Although sponsors expect the sponsored program to be completed by the originally specified deadline, some sponsors allow no-cost extensions of the program period. That is, the sponsor may agree to an extended performance period, but commits no additional funding to the program.

Among sponsors allowing no-cost extensions, the procedure for obtaining an extension and the amount of time allowed for an extension vary. Some federal agencies authorize the university to grant these extensions internally, within agency guidelines. The PI/PD should contact the ORSP, well in advance of the program termination date, for information regarding the allowability of and the procedure for requesting a no-cost extension on a project.