Agency Update: NSF and NIH Release New DMS Plans

In early 2026, both National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced changes to the format and creation of their Data Management and Sharing Plans (DMS Plan). Here, we summarize how the changes will impact your proposal preparation and provide resources to help you prepare for the updated forms. 

What is a Data Management and Sharing Plan? 

Grant applications often require a DMS Plan in order to detail how data will be used in the research project, and how it will be available to future investigators. DMS Plans typically include information such as: 

• The type, amount, and format of data to be collected
• How the data will be handled, stored, and analyzed during the project 
• Where the data will be kept and shared after the research is complete 

For more details about Data Management Plans and their importance, visit the UC Davis Library’s Data Management Plan website. 

New NIH Data Management and Sharing Plan Form 

In February 2026 (NOT-OD-26-046), NIH announced changes to their DMS Plan that are “intended to update DMS Plan elements to clarify common areas of confusion in the research community while streamlining and simplifying DMS Plans.”  

Timing of implementation

NIH released their new DMS Plan form in April 2026 (NOT-OD-26-046). This form is required for deadlines on or after May 25, 2026. For deadlines before May 25, researchers may use either the new form or the old form from 2023.  

Format of new form

The new NIH Data Management and Sharing Plan form shifts to a simplified format consisting of primarily Yes/No questions, with short explanations required wherever data handling deviates from expected management. Additionally, applicants must identify repositories where data will be stored, shared, and archived. The new form is greatly simplified relative to the previous two-page, paragraph format.  

For more information and guidance, visit the NIH webpage on DMS Plans.  

Changes to the NSF Data Management and Sharing 

In PAPPG 24-1, Supplement 2, NSF announced several changes to data handling policies for awards after January 22, 2026.  

Updates to data handling policy

Changes to NSF’s data handling policies include: 

• Sharing of research products: “Investigators are expected to publicly share...” Previously, PAPPG language indicated sharing with other researchers.
• Timeframe for sharing: “Recipients are required to share all data supporting NSF funded publications at the time of publication”. The PAPPG previously stated that data sharing should happen within a reasonable timeframe.  

New DMS Plan creation tool on Research.gov

On April 27, 2026, NSF released a new tool on Research.gov for the creation of DMS Plans. The new form consists of seven questions with drop-down menus and text boxes for additional information where applicable. Applicants will complete the DMS Plan form – answering each of the seven questions – for each category of data their project involves. 

Importantly, be sure to visit NSF’s webpage on preparing Data Management and Sharing Plans where you can find links to directorate- and program-specific guidance for preparing DMS Plans. 

Finding a Data Repository 

As part of any Data Management and Sharing Plan, you will need to choose a repository that will serve as the central place to hold, organize, and share your data. The UC Davis Library website has helpful resources for finding the most appropriate repository for your work.