1. Identify a Suitable Award: Determine which NRSA grant aligns with your research goals and career stage. 2. Prepare a Research Proposal: Develop a detailed research plan, including objectives, methodology, and potential impact. 3. Secure Institutional Support: Obtain letters of support from your institution and potential mentors. 4. Submit the Application: Use the NIH's electronic Research Administration (eRA) system to submit your application. 5. Peer Review: Applications undergo a rigorous peer review process to assess their scientific merit and feasibility.