The American Political Science Association is excited to invite APSA members to apply for the next cycle of Centennial Center Research Grants (CCRGs). These grants are a cornerstone of APSA’s commitment to expanding access to research support across the discipline, particularly for political scientists whose institutional positions or professional circumstances limit access to research funding.
As interest in the CCRG continues to grow, APSA has adjusted the application timelines to better support a fair, rigorous, and timely peer-review process. Beginning in 2026, all CCRG cycles will open and close earlier in the calendar year, giving applicants greater clarity, more predictable decision timelines, and earlier access to funding to support their research agendas.As outlined in the Centennial Center Grant Guide (Delehanty 2023), the program is designed to reduce structural barriers to scholarship and expand access to research support across the discipline.
KEY DATES FOR APPLICANTS
Spring 2026
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• January 1–Applications live
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• March 15–Application deadline (11:59 PM PT)
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• May 15–Target award announcement date*
Summer 2026 Centennial Center Research Grants (CCRG)
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• March 1–Applications live
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• May 15–Application deadline (11:59 PM PT)
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• July 15–Target award announcement date*
*- Actual award announcement dates may vary depending on application volume and the review timeline.
WHY THE TIMELINES ARE CHANGING
Interest in the CCRG program has increased substantially in recent years. During the most recent Spring cycle, the Centennial Center received approximately 280 applications, compared to roughly 70 applications three years prior. Each proposal is assessed by at least two reviewers, and APSA works to ensure reviewer workloads are distributed equitably.
As application volume has grown, so has the time required to recruit reviewers, complete evaluations, determine awards, and process payments. The revised timelines are designed to benefit applicants by enabling timelier award decisions, ensuring a more consistent and thorough review process, and providing greater clarity and predictability for planning research activities. These adjustments build on recent updates to CCRG program language that clarify eligibility criteria and application components, helping applicants assess their fit before applying, and allowing reviewers to concentrate on evaluating project quality, feasibility, and scholarly significance.
WHAT APPLICANTS NEED TO KNOW
Centennial Center Research Grants remain unchanged in scope and purpose; only the application timelines have shifted. Applications will still open two to three months before each deadline. and language has been updated to help you determine whether the program is a good fit.
To make the most of the revised timeline and submit a strong proposal, begin by checking eligibility early to confirm your project aligns with program goals. Plan ahead for any activities involving travel, data collection, or external approvals, and ensure your research activities are clearly defined and feasible within the proposed timeframe. Note that for the Spring cycle, proposed research activities should not begin before May 1, and for the Summer cycle, they should not begin before July 15. Before finalizing your budget, review program materials and allowable uses of funds to avoid surprises. By preparing early and aligning your proposal with CCRG priorities, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother application process and a greater chance of success.
LEARN MORE
Members interested in applying should consult the Centennial Center Grant Guide (Delehanty 2023) for additional context on program goals and review criteria. Current application deadlines, eligibility information, and submission instructions are available at https://apsanet.org/ and https://connect.apsanet.org/centennialcenter/. ■
