Change in Scope
A change in scope occurs when the grant recipient wants to change the objectives or purposes identified in the approved application. Examples include:
- Shifting the research emphasis from one focus area to another
- Changing the service area
- Applying a new technology (e.g., changing methods from those originally approved to a different method)
- Making budget changes that cause a project to change substantially from that which was approved
- Change in project partner (such as contractor or subcontractor)
Other Considerations
The grant recipient should contact their OCSS project officer to determine whether a change of scope is needed when considering changing their grant project. The project officer will discuss these questions with the recipient when considering this change in scope request:
- Are the proposed changes closely tied to the goals and objectives of the OCSS program?
- Will the proposed changes allow the recipient to meet the objectives of the proposed project change?
- Are the proposed changes allowable, allocable, and reasonable?
- Important: Does the proposed project change still meet all eligibility criteria in the Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement under which the grant recipient originally applied for?
- Is the newly proposed changes feasible and realistic? Does the recipient organization have sufficient capacity to execute the new project?
When to Request a Change in Scope
A grant recipient may request a change in scope at any time during the project period. However, the request should occur before the final year of the project to ensure enough time to complete project outcomes and goals. Grant recipients should consult with their OCSS project officer if they are nearing the end of their project and are considering a change in scope.
Documents Required
- Dated cover letter signed by the Authorized Organizational Representative (AOR) that includes:
- Grant Award Number(s) and Grant Recipient Organization Name
- Remaining grant balance and pending carryover amount
- Effective date of change
- Summary of the Change in Scope
- Written explanation of why the Change in Scope is needed, including the reason for the change and summary of activities that will or will not be completed because of the change.
- Updated work plan
- Budget narrative (if applicable to the change)
- SF-424 signed by AOR
- SF-424A - Budget Information and Budget Narrative. There is a column for the current budget levels for each category on the Notice of Grant Award.
How to Submit a Request for Change in Scope
Grant recipients must submit a change in Scope in the GrantSolutions Grants Management Module as an amendment:
- Under Actions, select “Manage Amendments”
- Select “New”
- Select “Change in Scope”
- Click “Create Amendment”