Review Timelines
Animal Care and Use Program
Keep in mind that your specific protocol or modification review timeline can vary depending on the completeness, clarity of the submission, and complexity of the procedures.
Current Estimated Review Timelines
The timelines below account for the IACUC review process and are subject to change. PIs (and other protocol personnel) are expected to respond promptly to feedback, delayed responses will extend time to determination.
New Protocols and Triennial Review/De novo submissions: 9-11 weeks
- Major Modifications
- Includes a new facility/location or new species: 9-11 weeks
- No new facility/location or new species: 5-7 weeks
- Minor (Administrative) Modifications: 1 week
- Accepted, reviewed, and determinations issued year-round by ACAUP staff.
As noted in the submission forms, to ensure fairness, the Animal Care and Use Program/IACUC reviews applications according to submission order; however, we will assign higher priority to projects with externally imposed timelines beyond the researcher’s control. Researchers must contact us directly and immediately if such a situation exists (e.g. time-sensitive grant funding deadlines).
Submission Deadlines for Summer and Early Fall 2026 Projects
New protocols and major modifications are not reviewed during the summer. All materials for new protocols and major modifications must be received by the dates below to be on track for IACUC review before the end of spring quarter. We recommend requesting a Veterinary Consult if you have questions before submission.
New Protocols: March 31
- Major Modifications
- Includes a new facility/location or a new species: March 31
- No new facility/location or new species: April 13
- Minor Modifications: Accepted, reviewed, and determinations issued year-round by ACAUP staff.
Read more about review timelines including what to expect during summer and university breaks.
Review of New Protocols and Major Modifications During Summer and University Breaks
IACUC review during University breaks and during the summer is different from fall, winter, and spring quarter review. The guidance below for new protocols and major modifications is subject to change. The "steps" linked below refer to the IACUC review process.
Summer
- Veterinary Consults will be offered and are strongly recommended for efficient review when the committee returns.
- New Protocols and Major Modifications: Complete submissions are accepted at any time to be added to the queue for when review resumes in the fall.
- Minor Administrative Modifications are accepted, reviewed, and determinations issued year-round by ACAUP staff.
Winter and Spring Breaks
- Veterinary Consults will be offered but availability may be limited.
- New Protocols and Major Modifications: Complete submissions are accepted at any time to be added to the queue for when review resumes after break.
- Minor Administrative Modifications are accepted, reviewed, and determinations issued year-round by ACAUP staff.
University Holidays such as Thanksgiving Break and MLK Jr. Day
- Veterinary Consults will be unavailable.
- New Protocols and Major Modifications
- Minor Administrative Modifications processing will be paused.
Preparing for Review: Resources, Checklists, and Tips for Efficiency
Review the resources linked below before beginning a protocol or modification submission.
Resources for Researchers including guidance for Alternatives to Animal Use, 3Rs, Literature Searches, Species Specific Resources, Required Facility Inspections, Required Training, Occupational Safety, and more.
New Protocols
Modifications
Veterinary Consults Available for Projects in Development
PIs are encouraged to request a virtual consultation with the Attending Veterinarian (AV) early in their protocol or major modification development.
We strongly recommend that researchers reach out early to share upcoming animal research/teaching ideas that are in the ideation stage (like when you are applying for funding). A brief conversation with us about your ideas and plans can help us provide specific initial guidance for a well written and complete protocol that moves through the IACUC review process efficiently. Note: These consultations will not take the place of pre-review (steps 3-5 of the protocol and major modification review process). Appointments must be scheduled in advance and are not available the same day as the request is sent.