSERT DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER].

Deadline for Transmittal of Applications: [INSERT DATE 60 DAYS AFTER DATE OF PUBLICATION IN THE FEDERAL REGISTER].

Applications for grants under this program must be submitted electronically using the Electronic Grant Application System (e-Application) accessible through the Department’s e-Grants site. For information (including dates and times) about how to submit your application electronically, or in paper format by mail or hand delivery if you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, please refer to section IV. 6. Other Submission Requirements of this notice.

We do not consider an application that does not comply with the deadline requirements.

Individuals with disabilities who need an accommodation or auxiliary aid in connection with the application process should contact the person listed under For Further Information Contact in section VII of this notice. If the Department provides an accommodation or auxiliary aid to an individual with a disability in connection with the application process, the individual’s application remains subject to all other requirements and limitations in this notice.

4. Intergovernmental Review: This program is not subject to Executive Order 12372 and the regulations in 34 CFR part 79.

5. Funding Restrictions: We reference regulations outlining funding restrictions in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice.

6. Other Submission Requirements: Applications for grants under this program must be submitted electronically unless you qualify for an exception to this requirement in accordance with the instructions in this section.

a. Electronic Submission of Applications.

Applications for grants under the IRS Program, CFDA number 84.017A, must be submitted electronically using e-Application, accessible through the Department’s e-Grants Web site at: http://e-grants.ed.gov.

We will reject your application if you submit it in paper format unless, as described elsewhere in this section, you qualify for one of the exceptions to the electronic submission requirement and submit, no later than two weeks before the application deadline date, a written statement to the Department that you qualify for one of these exceptions. Further information regarding calculation of the date that is two weeks before the application deadline date is provided later in this section under Exception to Electronic Submission Requirement.

While completing your electronic application, you will be entering data online that will be saved into a database. You may not e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.

Please note the following:

• You must complete the electronic submission of your grant application by 4:30:00 p.m., Washington, DC time, on the application deadline date. E-Application will not accept an application for this program after 4:30:00 p.m., Washington, DC time, on the application deadline date. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the application process.

• The hours of operation of the e-Grants Web site are 6:00 a.m. Monday until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday; and 6:00 a.m. Thursday until 8:00 p.m. Sunday, Washington, DC time. Please note that, because of maintenance, the system is unavailable between 8:00 p.m. on Sundays and 6:00 a.m. on Mondays, and between 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and 6:00 a.m. on Thursdays, Washington, DC time. Any modifications to these hours are posted on the e-Grants Web site.

• You will not receive additional point value because you submit your application in electronic format, nor will we penalize you if you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, as described elsewhere in this section, and submit your application in paper format.

• You must submit all documents electronically, including all information you typically provide on the following forms: the Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424), the Department of Education Supplemental Information for SF 424, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs (ED 524), and all necessary assurances and certifications. You must attach any narrative sections of your application as files in a .DOC (document), .RTF (rich text), or .PDF (Portable Document) format. If you upload a file type other than the three file types specified in this paragraph or submit a password protected file, we will not review that material.

• Your electronic application must comply with any page limit requirements described in this notice.

• Prior to submitting your electronic application, you may wish to print a copy of it for your records.

• After you electronically submit your application, you will receive an automatic acknowledgment that will include a PR/Award number (an identifying number unique to your application).

• Within three working days after submitting your electronic application, fax a signed copy of the SF 424 to the Application Control Center after following these steps:

(1) Print SF 424 from e-Application.

(2) The applicant’s Authorizing Representative must sign this form.

(3) Place the PR/Award number in the upper right hand corner of the hard-copy signature page of the SF 424.

(4) Fax the signed SF 424 to the Application Control Center at (202) 245-6272.

• We may request that you provide us original signatures on other forms at a later date.

Application Deadline Date Extension in Case of e-Application Unavailability: If you are prevented from electronically submitting your application on the application deadline date because e-Application is unavailable, we will grant you an extension of one business day to enable you to transmit your application electronically, by mail, or by hand delivery. We will grant this extension if--

(1) You are a registered user of e-Application and you have initiated an electronic application for this competition; and

(2) (a) E-Application is unavailable for 60 minutes or more between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Washington, DC time, on the application deadline date; or

(b) E-Application is unavailable for any period of time between 3:30 p.m. and 4:30:00 p.m., Washington, DC time, on the application deadline date.

We must acknowledge and confirm these periods of unavailability before granting you an extension. To request this extension or to confirm our acknowledgment of any system unavailability, you may contact either (1) the person listed elsewhere in this notice under For Further Information Contact (see VII. Agency Contact) or (2) the e-Grants help desk at 1-888-336-8930. If e-Application is unavailable due to technical problems with the system and, therefore, the application deadline is extended, an e-mail will be sent to all registered users who have initiated an e-Application. Extensions referred to in this section apply only to the unavailability of e-Application.

Exception to Electronic Submission Requirement: You qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, and may submit your application in paper format, if you are unable to submit an application through e-Application because--

• You do not have access to the Internet; or

• You do not have the capacity to upload large documents to e-Application;

and

• No later than two weeks before the application deadline date (14 calendar days or, if the fourteenth calendar day before the application deadline date falls on a Federal holiday, the next business day following the Federal holiday), you mail or fax a written statement to the Department, explaining which of the two grounds for an exception prevents you from using the Internet to submit your application. If you mail your written statement to the Department, it must be postmarked no later than two weeks before the application deadline date. If you fax your written statement to the Department, we must receive the faxed statement no later than two weeks before the application deadline date.

Address and mail or fax your statement to: Carla White, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, NW., room 6085, Washington, DC 20006-8521. FAX: (202) 502-7860.

Your paper application must be submitted in accordance with the mail or hand delivery instructions described in this notice.

b. Submission of Paper Applications by Mail.

If you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, you may mail (through the U.S. Postal Service or a commercial carrier) your application to the Department. You must mail the original and two copies of your application, on or before the application deadline date, to the Department at the following address:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.017A)

LBJ Basement Level 1

400 Maryland Avenue, SW.

Washington, DC 20202-4260

You must show proof of mailing consisting of one of the following:

(1) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark.

(2) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by the U.S. Postal Service.

(3) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial carrier.

(4) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education.

If you mail your application through the U.S. Postal Service, we do not accept either of the following as proof of mailing:

(1) A private metered postmark.

(2) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service.

If your application is postmarked after the application deadline date, we will not consider your application.

Note: The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a dated postmark. Before relying on this method, you should check with your local post office.

c. Submission of Paper Applications by Hand Delivery.

If you qualify for an exception to the electronic submission requirement, you (or a courier service) may deliver your paper application to the Department by hand. You must deliver the original and two copies of your application, by hand, on or before the application deadline date, to the Department at the following address:

U.S. Department of Education

Application Control Center

Attention: (CFDA Number 84.017A)

550 12th Street, SW.

Room 7041, Potomac Center Plaza

Washington, DC 20202-4260

The Application Control Center accepts hand deliveries daily between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30:00 p.m., Washington, DC time, except Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal holidays.

Note for Mail or Hand Delivery of Paper Applications: If you mail or hand deliver your application to the Department--

(1) You must indicate on the envelope and--if not provided by the Department--in Item 11 of the SF 424 the CFDA number, including suffix letter, if any, of the competition under which you are submitting your application; and

(2) The Application Control Center will mail to you a notification of receipt of your grant application. If you do not receive this grant notification within 15 business days from the application deadline date, you should call the U.S. Department of Education Application Control Center at (202) 245-6288.

V. Application Review Information

1. General: Applications are divided into two groups, instructional materials (CFDA 84.017A-3) and research, surveys, and studies (CFDA 84.017A-1). Review panels will be assigned to read either instructional materials applications or research, surveys, and studies applications. The number of panels for each category will depend on the number of applications received. Each panel reviews, scores, and ranks its applications separately from the applications assigned to other panels. All instructional materials applications will be ranked together from the highest to the lowest score for funding purposes; and, all research, surveys, and studies applications will be ranked together from the highest to the lowest score for funding purposes.

2. Selection Criteria: The selection criteria for this program are from 34 CFR 655.31, 660.31, 660.32, and 660.33 and are as follows:

For instructional materials--

Need for the project (10 points); Potential for the use of materials in other programs (5 points); Account of related materials (10 points); Likelihood of achieving results (10 points); Expected contribution to other programs (5 points); Plan of operation (10 points); Quality of key personnel (5 points); Budget and cost effectiveness (5 points); Evaluation plan (15 points); Adequacy of resources (5 points); Description of final form of materials (5 points); and Provisions for pretesting and revision (15 points).

For research, surveys and studies--

Need for the project (10 points); Usefulness of expected results (10 points); Development of new knowledge (10 points); Formulation of problems and knowledge of related research (10 points); Specificity of statement of procedures (5 points); Adequacy of methodology and scope of project (10 points); Plan of operation (10 points); Quality of key personnel (10 points); Budget and cost effectiveness (5 points); Evaluation plan (15 points); and Adequacy of resources (5 points).

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices: If your application is successful, we notify your U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators and send you a Grant Award Notification (GAN). We may notify you informally, also.

If your application is not evaluated or not selected for funding, we notify you.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: We identify administrative and national policy requirements in the application package and reference these and other requirements in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice.

We reference the regulations outlining the terms and conditions of an award in the Applicable Regulations section of this notice and include these and other specific conditions in the GAN. The GAN also incorporates your approved application as part of your binding commitments under the grant.

3. Reporting: At the end of your project period, you must submit a final performance report, including financial information, as directed by the Secretary. If you receive a multi-year award, you must submit an annual performance report that provides the most current performance and financial expenditure information as directed by the Secretary under 34 CFR 75.118. Grantees are required to use the electronic data instrument International Resource Information System (IRIS), to complete the final report. Electronically formatted instructional materials such as CDs, DVDs, videos, computer diskettes and books produced by the grantee as part of the grant approved activities are also acceptable as final reports. The Secretary may also require more frequent performance reports under 34 CFR 75.720(c). For specific requirements on reporting, please go to www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/appforms/appforms.html.

4. Performance Measures: The objective for the IRS Program is to support surveys, studies, and the development of instructional materials to improve and strengthen instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields. The Department will use the following measures to evaluate the success of the IRS Program:

Performance Measure 1: Percentage of IRS Program projects judged to be successful by the program officer, based on a review of information provided in annual performance reports.

Performance Measure 2: Number of outreach activities that are adopted or disseminated within a year, divided by the total number of IRS outreach activities conducted in the current reporting period.

Efficiency Measure: Cost per high-quality, successfully completed IRS project.

The information provided by grantees in their performance reports submitted via IRIS will be the source of data for these measures. Reporting screens can be viewed at: http://iris.ed.gov/iris/pdfs/IRS.pdf.

VII. Agency Contact

For Further Information Contact: Beth MacRae, International Education Programs Service, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, NW., room 6088, Washington, DC 20006-8521. Telephone: (202) 502-7596; or by e-mail: [email protected].

If you use a TDD, call the FRS, toll free, at 1-800-877-8339.

VIII. Other Information

Accessible Format: Individuals with disabilities can obtain this document and a copy of the application package in an accessible format (e.g., braille, large print, audiotape, or computer diskette) on request to the program contact person listed under For Further Information Contact in section VII of this notice.

Electronic Access to This Document: You can view this document, as well as all other documents of this Department published in the Federal Register, in text or Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) on the Internet at the following site: www.ed.gov/news/fedregister.

To use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free at this site.

Note: The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: www.gpoaccess.gov/nara/index.html.

Delegation of Authority: The Secretary of Education has delegated authority to Daniel T. Madzelan, Director, Forecasting and Policy Analysis for the Office of Postsecondary Education, to perform the functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education.

Dated:

_________________________________

Daniel T. Madzelan,

Director,

Forecasting and Policy Analysis.

PUBLIC LAW 110–315—AUG. 14, 2008

TITLE VI—INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SEC. 601. FINDINGS; PURPOSES; CONSULTATION; SURVEY.

Section 601 (20 U.S.C. 1121) is amended—

(1) in the section heading, by striking ‘‘AND PURPOSES’’ and inserting ‘‘; PURPOSES; CONSULTATION; SURVEY’’;

(2) in subsection (a)(3), by striking ‘‘post-Cold War’’;

(3) in subsection (b)(1)(D), by inserting ‘‘, including through linkages with overseas institutions’’ before the semicolon; and

(4) by adding at the end the following:

‘‘(c) CONSULTATION.—

‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall, prior to requesting applications for funding under this title during each grant cycle, consult with and receive recommendations regarding national need for expertise in foreign languages and world regions from the head officials of a wide range of Federal agencies.

‘‘(2) CONSIDERING RECOMMENDATIONS; PROVIDING INFORMATION.—The Secretary—

‘‘(A) may take into account the recommendations described in paragraph (1); and

‘‘(B) shall—

‘‘(i) provide information collected under paragraph (1) when requesting applications for funding under this title; and

“(ii) make available to applicants a list of areas identified as areas of national need.

‘‘(d) SURVEY.—The Secretary shall assist grantees in developing a survey to administer to students who have completed programs under this title to determine postgraduate employment, education, or training. All grantees, where applicable, shall administer such survey once every two years and report survey results to the Secretary.’’.

SEC. 605. RESEARCH; STUDIES.

Section 605(a) (20 U.S.C. 1125(a)) is amended--

(1) in paragraph (8), by striking ``and'' after the semicolon;

(2) in paragraph (9), by striking the period and inserting a semicolon; and

(3) by adding at the end the following:

``(10) evaluation of the extent to which programs assisted under this title reflect diverse perspectives and a wide range of views and generate debate on world regions and international affairs, as described in the grantee's application;

``(11) the systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of data that contribute to achieving the purposes of this part; and

``(12) support for programs or activities to make data collected, analyzed, or disseminated under this section publicly available and easy to understand.''.

PUBLIC LAW 89-329—HIGHER EDUCATION ACT OF 1965, AS AMENDED (HEA)

TITLE VI – INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SEC. 601. INTERNATIONAL AND FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDIES.

Part A of title VI (20 U.S.C. 1121 et seq.) is amended to read as follows:

PART A--INTERNATIONAL AND FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDIES

SEC. 601. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.

(a) FINDINGS- Congress finds as follows:

(1) The security, stability, and economic vitality of the United States in a complex global era depend upon American experts in and citizens knowledgeable about world regions, foreign languages, and international affairs, as well as upon a strong research base in these areas.

(2) Advances in communications technology and the growth of regional and global problems make knowledge of other countries and the ability to communicate in other languages more essential to the promotion of mutual understanding and cooperation among nations and their peoples.

(3) Dramatic post-Cold War changes in the world's geopolitical and economic landscapes are creating needs for American expertise and knowledge about a greater diversity of less commonly taught foreign languages and nations of the world.

(4) Systematic efforts are necessary to enhance the capacity of institutions of higher education in the United States for--

(A) producing graduates with international and foreign language expertise and knowledge; and

(B) research regarding such expertise and knowledge.

(5) Cooperative efforts among the Federal Government, institutions of higher education, and the private sector are necessary to promote the generation and dissemination of information about world regions, foreign languages, and international affairs throughout education, government, business, civic, and nonprofit sectors in the United States.

(b) PURPOSES- The purposes of this part are--

(1)(A) to support centers, programs, and fellowships in institutions of higher education in the United States for producing increased numbers of trained personnel and research in foreign languages, area studies, and other international studies;

(B) to develop a pool of international experts to meet national needs;

(C) to develop and validate specialized materials and techniques for foreign language acquisition and fluency, emphasizing (but not limited to) the less commonly taught languages;

(D) to promote access to research and training overseas; and

(E) to advance the internationalization of a variety of disciplines throughout undergraduate and graduate education;

(2) to support cooperative efforts promoting access to and the dissemination of international and foreign language knowledge, teaching materials, and research, throughout education, government, business, civic, and nonprofit sectors in the United States, through the use of advanced technologies; and

(3) to coordinate the programs of the Federal Government in the areas of foreign language, area studies, and other international studies, including professional international affairs education and research.

SEC. 605. RESEARCH; STUDIES; ANNUAL REPORT

(a) AUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES- The Secretary may, directly or through grants or contracts, conduct research and studies that contribute to achieving the purposes of this part. Such research and studies may include-

(1) studies and surveys to determine needs for increased or improved instruction in foreign language, area studies, or other international fields, including the demand for foreign language, area, and other international specialists in government, education, and the private sector;

(2) studies and surveys to assess the utilization of graduates of programs supported under this title by governmental, educational, and private sector organizations and other studies assessing the outcomes and effectiveness of programs so supported;

(3) evaluation of the extent to which programs assisted under this title that address national needs would not otherwise be offered;

(4) comparative studies of the effectiveness of strategies to provide international capabilities at institutions of higher education;

(5) research on more effective methods of providing instruction and achieving competency in foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields;

(6) the development and publication of specialized materials for use in foreign language, area studies, and other international fields, or for training foreign language, area, and other international specialists;

(7) studies and surveys of the uses of technology in foreign language, area studies, and international studies programs;

(8) studies and evaluations of effective practices in the dissemination of international information, materials, research, teaching strategies, and testing techniques throughout the education community, including elementary and secondary schools; and

(9) the application of performance tests and standards across all areas of foreign language instruction and classroom use.

(b) ANNUAL REPORT- The Secretary shall prepare, publish, and announce an annual report listing the books and research materials produced with assistance under this section.

Title 34: Education

Revised as of September 25, 2009

PART 655—INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS—GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subpart A—General

§ 655.1   Which programs do these regulations govern?
§ 655.3   What regulations apply to the International Education Programs?
§ 655.4   What definitions apply to the International Education Programs?

Subpart B—What Kinds of Projects Does the Secretary Assist?

§ 655.10   What kinds of projects does the Secretary assist?

Subpart C [Reserved]

Subpart D—How Does the Secretary Make a Grant?

§ 655.30   How does the Secretary evaluate an application?
§ 655.31   What general selection criteria does the Secretary use?
§ 655.32   What additional factors does the Secretary consider in making grant awards?

Authority:   20 U.S.C 1121–1130b, unless otherwise noted.

Source:   47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—General

§ 655.1   Which programs do these regulations govern?

The regulations in this part govern the administration of the following programs in international education:

(a) The National Resource Centers Program for Foreign Language and Area Studies or Foreign Language and International Studies (section 602 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended);

(b) The Language Resource Centers Program (section 603);

(c) The Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Program (section 604);

(d) The International Research and Studies Program (section 605); and

(e) The Business and International Education Program (section 613).

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1130b)

[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993; 64 FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999]

§ 655.3   What regulations apply to the International Education Programs?

The following regulations apply to the International Education Programs:

(a) The Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) as follows:

(1) 34 CFR part 74 (Administration of Grants to Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Nonprofit Organizations).

(2) 34 CFR part 75 (Direct Grant Programs).

(3) 34 CFR part 77 (Definitions that Apply to Department Regulations).

(4) 34 CFR part 79 (Intergovernmental Review of Department of Education Programs and Activities), except that part 79 does not apply to 34 CFR parts 660, 669, and 671.

(5) 34 CFR part 82 (New Restrictions on Lobbying).

(6) 34 CFR part 85 (Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants)).

(7) 34 CFR part 86 (Drug-Free Schools and Campuses).

(b) The regulations in this part 655; and

(c) As appropriate, the regulations in—

(1) 34 CFR part 656 (National Resource Centers Program for Foreign Language and Area Studies or Foreign Language and International Studies);

(2) 34 CFR part 657 (Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships Program);

(3) 34 CFR part 658 (Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Language Program);

(4) 34 CFR part 660 (International Research and Studies Program);

(5) 34 CFR part 661 (Business and International Education Program); and

(6) 34 CFR part 669 (Language Resource Centers Program).

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1127; 1221e–3)

[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993; 64 FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999]

§ 655.4   What definitions apply to the International Education Programs?

(a) Definitions in EDGAR. The following terms used in this part and 34 CFR parts 656, 657, 658, 660, 661, and 669 are defined in 34 CFR part 77:

Acquisition Applicant Application Award Budget Contract

EDGAR Equipment Facilities Fiscal year Grant Grantee

Grant period Local educational agency Nonprofit Project Project period

Private Public Secretary State educational agency Supplies

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1127)

(b) Definitions that apply to these programs: The following definitions apply to International Education Programs:

Consortium of institutions of higher education means a group of institutions of higher education that have entered into a cooperative arrangement for the purpose of carrying out a common objective, or a public or private nonprofit agency, organization, or institution designated or created by a group of institutions of higher education for the purpose of carrying out a common objective on their behalf.

Critical languages means each of the languages contained in the list of critical languages designated by the Secretary pursuant to section 212(d) of the Education for Economic Security Act, except that, in the implementation of this definition, the Secretary may set priorities according to the purposes of title VI of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

Institution of higher education means, in addition to an institution that meets the definition of section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, an institution that meets the requirements of section 101(a) except that (1) it is not located in the United States, and (2) it applies for assistance under title VI of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, in consortia with institutions that meet the definitions in section 101(a).

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1127, and 1141)

[47 FR 14116, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993; 64 FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999; 74 FR 35072, July 17, 2009]

Subpart B—What Kinds of Projects Does the Secretary Assist?

§ 655.10   What kinds of projects does the Secretary assist?

Subpart A of 34 CFR parts 656, 657, and 669 and subpart B of 34 CFR parts 658, 660, 661 describe the kinds of projects that the Secretary assists under the International Education Programs.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1127)

[74 FR 35072, July 17, 2009]

Subpart C [Reserved]

Subpart D—How Does the Secretary Make a Grant?

§ 655.30   How does the Secretary evaluate an application?

The Secretary evaluates an applications for International Education Programs on the basis of—

(a) The general criteria in §655.31; and

(b) The specific criteria in, as applicable, subpart D of 34 CFR parts 658, 660, 661, and 669.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1127)

[64 FR 7739, Feb. 16, 1999]

§ 655.31   What general selection criteria does the Secretary use?

(a) Plan of operation.

(1) The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the quality of the plan of operation for the project.

(2) The Secretary looks for information that shows—

(i) High quality in the design of the project;

(ii) An effective plan of management that ensures proper and efficient administration of the project;

(iii) A clear description of how the objectives of the project relate to the purpose of the program;

(iv) The way the applicant plans to use its resources and personnel to achieve each objective; and

(v) A clear description of how the applicant will provide equal access and treatment for eligible project participants who are members of groups that have been traditionally underrepresented, such as—

(A) Members of racial or ethnic minority groups;

(B) Women; and

(C) Handicapped persons.

(b) Quality of key personnel.

(1) The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the quality of the key personnel the applicant plans to use on the project.

(2) The Secretary looks for information that shows—

(i) The qualifications of the project director (if one is to be used);

(ii) The qualifications of each of the other key personnel to be used in the project. In the case of faculty, the qualifications of the faculty and the degree to which that faculty is directly involved in the actual teaching and supervision of students; and

(iii) The time that each person referred to in paragraphs (b)(2) (i) and (ii) of this section plans to commit to the project; and

(iv) The extent to which the applicant, as part of its nondiscriminatory employment practices, encourages applications for employment from persons who are members of groups that have been traditionally underrepresented, such as members of racial or ethnic minority groups, women, handicapped persons, and the elderly.

(3) To determine the qualifications of a person, the Secretary considers evidence of past experience and training, in fields related to the objectives of the project, as well as other information that the applicant provides.

(c) Budget and cost effectiveness.

(1) The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that the project has an adequate budget and is cost effective.

(2) The Secretary looks for information that shows—

(i) The budget for the project is adequate to support the project activities; and

(ii) Costs are reasonable in relation to the objectives of the project.

(d) Evaluation plan.

(1) The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the quality of the evaluation plan for the project.

(2) The Secretary looks for information that shows methods of evaluation that are appropriate for the project and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable.

(e) Adequacy of resources.

(1) The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that the applicant plans to devote adequate resources to the project.

(2) The Secretary looks for information that shows—

(i) Other than library, facilities that the applicant plans to use are adequate (language laboratory, museums, etc.); and

(ii) The equipment and supplies that the applicant plans to use are adequate.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1127)

§ 655.32   What additional factors does the Secretary consider in making grant awards?

Except for 34 CFR parts 656, 657, and 661, to the extent practicable and consistent with the criterion of excellence, the Secretary seeks to achieve an equitable distribution of funds throughout the Nation.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1126(b)).

[58 FR 32575, June 10, 1993]

[Code of Federal Regulations]

[Title 34, Volume 3]

[Revised as of July 17, 2009]

[CITE: 34CFR660]

TITLE 34--EDUCATION

CHAPTER VI--OFFICE OF POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

PART 660—THE INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND STUDIES PROGRAM

PART 660—THE INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND STUDIES PROGRAM

Subpart A—General

§ 660.1 What is the International Research and Studies Program?

§ 660.2 Who is eligible to apply for grants under this program?

§ 660.3 What regulations apply?

§ 660.4 What definitions apply to the International Research and Studies Program?

Subpart B—What Kinds of Projects Does the Secretary Assist Under This Program?

§ 660.10 What activities does the Secretary assist?

Subpart C [Reserved]

Subpart D—How Does the Secretary Make a Grant?

§ 660.30 How does the Secretary evaluate an application?

§ 660.31 What selection criteria does the Secretary use for all applications for a grant?

§ 660.32 What additional selection criteria does the Secretary use for an application for a research project, a survey, or a study?

§ 660.33 What additional selection criteria does the Secretary use for an application to develop specialized instructional materials?

§ 660.34 What priorities may the Secretary establish?

Subpart E—What Conditions Must Be Met by a Grantee?

§ 660.40 What are the limitations on allowable costs?

Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125, unless otherwise noted.

Source: 47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—General

§ 660.1 What is the International Research and Studies Program?

The Secretary may, directly or through grants or contracts, conduct research and studies which contribute to the purposes of the International Education Program authorized by part A of title VI of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA). The research and studies may include, but are not limited to—

(a) Studies and surveys to determine needs for increased or improved instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields, including the demand for foreign language, area, and other international specialists in government, education, and the private sector;

(b) Research on more effective methods of providing instruction and achieving competency in foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields;

(c) Research on applying performance tests and standards across all areas of foreign language instruction and classroom use;

(d) Developing and publishing specialized materials for use in foreign language, area studies, and other international fields or for training foreign language, area, and other international specialists;

(e) Studies and surveys to assess the use of graduates of programs supported under title VI of the HEA by governmental, educational, and private-sector organizations and other studies assessing the outcomes and effectiveness of supported programs;

(f) Comparative studies of the effectiveness of strategies to provide international capabilities at institutions of higher education;

(g) Evaluations of the extent to which programs assisted under title VI of the HEA that address national needs would not otherwise be offered;

(h) Studies and surveys of the use of technologies in foreign language, area studies, and international studies programs;

(i) Studies and evaluations of effective practices in the dissemination of international information, materials, research, teaching strategies, and testing techniques throughout the educational community, including elementary and secondary schools;

j) Evaluations of the extent to which programs assisted under title VI of the HEA reflect diverse perspectives and a wide range of views and generate debate on world regions and international affairs, as described in the grantee's application;

(k) Systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of data that contribute to achieving the purposes of title VI, part A of the HEA; and

(l) Support for programs or activities to make data collected, analyzed, or disseminated under this part publicly available and easy to understand.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

[47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993; 64 FR 7740, Feb. 16, 1999; 74 FR 35074, July 17, 2009]

§ 660.2 Who is eligible to apply for grants under this program?

Public and private agencies, organizations, and institutions, and individuals are eligible to apply for grants under this part.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

§ 660.3 What regulations apply?

The following regulations apply to this program:

(a) The regulations in 34 CFR part 655.

(b) The regulations in this part 660.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1121–1125)

[58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993]

§ 660.4 What definitions apply to the International Research and Studies Program?

The definitions in 34 CFR 655.4 apply to this program.

(Authority: U.S.C. 1121–1127)

Subpart B—What Kinds of Projects Does the Secretary Assist Under This Program?

§ 660.10 What activities does the Secretary assist?

An applicant may apply for funds to carry out any of the following types of activities:

(a) Studies and surveys to determine the need for increased or improved instruction in—

(1) Modern foreign languages; and

(2) Area studies and other international fields needed to provide full understanding of the places in which those languages are commonly used.

(b) Research and studies—

(1) On more effective methods of instruction and achieving competency in modern foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields;

(2) To evaluate competency in those foreign languages, area studies, or other international fields; or

(3) On the application of performance tests and standards across all areas of foreign language instruction and classroom use.

(c) The development and publication of specialized materials—

(1) For use by students and teachers of modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields; and

(2) For use in—

(i) Providing such instruction and evaluation; or

(ii) Training individuals to provide such instruction and evaluation.

(d) Research, surveys, studies, or the development of instructional materials that serve to enhance international understanding.

(e) Other research or material development projects that further the purposes of the International Education Program authorized by part A of title VI of the HEA.

(f) Studies and surveys to assess the use of graduates of programs supported under title VI of the HEA by governmental, educational, and private-sector organizations, and other studies assessing the outcomes and effectiveness of supported programs.

(g) Comparative studies of the effectiveness of strategies to provide international capabilities at institutions of higher education.

(h) Evaluations of the extent to which programs assisted under title VI of the HEA that address national needs would not otherwise be offered.

(i) Studies and surveys of the uses of technology in foreign language, area studies, and international studies programs.

(j) Studies and evaluations of effective practices in the dissemination of international information, materials, research, teaching strategies, and testing techniques through the education community, including elementary and secondary schools.

k) Evaluations of the extent to which programs assisted under title VI of the HEA reflect diverse perspectives and a wide range of views and generate debate on world regions and international affairs, as described in the grantee's application.

(l) Systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of data that contribute to achieving the purposes of title VI, part A of the HEA.

(m) Support for programs or activities to make data collected, analyzed, or disseminated under this part publicly available and easy to understand.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

[47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 52 FR 28424, July 29, 1987; 58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993; 64 FR 7740, Feb. 16, 1999; 74 FR 35074, July 17, 2009]

Subpart C [Reserved]

Subpart D—How Does the Secretary Make a Grant?

§ 660.30 How does the Secretary evaluate an application?

(a) The Secretary evaluates an application for a research project, a study, or a survey on the basis of the criteria in §§660.31 and 660.32. The Secretary informs applicants of the maximum possible score for each criterion in the application package or in a notice published in the Federal Register.

(b) The Secretary evaluates an application for the development of specialized instructional materials on the basis of the criteria in §§660.31 and 660.33. The Secretary informs applicants of the maximum possible score for each criterion in the application package or in a notice published in the Federal Register.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

[70 FR 13375, Mar. 21, 2005]

§ 660.31 What selection criteria does the Secretary use for all applications for a grant?

The Secretary evaluates an application for a project under this program on the basis of the criteria in this section. The Secretary informs applicants of the maximum possible score for each criterion in the application package or in a notice published in the Federal Register.

(a) Plan of operation. (See 34 CFR 655.31(a))

(b) Quality of key personnel. (See 34 CFR 655.31(b))

(c) Budget and cost effectiveness. (See 34 CFR 655.31(c))

(d) Evaluation plan. (See 34 CFR 655.31(d))

(e) Adequacy of resources. (See 34 CFR 655.31(e))

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

[47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993; 70 FR 13376, Mar. 21, 2005]

§ 660.32 What additional selection criteria does the Secretary use for an application for a research project, a survey, or a study?

In addition to the criteria referred to in §660.31, the Secretary evaluates an application for a research project, study, or survey on the basis of the criteria in this section.

(a) Need for the project. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows—

(1) A need for the proposed project in the field of study on which the project focuses; and

(2) That the proposed project will provide information about the present and future needs of the United States for study in foreign language and other international fields.

(b) Usefulness of expected results. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the extent to which the results of the proposed project are likely to be used by other research projects or programs with similar objectives.

(c) Development of new knowledge. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that the extent to which the proposed project is likely to develop new knowledge that will contribute to the purposes of the International Education Program authorized by part A of title VI of the HEA.

(d) Formulation of problems and knowledge of related research. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that problems, questions, or hypotheses to be dealt with by the applicant—

(1) Are well formulated; and

(2) Reflect adequate knowledge of related research.

(e) Specificity of statement of procedures. The Secretary reviews each application for the specificity and completeness of the statement of procedures to be followed, including a discussion of such components as sampling techniques, controls, data to be gathered, and statistical and other analyses to be undertaken.

(f) Adequacy of methodology and scope of project. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows—

(1) The adequacy of the proposed teaching, testing, and research methodology; and

(2) The size, scope, and duration of the proposed project.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

[47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993; 70 FR 13376, Mar. 21, 2005]

§ 660.33 What additional selection criteria does the Secretary use for an application to develop specialized instructional materials?

In addition to the criteria referred to in §660.31, the Secretary evaluates an application to develop specialized instructional materials on the basis of the criteria in this section.

(a) Need for the project. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that—

(1) The proposed materials are needed in the educational field of study on which the project focuses; and

(2) The language or languages, the area, region, or country, or the issues or studies for which the materials are to be developed, are of sufficient priority and significance to the national interest to warrant financial support by the Federal Government.

(b) Potential for the use of materials in other programs. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the extent to which the proposed materials may be used elsewhere in the United States.

(c) Account of related materials. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that—

(1) All existing related or similar materials have been accounted for and the critical commentary on their adequacy is appropriate and accurate; and

(2) The proposed materials will not duplicate any existing adequate materials.

(d) Likelihood of achieving results. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that the outlined methods and procedures for preparing the materials are practicable and can be expected to produce the anticipated results.

(e) Expected contribution to other programs. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows the extent to which the proposed work may contribute significantly to strengthening, expanding, or improving programs of foreign language studies, area studies, or international studies in the United States.

(f) Description of final form of materials. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows a high degree of specificity in the description of the contents and final form of the proposed materials.

(g) Provisions for pretesting and revision. The Secretary reviews each application for information that shows that adequate provision has been made for—

(1) Pretesting the proposed materials; and

(2) If necessary, revising the proposed materials before publication.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

[47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993; 70 FR 13376, Mar. 21, 2005]

§ 660.34 What priorities may the Secretary establish?

(a) The Secretary may each year select for funding from among the following priorities:

(1) Categories of eligible projects described in §660.10.

(2) Specific languages or regions for study or materials development; for example, the Near or Middle East, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, Inner Asia, the Far East, Africa or Latin America, or the languages of those regions.

(3) Topics of research and studies; for example, language acquisition processes, methodology of foreign language instruction, foreign language performance testing, or assessments of resources and needs.

(4) Levels of education; for example, elementary, secondary, postsecondary or university-level education, or teacher education.

(b) The Secretary announces any priorities in the application notice published in the Federal Register.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1126)

[47 FR 14124, Apr. 1, 1982, as amended at 58 FR 32577, June 10, 1993]

Subpart E—What Conditions Must Be Met by a Grantee?

§ 660.40 What are the limitations on allowable costs?

Funds awarded under this part may not be used for the training of students and teachers.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1125)

GENERAL EDUCATION PROVISIONS ACT (GEPA)

GENERAL EDUCATION PROVISIONS ACT (GEPA)

EPA)

SECTION 427

Section 427 of GEPA requires all applicants for new awards to include in their applications a description of the steps the applicant proposes to take to ensure equitable access to, and participation in, its federally-assisted programs for students, teachers, and other program beneficiaries with special needs. The provision allows applicants discretion in developing the required description. The statute highlights six types of barriers that can impede equitable access or participation: gender, race, national origin, color, disability, or age.

A general statement of an applicant’s nondiscriminatory hiring policy is not sufficient to meet this requirement. Applicants must identify potential barriers and explain steps they will take to overcome these barriers.

NOTES:

• Applicants for new awards must include information in their applications to address this provision in order to receive funding under this program.

• Applicants are required to address this provision by attaching a statement to the ED GEPA 427 Form that must be downloaded from e-Application.

Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA)

Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA)

What is GPRA?

The Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA) is a straightforward statute that requires all federal agencies to manage their activities with attention to the consequences of those activities. Each agency is to clearly state what it intends to accomplish, identify the resources required, and periodically report their progress to the Congress. In so doing, it is expected that the GPRA will contribute to improvements in accountability for the expenditures of public funds, improve Congressional decision-making through more objective information on the effectiveness of federal programs, and promote a new government focus on results, service delivery, and customer satisfaction.

How has the Department of Education Responded to the GPRA Requirements?

As required by GPRA, the Department of Education has prepared a strategic plan for 2007-2012. This plan reflects the Department’s priorities and integrates them with its mission and program authorities and describes how the Department will work to improve education for all children and adults in the U.S. The Department’s goals, as listed in the plan, are:

Goal 1: Increase student achievement, reward qualified teachers, and renew troubled schools so that every student can read and do math at grade level by 2014, as called for by the No Child Left Behind Act.

Goal 2: Encourage more rigorous and advanced coursework to improve the academic performance of our middle and high school students.

Goal 3: Work with colleges and universities to improve access, affordability, and accountability, so that our higher education system remains the world’s finest.

The performance indicators for the International Education Programs are part of the Department’s plan for meeting Goal 3.

What is the Performance Indicator for the International Research and Studies Program?

The IRS Program supports surveys, studies, and instructional materials development to improve and strengthen instruction in modern foreign languages, area studies, and other international fields to provide full understanding of the places in which the foreign languages are commonly used. Under the Government Performance and Results Act, the Department will use the following measures to evaluate the success of the program in meeting this objective.

IRS Performance Measures:

Performance Measure 1: Percentage of IRS program projects judged to be successful by the program officer, based on a review of information provided in annual performance reports.

Performance Measure 2: Number of outreach activities that are adopted or disseminated within a year.

Efficiency Measure: Cost per successful outcome: the federal cost per successful IRS Program project.

The information provided by grantees in their performance reports submitted via the electronic International Resource Information System (IRIS) will be the source of data for this measure.

ons for Completing the IRS Application Package

Instructions for Completing the IRS Application Package

The IRS application consists of four parts. These parts are organized in the same manner that the submitted application should be organized. The parts are as follows:

Part I: 424 Forms

Application for Federal Assistance – (SF424)

*Item 12. Funding Opportunity Number: ED-Grants-XXXX-XXX

Department of Education Supplemental Information Form for SF424

Part II: 524 Forms

Department of Education Budget Summary Form – (ED 524)

Sections A & B

*Note: Section C – Budget Narrative should be included in the Budget Narrative Attachment, located in Part III.

Part III: Abstract, Narrative, Budget, and Appendices

ED Abstract (limited to 1 page)

Application Narrative Attachment (limited to 30 pages)

Budget Narrative Attachment and Detailed Line Item Budget

CV Attachment

Position Descriptions Attachment

Letters of Support Attachment

Project Timeline Attachment

The Department of Education Abstract (ED Abstract) is where you attach your 1 page project abstract.

The Application Narrative Attachment includes the narrative section addressing the program selection criteria that will be used to evaluate applications submitted for this competition - this section has a strict page limit of 30 pages.

The Budget Narrative Attachment is where you attach a detailed line item budget and any supplemental budget information. The Department requests both a detailed line item budget and budget narrative. Please provide an explicit detailed line item budget in addition to the Section C ED Form 524. The budget should demonstrate and justify that all costs are reasonable and necessary to accomplish the proposed project activities.

The CV Attachment is where you attach curricula vitae of key personnel. The Position Descriptions Attachment is where you attach position descriptions for proposed personnel for the project. The Letters of Support Attachment is where you attach letters of support for the project. The Project Timeline Attachment is where you attach a project timeline. All attachments should be uploaded as one document for each respective attachment. For example, all CVs should be uploaded as one entire CV attachment, all letters of support should be uploaded as one entire letter of support attachment, etc.

NOTE: Please do not attach any narratives, supporting files, or application components to the Standard Form (SF 424). Although the form accepts attachments, the Department of Education will only review materials/files attached to the attachment forms listed above.

*All attachments must be in .DOC, .RTF, or .PDF format. Other types of files will not be accepted.

Part IV: Assurances, Certifications, and Survey Forms

• GEPA Section 427 Requirement

• Assurances – Non-Construction Programs (SF 424B)

• Lobbying Form (formerly ED Form 80-0013)

• Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants

• Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL)

• Certification of Eligibility (ED80-0016) – (form required for persons applying as individuals only)

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL

Instructions for Project Narrative

Instructions for Application Narrative

Applicants will attach the application narrative under the Project Narrative Attachment heading in e-Application.

Please note that the project narrative is limited to 30 pages. This section includes the applicant’s responses to the selection criteria specified in the Notice and in this package.

Formatting

A “page” is “8.5 x 11”, on one side only, with 1” margins at the top, bottom, and both sides. Page numbers and an identifier may be within the 1” margin. Double space (no more than three lines per vertical inch) all text in the application narrative, except titles, headings, footnotes, quotations, references, captions, and all text in charts, tables, figures, and graphs. These items may be single-spaced. Charts, tables, figures, and graphs in the application narrative count toward the page limit. Applicants may use one of the following fonts: Times New Roman, Courier, Courier New or Arial, only. Applications submitted in any other font (including Times Roman and Arial Narrow) will not be accepted. Use a font that is either 12 point or larger or no smaller than 10 pitch (characters per inch). However, you may use a 10 point font in charts, tables, figures, and graphs.

Before preparing the Application Narrative, applicants should review the Dear Applicant Letter, Competition Highlights, the Federal Register notice (Notice), and program statute for specific guidance and requirements. Note that applications will be evaluated according to the specific selection criteria specified in the Notice and this package.

The Secretary evaluates an application on the basis of the broad criteria in 34 CFR Part 75, sections 75.209(a) and 75.210 of the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR). Please see “Selection Criteria” in the Federal Register Notice.

To facilitate the review of the application, provide responses to the following selection criteria in the following order:

1. NEED FOR THE PROJECT (10 points)

a) Is there a need for the proposed project in the field of study on which the project focuses?

b) Will the proposed project provide information about the present and future needs of the United States for study in foreign language and other international fields?

2. USEFULNESS OF EXPECTED RESULTS (10 points)

a) To what extent are the results of the proposed project likely to be used by other research projects or programs with similar objectives?

3. DEVELOPMENT OF NEW KNOWLEDGE (10 points)

a) To what extent is the proposed activity likely to develop new knowledge that will contribute to the purposes of the International Education Program (under Title VI, Part A, Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended)?

4. FORMULATION OF PROBLEMS AND KNOWLEDGE OF RELATED RESEARCH (10 points)

a) Are the problems, questions, or hypotheses to be dealt with well-formulated?

b) Does this formulation reflect adequate knowledge of related research?

5. SPECIFICITY OF STATEMENT OF PROCEDURES (5 points)

a) Is the statement of procedures to be followed specific and complete (including whenever applicable, information on sampling techniques, controls, data to be gathered, and/or statistical and other analyses to be undertaken)?

6. ADEQUACY OF RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND SCOPE OF PROJECT (10 points)

a) Are the proposed teaching, testing, and research methodologies adequate?

b) Are the size, scope, and duration of the project adequate?

7. PLAN OF OPERATION (10 points)

a) Does the design of the project show high quality?

b) How effective is the plan of management? To what extent will it ensure proper and efficient administration of the project?

c) Is there a clear description of how the objectives of the project relate to the purpose of the (Section 605) program?

d) Does the application show the way the applicant plans to use its resources and personnel to achieve each objective?

e) To what extent will the applicant provide equal access treatment for eligible project participants who are members of groups that have been traditionally underrepresented, such as members of racial and ethnic minority groups, women, and handicapped persons?

8. QUALITY OF PERSONNEL (10 points)

a) Is there information that shows the project director's qualifications?

b) Is there information that shows the qualifications of the other key personnel, if any, to participate in the project?

c) Does the application show the amount of time that the persons referred to under (a) and (b), above, plan to commit to the project?

d) To what extent does the applicant, as part of its non-discriminatory employment practices, encourage applications for employment from members of groups that have been traditionally under-represented, such as members of racial or ethnic minority groups, women, handicapped persons, and the elderly?

9. BUDGET AND COST EFFECTIVENESS (5 points)

a) Is the proposed budget adequate to support the project activities?

b) Are the costs reasonable in relation to the objectives of the project?

10. EVALULATION PLAN (15 points)

a) Does the application show methods of evaluation that are appropriate for the project and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable?

11. ADEQUACY OF RESOURCES (5 points)

a) Are the facilities that the applicant plans to use adequate?

b) Are the equipment and supplies which the applicant plans to use adequate?

12. COMPETITIVE PREFERENCE PRIORITY 2 (additional 5 points)

TO BE ANNOUNCED

Paperwork Burden Statement

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 1840-0795. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 127 hours (or minutes) per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data resources, gather the data needed, and complete and review the information collection.

If you have any comments concerning the accuracy of the time estimate(s) or suggestions for improving this form, please write to: U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537.

If you have comments or concerns regarding the status of your individual submission of this form, write directly to: International Research and Studies Program, U.S. Department of Education, 1990 K Street, N.W., 6^th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20006-8521.