PSDA FAQs

ELIGIBILITY

Q: AM I FROM A DISADVANTAGED BACKGROUND?

A:  For the purposes of this PSDA, disadvantaged backgrounds may include, but are not limited to:

  1. First generation college graduates
  2. Low-income populations
  3. People with disabilities
  4. Those who experience or have experienced homelessness, the foster care system, and/or grew up in a rural area
  5. Being a past recipient of a Pell Grant, Fee Assistance Program, Loan for Disadvantaged Students
  6. Those who have participated in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants and Children (WIC) as either a parent or child, etc.
  7. Other unique circumstances not included on the above list. Please respond to the Supplemental Statement to describe any situation that would help us understand these unique circumstances
PREPARING TO APPLY

Q: What information should I complete in the Partners Cover sheet?

A:  The Partners Cover Sheet is not required at the time of application. 

Q: Are letters of recommendation required?

A: Yes, two letters of recommendation are required; one from the Department Chair and one from a mentor.

Q: Is a list of references/bibliography required with the Research Plan?

A: Yes, but this does not count towards the 5-page limit.

SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION

Q: Does the application need to go through Grants Management for pre-review?

A: No, please submit your application directly to ECOR using the Online Grant Management Portal. You can access this by clicking here.

NOTIFICATION

Q: When will the applicants be notified of the funding decisions for this award?

A:  Applicants will be notified via email in July 2025.