NSF, NIH change Data Management Plan requirements in 2026

Researchers seeking funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) should be aware of significant changes to data management planning requirements that took effect in 2026.

While both agencies continue to emphasize responsible research data management and sharing, they have introduced new formats and submission processes that may affect how investigators prepare grant proposals. Understanding these changes early can help researchers avoid delays, ensure compliance, and streamline proposal development.

What's Changing?

NSF: Data Management and Sharing Plans Move to Research.gov

Beginning April 27, 2026, NSF replaced the traditional uploaded PDF Data Management Plan with a structured Data Management and Sharing Plan (DMSP) webform built directly into Research.gov. Researchers can no longer upload a separate PDF document for most NSF proposals. Instead, proposal submitters complete a series of questions within the proposal submission system itself. More information can be found here at NSF- Data Management and Sharing Plan.

Key implications include:

• The DMSP is now completed within Research.gov.
• Questions may vary based on the proposal's primary NSF Directorate.
• Investigators must explicitly address plans for sharing data and other research products.
• If a project will not generate data or research products requiring sharing, a justification must be provided.

NIH: Simplified Data Management and Sharing Plan Format

NIH implemented a new Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Plan format effective for applications with due dates on or after May 25, 2026. The underlying NIH Data Management and Sharing Policy has not changed; however, the format investigators use to document compliance has been substantially revised. The new NIH format:

• Replaces much of the previous narrative structure with standardized questions
• Uses several Yes/No responses regarding data sharing commitments
• Requests brief explanations when data sharing will be limited
• Includes a concise table describing anticipated data types and repositories
• Encourages clearer, more consistent reporting and compliance tracking

In addition, NIH has issued implementation guidance requiring ongoing alignment with the revised format and reporting expectations. Read more in this announcement: Updated Elements of an NIH Data Management and Sharing Plan. 

Additional Agency Resources

NSF