Applications

Attention new faculty: Welcome to NIU's IRB webpage! Please feel free to contact the ORC if you have any questions throughout the review process. Also, please note, if you are continuing to analyze identifiable data that were collected at your previous institution, you are required to submit an IRB application requesting permission to analyze previously collected data that contain identifiers.

• Do you need IRB review? 
  IRB Screening Form (Word)
• IRB Application (Word)
• Application for Continuation of Approval
• Application for Waiver of Consent (Word)
• Guidelines for protocols involving physical activity and exercise
• Checklist of General Requirements for the Informed Consent Document

Please keep in mind: audio and videotaping require a separate statement of consent and a separate signature/date line on the consent form.

• Sample Consent Form for Adults (PDF)
• Sample Consent Form (Adults) -- Focus Groups (PDF)

Use the consent form linked from this page when conducting a study with focus groups. The primary difference is that this form includes a statement about the researcher's inability to guarantee confidentiality among the group members.

• Sample Permission Form for Parents/Guardians of Minors  (PDF)
• Sample Phone Survey Script (PDF)
• Questions to be addressed in Consent Forms for Minors (PDF)
• Elements of Assent
• Sample short form for non-English speaking subjects (PDF)
• Counseling Resources in DeKalb (suggested referral list) (PDF)
• Certificate Of Confidentiality Program 
  Investigators may request confidentiality certificates for research involving sensitive information, e.g., sexual practices, attitudes, or orientation; substance abuse or illegal conduct; or information that could lead to social stigmatization or discrimination if disclosed. Once the certificate is issued, researchers are authorized to protect privacy, and identifying information may not be compelled by court orders or subpoenas. The certificates are available whether or not the research is federally funded.
• Guidance on Certificates of Confidentiality Program (Feb 25, 2003: Note: This guidance replaces the 9/1998 OHRP guidance)
• NIMH: Privacy Protection for Research Subjects: Certificates of Confidentiality (Frequently Asked Questions and Application Instructions)
• NIH: Certificates of Confidentiality Kiosk