NIH Updates Data Management and Sharing Plan (DMSP) Format

NIH has issued a new 2026 Pilot DMS Plan format based on a simplified set of required elements to use when preparing Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Plans (NOT-OD-26-046). The revised elements, many of which are straightforward yes or no questions rather than narratives, limit the information included in the DMS Plans, increase efficiency, and minimize applicant burden.

The NIH DMS policy that went into effect in 2023 has not changed. NIH has simply adjusted our implementation of required DMS Plans and their approach to compliance to clarify common areas of confusion and reflect lessons learned since the 2023 rollout. They are implementing this updated format as a pilot and will evaluate the need for additional updates over the next year.

Applicants and recipients are required to use the new format for applications with due dates on or after May 25, 2026. Both the new format and the 2023 format will be accepted for due dates before May 25. If you are just starting to prepare your DMS Plan, we recommend using the new, simplified format. 

The NIH's Writing a Data Management and Sharing Plan page now reflects the new elements and provides helpful tips for preparing DMS plans. 

The update replaces the previous guidance for DMS Plan elements (NOT-OD-21-014).

FAQs and other resources will be added to our Data Management and Sharing Plan Format Page as they become available.