Frequently Asked Questions for the New Rackham Awards Management Portal

This page will be updated when additional information becomes available, including the specific links to the new system and further guidance on using the system.

Questions and Answers

• What is the new Rackham Awards Management Portal and when is it launching?
• Which Rackham awards will be included in the initial phase?
• What are the highlights of the new system for users?
• How will the new system change the application process for faculty and students?
• Where can I find step-by-step instructions for faculty or research advisor endorsements?
• What happens if a faculty or research advisor does not endorse an application?
• Will the current application process remain available during the transition?
• What should faculty or research advisors do if they encounter issues during the endorsement process?
• How will faculty or research advisors receive notifications about applications requiring their action?
• Can faculty or research advisors check for pending applications without waiting for an email notification?

What is the new Rackham Awards Management Portal and when is it launching?

The new Rackham Awards Management Portal is a platform designed to streamline the application process for Rackham awards and fellowships. The soft launch is scheduled for early July 2024, with phase one including applications for the Rackham Graduate Student Research Grant, Rackham Conference Travel Grant, and Rackham Graduate Student Emergency Funds. Rackham will continue to roll out all existing Rackham awards in phases as we strive to enhance the funding opportunities and services available.

Which Rackham awards will be included in the initial phase?

The initial phase will include applications for three of the smaller Rackham awards: the Rackham Graduate Student Research Grant, Rackham Conference Travel Grant, and Rackham Graduate Student Emergency Funds.

What are the highlights of the new system for users?

Users can expect the following key benefits:

• A user-friendly dashboard accessible on mobile devices.
• Single sign-on access using familiar U-M login credentials.
• The capability to apply, edit, and track applications without re-entering personal information repeatedly.
• A smart system that only displays eligible fellowships to students.

How will the new system change the application process for faculty and students?

One of the biggest changes is the transition from requiring letters of recommendation to using a simple endorsement process within the platform for research grants and conference travel grants. This allows faculty and research advisors to quickly endorse applications with just a few clicks, even from a mobile phone.

Where can I find step-by-step instructions for faculty or research advisor endorsements?

Detailed endorsement instructions will be available in the new portal and on the Rackham website.

What happens if a faculty or research advisor does not endorse an application?

If an advisor chooses not to endorse an application by selecting the “I do not support this application” radio button, the student will be informed by the Rackham Finance and Fellowships team, and the application will not proceed to funding.

Will the current application process remain available during the transition?

Yes, the current application system will remain available until the full implementation of the new system to ensure a smooth transition.

What should faculty or research advisors do if they encounter issues during the endorsement process?

If any issues arise, faculty or research advisors are encouraged to contact the Rackham Finance and Fellowships team at [email protected] for support.

How will faculty or research advisors receive notifications about applications requiring their action?

Advisors will receive an email with a “View” button to directly access the application in need of endorsement. Automatic email reminder notifications will also be sent every Monday for any pending actions.

Can faculty or research advisors check for pending applications without waiting for an email notification?

Yes, starting in July, advisors can visit the Rackham Awards Management Portal and click on the “REVIEWS” tab at the top of the page or “MENU” dropdown, followed by “REVIEWS” (depending on the device being used) to check for pending applications anytime. You will not see any reviews if you have not been assigned any to complete.