Application Questions
When is the application window for IRES-RR?
Traditionally, the application window is during late fall. The application window is open for a minimum of six weeks. If there is not a link on the current web page that takes you to the application, the application window has not opened yet. If applications have closed for a program year, the web page will state that clearly.
How do I know if you received my application?
You will receive an email confirmation of receipt from ETAP after you submit your application via ETAP. If you do not see this in your email inbox, please check your spam/junk mail folder. If you cannot find an email confirmation, please contact ETAP by calling 800-232-8024 or emailing help@nsfetap.org. If ETAP confirms that your application was received, then the IRES-RR selection committee has it, too.
If some other engagement or my school schedule will not allow me to start the IRES-RR program or travel to Spain on the specified program start dates, am I still eligible to apply?
Yes. The goal is to have all students and program personnel travel to and from Spain together as a cohort, but there is some minor flexibility. Please identify constraints you envision as part of your application materials, and these can be discussed with selected finalists as necessary.
The application asks for copies of my transcripts. Are unofficial copies acceptable, and do I need to provide copies from all schools attended?
Unofficial transcripts are suitable, and please provide transcripts for all universities attended. Note that if your current school’s transcript itemizes transfer credits from other institutions, then transcripts from the other institutions are not needed.
For graduate students: Along with your current transcript, a final transcript from your degree-granting institution(s) for previous degrees is sufficient.
The application asks for two reference letters from academic faculty. If I do not have close relationships with academic faculty, is it OK if one of the letters comes from my employer?
Yes, although letters from faculty are preferred whenever possible, the IRES-RR program selection committee will accept references from employment/volunteer supervisors, teaching assistants, postdocs with whom you have worked, research collaborators, and academic advisors.
How do references submit letters of recommendation?
During the ETAP application process, you will be asked to enter email addresses for two references. Once you enter these and submit your application, emails will automatically be sent from ETAP to the individuals you indicated. These emails will include unique URLs that your references must use to submit letters of recommendation on your behalf. For your application to be considered complete, letters of recommendation must be submitted through ETAP (NOT emailed directly to the IRES-RR site or the Raptor Research Center). You will have the opportunity through the ETAP portal to monitor the response rate of references and prompt the system to send them reminder emails.
When will I hear about the decision on my application?
Finalists typically will be selected by early to mid-January in each program year. Rest assured, all applicants will be notified about the decision on their applications as soon as possible.
I still have a question about the IRES-RR application process. Who do I contact?
IRES-Raptor Research applicants who have questions about the application process can start with the ETAP (Education & Training Application) FAQ web page, or reach out to NSF ETAP (Education & Training Application)Â by calling (800) 673-6188 or emailing etaphelp@nsf.gov.