Applications open for two medical education assessment grant programs: 2026 Emerging Innovators and 2027 Stemmler Grants

To advance health care through assessment, NBME believes in empowering medical education and assessment communities with the resources they need. We do this through various Contribution programs that support and recognize educators and researchers throughout the continuum of their careers.

Two grant programs are currently accepting proposals or letters of intent for those looking to innovate assessment — whether it’s methodologies in the field or within individual programs. 

2026 Emerging Innovators Grants: Apply by June 15, 2026

The Emerging Innovators Grant Program is designed to support early- and mid-career faculty, researchers and program leaders who want to explore visionary ideas and make a lasting impact on the medical education landscape. The theme for project proposals is Promoting Equitable and Innovative Assessment in Medical Education. Proposals should focus on advancing either equity, innovation, or both in medical education assessment.

All are encouraged to submit proposals, including individuals and/or teams which include individuals who are underrepresented in medicine.

NBME will fund up to $25,000 in total for each accepted proposal. At least four proposals that can be completed within a 1–2-year timeframe will be selected. Grants will be awarded to medical schools accredited by the LCME or the AOA/COCA or graduate medical education (GME) training facilities. 

Applications are currently being accepted until June 15, 2026. Learn more on NBME's Emerging Innovators Grants page.

2027 Stemmler Grants: Apply by June 29, 2026

The Stemmler Grant supports mid- and senior-career researchers who are developing innovative assessment methodologies or techniques in medical education or practice, including both pilots and more comprehensive projects. Collaborative investigations within or among institutions are eligible and encouraged. 

Teams are required to include one junior member, providing an opportunity for researchers and faculty in the early stages of their career to receive mentorship and gain a broader understanding of medical education and assessment research.

NBME will fund up to three awards of up to $150,000 for each research team. Eligible applicants are medical schools accredited by the LCME or the AOA/COCA. 

The number of letters of intent submitted by any eligible school is not limited. Following this phase, selected researchers will be asked to submit full proposals in early 2027. 

Letters of intent are currently being accepted until June 29, 2026. Learn more on NBME’s Stemmler Grant page.

NBME Medical Education Assessment Grant Q&A Session: April 21, 2026 at 12 p.m. EST

Have questions on the open grant applications? Join our information session on April 21 at 12 p.m. EST for details on the programs and an opportunity to ask questions. The first half of the session will focus on Emerging Innovators Grant Program, and the second on the Stemmler Grants Program.  Register to attend here.