Submissions to the IRB first undergo a screening process. The screening is not an official IRB review. The purpose of the screening is to determine whether the submission is ready to be sent on for IRB review or if additional information/corrections are needed. This screening is completed within 5 business days from receipt of the IRB Application.

Once an application is determined to be ready for IRB review, the form is assigned to an IRB reviewer. In general, IRB reviews are conducted within 7-10 days. The IRB does not conduct reviews during quarter break. Note that in times of high volume reviews may take longer. If you do not receive your review within 10 business days (except during quarter break), contact the IRB Office.

Note that the 7-10 day timeline refers only to the initial IRB review. The overall time spent in the IRB process varies from project to project, depending on the nature and quantity of the revisions that may be required. Projects with significant risk or feasibility concerns may take several months to receive IRB approval.