Writing a Project Proposal

A Good Proposal Describes...

• what you hope to accomplish
• why those objectives are important to your academic or artistic field
• how you intend to achieve your objectives

Your original project proposal is the core of your grant application. 

Detailed Proposal Requirements

• Detailed Project Proposal Guidelines: Follow our guidelines carefully based on the project you envision to pursue. In this guide, you will find:
  • General guidelines for all grant proposals
  • Additional specific guidelines for Research, Arts/Design, and Senior Synthesis project proposals
  • Ways to turn your good proposal into a great one
• Sample Project Proposals: Check out exemplars of past student project proposals.
• AI Policy: The use of generative AI is analogous to assistance from another person. In particular, using AI tools to substantially complete your application is not permitted. Research and original scholarship is fundamentally collaborative, and it is expected that you seek feedback from mentors and colleagues while also clearly articulating your own contributions. For example, you may brainstorm ideas with your professor or friend, but they would not write your application for you. Please refer to Stanford’s Policy on the Use of Generative AI for further guidance.

Connect with Faculty Mentors and UADs

• Students interested in applying for a VPUE Undergraduate Research Grant should connect with their Faculty Mentor regarding their proposed project.
  • Faculty Mentors should meet required eligibility criteria.
• Students should schedule a meeting with their Undergraduate Advising Director (UAD) as they write their proposal. UADs are well-versed with all VPUE Undergraduate Research Grants!