IRB Submission Timelines

If your study has a deadline or specific time constraint, please give yourself and the IRB enough time to complete the review. Contact the IRB if you have questions or concerns about your deadline.

Submissions for Exempt and Expedited Review

There is no submission deadline for the initial review of exempt or expedited research, or requests for modifications.

Expedited annual review documents are due 30 days prior to the study expiration date. Approval times for studies that require full-board review may be affected by the timing of full-board meetings. Full board meetings are scheduled once a month. If study materials are not received prior to the submission deadline, they will be scheduled for the IRB meeting that occurs in the following month.

Submissions for Full Board Review

New research projects requiring full board review are added to a meeting agenda when the IRB Analysts have determined that the study meets federal approval criteria.

Research that is greater than minimal risk, requires a risk determination on a device or does not qualify for Exempt or Expedited review is handled at a convened IRB meeting. Convened IRB meetings are ordinarily held on the third Tuesday of each month. New projects are placed on the agenda only after designated IRB reviewers determine the submission is ready; that readiness usually requires 2–3 rounds of review and revision. To allow adequate time, please submit studies that will require Full Board review at least three weeks before the target meeting date. If you have a specific deadline or time-sensitive need, contact the IRB as early as possible so we can advise on scheduling and help you meet your timeline.

2026 IRB Meeting Dates