How long will it take to receive a decision on an award application?
The time will vary depending on several factors but usually takes only 2-3 weeks. When a completed application is received, it is sent out immediately to other catfish taxonomists for review. If an application is not complete or requests more money than is allowed, it is returned to the applicant without review. Reviews of accepted applications are received within one week, and the applicant is notified of a decision by ACSI to fund or not to fund the application.

How long will it take to receive the funding once an award is approved and I have submitted all information requested regarding the transfer of funds?
If the award is to be made, information on where funds are to be transferred is requested. Electronic fund transfers are made to awardees outside of the U.S. and can occur quickly (generally within 2 weeks) if all of the proper information is provided. Electronic transfers may be significantly delayed if applicants do not provide the necessary information about how to tranfer funds electroncially to their accounts. Checks rather than electronic transfers are made to awardees in the U.S. The time will vary depending on the type of transfer, but most will take 2-4 weeks. Checks are generally slower than electronic transfers.

If I am traveling to another country on ACSI funds, will I need a visa? If so, what type?
Visa requirements vary by country. Go to the government website for the country you plan to visit, or write to an embassy or consulate of that country to obtain information. Visa requirements for visits to the United States are explained at: http://www.immigrationagency.org/. It is your responsibility to obtain the proper visa. You are likely to be required to have a letter of invitation from the institution(s) you are planning to visit, and some institutions may require you to purchase your own travel insurance. The entire process is likely to take several weeks. ACSI cannot issue funds for travel to a foreign country without proof of visa.

If an award is approved, what funds will I receive before the project begins, and what funds will be received after the project (i.e., require receipts for reimbursement)?
All funds for projects in countries other than the U.S. can be received prior to the beginning of the project. All funds for project expenses in the U.S. other than for travel (e.g., for supplies) also can be received prior to the beginning of the project. Travel expenses to/from/in the U.S. can only be paid after the travel is completed and all receipts are received (e.g., for air travel and lodging). An exception is that airline or train tickets can be purchased by ACSI before time of travel and mailed to you.

Do I need to identify other sources of funding for projects proposed to ACSI?
Yes. If you have other external funding for the project that you propose to ACSI, please identify the source(s) of the external funds and the amount of support AND please explain how the objectives of that support differ from those in your proposal.