How does the program finder work?
The finder matches a career stage to the NIH program types designed for it and labels each one Active, Changed or Ended based on NIGMS listings checked in November 2026. Nothing you click is sent anywhere; the matching happens in your browser.
- Pick the stage: Kâ12, community college, undergraduate, postbac, master's, PhD, MD/PhD, postdoc, early-career faculty, or program director.
- Read the list. Active programs come first, then changed ones, then ended ones.
- Follow a link for the full profile, including mechanism, eligibility and history.
What do the labels mean?
| Label | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Active | NIGMS lists the program and accepts applications, or the parent announcement is open |
| Changed | Still exists in some form but closed to new applications, restructured or time-limited |
| Ended | No longer on NIGMS's list of current programs; most were reported terminated in 2025 |
What the finder doesn't do
It doesn't check individual eligibility; the eligibility quick-check does a first pass on citizenship and institutional rules. It also doesn't list programs from foundations, other federal agencies or individual universities, which can be excellent options. For the full story of what changed and when, read what changed, 2011â2026.
Questions people ask
Why does the finder show programs that ended?
Because people still need to understand them, for example when reading a CV, an old annual report or a campus web page that hasn't been updated. You can untick the box to hide them.
Does an "Active" program mean my campus has one?
No. It means NIH currently lists or funds that program type. Individual campuses have to apply for and win an award. Ask the graduate school or sponsored programs office which awards your institution holds.
How often is the status updated?
We checked every entry against NIGMS and NIH Guide pages in November 2026. Policies have changed quickly, so treat the status as a starting point and confirm in the current announcement.