Graduate Research Grant Program 2026

Deadline: Feb 02, 2026

masters | phd | postdoctoral

partially funded

United States

To Apply

Please visit the application link below to apply.

Opportunity Overview

The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is currently accepting applications for its Graduate Research Grant Program 2026. This program is designed to fund research that produces practical, objective outcomes capable of improving the lives of autistic individuals, their families, and their communities. OAR prioritizes applied research that can inform real-world decision-making rather than purely theoretical work.

🏢 About the Program

The Graduate Research Grant Program is aimed at supporting research that has a tangible impact on the autism community. The program encourages projects that address real-world challenges and provide actionable insights.

💰 Benefits

Grant Amounts:
- Up to $2,000 for Doctoral or Post-doctoral candidates.
- Up to $1,000 for Master’s candidates.
OAR will consider awarding up to 12 grants, with a total funding pool of $20,000.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to a broad and inclusive applicant pool. Eligibility requirements include:

Graduate, Doctoral, or Post-doctoral student status.
An independent autism research project.
Research conducted during the designated grant period.
International students and applicants based outside the United States are eligible to apply.
At least one faculty research advisor must provide a formal letter of support.

📝 Application Process

Applicants must submit a complete online proposal package. The required components include:

Cover letter.
Project abstract.
Background and rationale.
Research methodology and evaluation plan.
Project timeline.
Outcome recommendations.
Practical relevance statement.
Human subjects protection documentation (if applicable).
Itemized budget following OAR guidelines.
Letter of support from a faculty research advisor.

Note: Incomplete applications may not be considered.

📅 Application Deadline

Deadline: 02 February, 2026

🌐 Application Portal

View details of the program on the OAR Graduate Research Grant Program page.
Apply directly via the OAR Application Portal.

This is an excellent opportunity for graduate students to contribute to meaningful autism research while receiving financial support for their projects. Don't miss the chance to make an impact!

Benefits

The maximum grant awards are $2,000.00 for Doctoral or Post-doctoral candidates and $1,000.00 for Master’s candidates.
OAR will consider making up to 12 awards, for a total of $20,000 in grants.

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