Questions and responses
Below are questions received about the RFP and application process. If your questions are not answered below, you may send an email to Jennifer Henkel at jhenkel@aswb.org.
How much is the grant amount? Is there really no cap?
ASWB specifically excluded a maximum budget amount from the proposal. We do not want to limit the resources necessary for a successful outcome as determined by the bidder. We intend to use the strength of the proposal, including methodology, project task detail, scope of source documents, and description of deliverables to evaluate if the proposed budget is justified. ASWB has allocated ample resources to this project. Bidders are encouraged to think broadly.
Will you be awarding funding to one proposal or multiple proposals?
It is likely that there will be multiple awards given; however, it will depend on the size and scope of awards.
Are you looking for specific types of data & methodologies (specific variables, primary vs secondary, literature reviews, etc.)?
No. We are open to the expertise, thoughtfulness, and creativity of proposals.
Can we propose a project that touches on multiple aspects of the topics they have identified?
Yes. Though, we ask that any researcher submitting a proposal make sure that the instrument clearly illustrates what is being measured.
Can it be a multi-year project?
Yes. Researchers would be expected to provide regular updates (quarterly, semi-annually, etc.). But if a project plan is clearly defined with timeline and goals, then a multi-year project would be acceptable.
Is it possible for a proposal to be considered from multiple researchers/institutions, spanning one state (or connecting multiple states)?
Yes. If the project plan is clearly defined and includes roles for multiple researchers or sites, then it would be considered.
We are working to develop a timeline and want to be as accurate as possible. Therefore, we are wondering when to expect a response and disbursement of funds.
A diverse and impartial committee will review all proposals submitted on time. The intention of the review committee is to make awards in August 2023.
Funds will be distributed based on a contractual agreement developed when a proposal is chosen. With other projects, funds have been distributed quarterly based on deliverables. However, based on the individuality of each project, other disbursement schedules would be considered.
Is ASWB providing datasets to researchers?
ASWB maintains datasets regarding test taker demographics, performance information, degree program, and other information related to test administration. Datasets may be made available to successful proposal authors upon completion of contractual and confidentiality agreements.
Researchers are strongly encouraged to explore and use datasets from all available sources.
Would ASWB be willing and able to distribute a survey to its national listserv?
ASWB would be willing to support research including sharing a survey link via our various publications, listservs, and communications channels.
The RFP’s scope of purpose feels broad. Is there specific guidance on the topic area?
Reviewers are open to the expertise, thoughtfulness, and creativity of proposals. The areas of focus are described on Page 1 of the RFP.
Is there a rubric or template available for this grant? Is a budget template available?
The rubric for review of this grant is being created by the review committee. The components will be those listed on Pages 6-8 of the RFP.
There is not a budget template. ASWB uses Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Proposals must include a detailed budget that stipulates how funds will be spent, including direct costs, salaries, wages and benefits, administration and overhead (if applicable), contractor costs, materials and supplies, and travel (if applicable).
If we submit a proposal with a budget much higher than the available funds, is there an opportunity for negotiation or for partial funding?
Yes, there would be an opportunity for partial funding or negotiation. It would be ideal to highlight areas of negotiation or where you believe partial funding would be applicable.
