Understand how applications are scored and percentiled, and learn what goes into a summary statement.
Scoring
The NIH uses a 9-point rating scale for all applications with a score of 1 meaning exceptional. Applications are assessed by at least 3 reviewers prior to the peer review meeting and each assigned reviewer provides a preliminary impact score. The preliminary impact scores help inform the committee on which applications are most meritorious and should be discussed.
Discussed applications will receive a final overall impact score. Because discussing all applications is not always feasible, some applications may be not discussed and will not receive an overall impact score.
Percentiles
In addition to your score, the percentile shows the ranking of your application relative to the other applications reviewed by that study section at its last three meetings. Note that not all applications are percentiled.
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Not percentiled |
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To understand how NINDS will consider your score or percentile, review the NINDS Paylines page.
Summary Statements
The Scientific Review Officer (SRO) prepares the summary statement for each application which contains a resume of the discussion (if discussed), the reviewers' critiques, the priority score, and budget and administrative notes. The summary statement becomes the official Institute or Center record of the recommendations made by the peer review committee.
Additional Resources
Scoring
How NIH Review Criteria can Affect your Score
Other Critical Factors that can Affect your Score
Summary Statements
Know What your Summary Statement Means
After you get your Summary Statement, Contact your Program Officer
If Problems Are Fixable, Start Revising Quickly