research proposal sample for scholarship

How to Write Research Proposal For Scholarship Applications? With Examples September 18, 2024 by Digital Vaults Editorial Team

If you’re lucky enough to have the chance to apply for a scholarship, it’s essential to consider that you will likely need to write a study proposal. While this can feel daunting, it’s not that difficult, so long as you know where to start and what you hope to achieve!

Why is a Research Proposal for a Scholarship Important?

Before we go any further, it’s worth considering why you’re putting effort into the study proposal. Indeed, knowing the value or weighting of a task often makes it much easier to stick to!

So, what’s the importance of a research proposal? A good research proposal demonstrates why your project and approach would fit the requirements well.

Invariably, an organization costs much money to provide a funded scholarship . As such, your study proposal allows you to demonstrate the value you’ll bring to the business. In other words, it’s a way of showing the scholarship provider that you are a valuable asset to their work.

As such, your study proposal drastically boosts the strength and appeal of your scholarship application. Remember: going for a scholarship is hugely competitive. As a result, making your application stand out is essential. This is where your study proposal can help.

So, don’t leave things to chance if you want to boost your study proposal.

Key Things to Include In Your Study Proposal Scholarship

By now, we’ve looked at what a study proposal is and why it is essential for your application. But what are some critical things you should include in your study proposal?

Generally, the key things you will need to include in your study proposal include the following points.

#1 Introductory Information

The most obvious thing your study proposal should include is introductory information. Indeed, introductory information (e.g., the title of your research proposal, the primary goals you’re hoping to achieve, etc.) is critical. This shows the reviewer of the study proposal how the research might relate to the company’s goals.

#2 Your Background

You need more than just the topics you intend to study for your scholarship. In your study proposal, you should also cover why you’re a good fit for the role – in other words, what is your background? What is your understanding of the topic, and how does this relate to your proposed topic? Considering this will directly influence your application, demonstrating that you are qualified and knowledgeable to approach the subject.

#3 Key Questions

As well as introducing the topic, it’s vital to ensure that your study proposal addresses any key questions relating to your topic. In other words, what problems are you addressing? How will looking at these issues help solve and improve social or economic aspects?

#4 Time Frames

As well as answering the critical questions of your study, your study proposal should indicate expected timelines and deadlines for the work. This helps ensure that the research proposal reviewer can see when you’ll aim to deliver the work and whether this comfortably meets the timeframe for the scholarship.

When planning your time frames, it’s essential to consider that a full-time study offer will usually have a four-year timeline to completion. This includes writing up your research in the third year. Meanwhile, for part-time study, you will likely have around six years to study and two more years to write up your results.

Make sure your proposed time frames fit into this comfortably. This ensures you’ve demonstrated that you will be a good candidate for the scholarship. After all, why would a business want to accept a scholarship applicant who couldn’t complete the study on time?

Steps to Write a Study Proposal Scholarship

At this point, we have outlined some of the main things you need to know about what is included in a study proposal. However, that doesn’t directly help with writing the scholarship. The following outline should help create an effective, reliable, and valuable study proposal.

Make a Summary of Key Points

Before you begin writing your scholarship study proposal, summarize the key points we mentioned before. These key points need to be included in your study proposal. Outlining them is very important to ensure a clear focus on how the study proposal should look.

Start with your Cover Page

A cover page is a surprisingly important part of your research proposal. Indeed, the cover page provides a simple introduction to the proposal, shows that you can work professionally, and shows an additional level of determination above the bare minimum. Remember: the institution will use your study proposal to assess whether you’re a responsible, hard-working fit for the scholarship.

Create an Introduction

Don’t try to jump immediately into the body of the study proposal. Take things one step at a time by starting with the introduction.

Your introduction needs to cover all of the basics of your study research. As such, it should outline the main points, such as the title of your project and the main research problem. However, it should also briefly hint at your experience and inspiration for the project. However, be brief here, as this will be addressed further in the later sections.

It’s essential to ensure the introduction also covers your main research objectives. Failing to express these could result in your application holding less merit and strength than others.

As a key tip: keep the title of your research proposal simple. Your chosen title should be simultaneously informative and straightforward to understand. This will help the reader understand quickly the exact niche you will focus on and how this could benefit the institution’s goals.

Complete a Literature Review

Once you’ve outlined the main points behind your research proposal and introduced the concept, you can begin your literature review.

A literature review offers a straightforward yet highly effective way to show the current understanding surrounding the topic. With this thought in mind, try to go relatively in-depth with your analysis here. Of course, this only requires a partial analysis of the topic. You don’t have an unlimited word count to work with (yet), and you’ll want to leave some of that for the main body of your research!

However, presenting a thorough, well-researched overview of the available literature should be enough. Try to find research from within your country and internationally to present diverse viewpoints. You don’t need to expand on these, but summarize the key findings of each of the addressed studies. You could also mention their strengths and weaknesses.

Once you have done so, completing the literature review becomes very easy! The literature review should highlight any well-established knowledge. It should also highlight where knowledge is lacking or missing and how this relates to what you will address in your research.

Present the Research Methodology

Once you have determined what you intend to research and how this relates to the literature review, you can outline your methodology. Summarizing the key things you intend to address makes this much more accessible.

While you won’t necessarily need to present every little detail, your research methodology should be thorough enough to cover all the main points. Try to dedicate half a page to a full page on this section. Make sure you also mention the strengths and weaknesses of your methodology. Be sure also to explain why you can’t address the weaknesses directly.

In the methodology section, adding a timeline can be incredibly helpful. This will demonstrate how you intend to complete the research.

It also shows when you will complete each section and so on. In addition, dividing your work into stages can make it easier to stick to the schedule if you achieve the scholarship. So, this is well worth paying attention to.

Don’t be overly ambitious; set realistic deadlines you can meet rather than speedy deadlines you’ll struggle to keep up with. Missing deadlines look terrible on your research and can be disheartening. This will make a vicious cycle where you only get more and more behind.

Outline Funding Requirements

Unfortunately, conducting thorough research isn’t free! With this thought in mind, you’ll need to outline funding requirements for the research. In other words, how much will you need for the scholarship?

Be sure to calculate this section very carefully. If you ask for less funding, the scholarship institution will likely look for someone else who can do the work more affordably. However, you may need to ask for more to make ends meet. Indeed, getting more funding can often be very hard once a price has been agreed upon for the scholarship. So, the importance of calculating this carefully is vital.

Bibliography

Throughout your research proposal, including a diverse range of references can back up your application and show how much work you’ve done towards it. However, it’s essential to remember that you’ll need to include a bibliography at the end of your research to give full credit to any authors you’ve referenced.

Be sure to check which referencing style your institution expects before getting started. If your institution expects a specific referencing style to be used, now’s the perfect time to demonstrate your skills and how you could bring value to the project.

How Long Should my Research Proposal Be?

You may now be wondering how long your research proposal should be. Well, this entirely depends on how you write, how much you must cover in the proposal, etc. However, your research proposal should be between 2500 and 3500 words.

As such, a specific aim for your research paper will be around five to seven pages. However, this final figure will depend on how you write and the font or formatting you choose.

If you still need to hit the 2500 words mark, take the opportunity to expand your proposal further. Remember, a lot is riding on this! But, you should be good if your research paper is already at 2500 words or more.

If you go over 3500 words, remember that the reader may begin to lose interest. Condensing an excessively long study proposal can make it much easier for the reader to take in.

Final Thoughts

If you have been wondering about how to write a study proposal for a scholarship , there are several vital things in this regard that you should consider. Fortunately, there are numerous ways you can boost your results by writing a study proposal for a scholarship. Today’s essential tips may have helped here.

After all, while no simple solution will immediately create the perfect study proposal for your scholarship, you can take many excellent steps. These help you find suitable options to boost your application.

Good luck – but with an excellent study proposal, you won’t need it so much anyway!

You can find full list of documents required for scholarship here.

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Proposal tools, proposal samples, proposal narrative samples.

• NSF BCS Human-Environment and Geographical Sciences Program

Complete Proposal Samples

• NSF Proposal (Biological Sciences - DBI)
• NSF Proposal (Geosciences - AGS)
• NSF Proposal (Geosciences - OCE)
• NSF Proposal (Geosciences - DUE - IUSE)
• NSF Proposal (Physical Sciences - DUE - IUSE)
• NSF Proposal (Social Sciences - DUE - ATE)
• NSF CAREER Proposal (Geosciences - EAR)
• NSF EAGER Proposal (Social Sciences - BCS)
• NSF EAGER Proposal (Social Sciences - HRD - Core Research)
• NSF RAPID Proposal (Geosciences - DEB)
• NIH R01 Proposal
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• NEH Proposal
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• ACLS Proposal (Philosophy)
• ACLS Proposal (History)
• ACLS Proposal (World Language)
• NASA Proposal

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Biographical sketches.

See NSF Biographical Sketches .

Facilities & Equipment Descriptions

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Data Management Plans

Data Management and Open Access Storage (at USF) blurb :

A long term (indefinite) data preservation plan will be used to store the data beyond the life of the project, using Digital Commons Data, a USF Libraries supported, accessible, data management repository.

Digital Commons Data adheres to FAIR principles of Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reuse. All data is "archived in perpetuity for long-term availability, with Data Archiving and​ Networked Services" ( https://www.elsevier.com/solutions/digital-commons/data ). To support open data, all published datasets will have a clear license and a DOI for ease of citation.

Digital Commons Data is a module of Digital Commons, an institutional repository system used by the USF Libraries. In use since 2007, the USF Libraries has supported persistent access and preservation to scholarly works and datasets created at USF with Digital Commons. The datasets created as a result of this project align with key library research collections, notably the Florida Environment and Natural History Collections Initiative ( https://lib.usf.edu/library-administration/innovative-research-collections/ ).

See our guide on how to use the repository: https://guides.lib.usf.edu/dcd

• NSF DMP (Biological Sciences - DBI)
• NSF DMP (Geosciences - DEB)
• NSF DMP (Physical Sciences - DUE - IUSE)
• NSF DMP (Social Sciences - HRD - Core Research)

NSF CAREER Post-Doctoral Mentoring Plans

• NSF CAREER Post-Doctoral Mentoring Plan

Graphics & Captions

• Samples that demonstrate how graphics and captions propel proposals forward.

USF CAS Core Facilities Descriptions & Available Equipment

• CAS Core Facilities Descriptions & Available Equipment

Research Proposal for Scholarship Applications with Example [Pro Guide]

A research proposal is a scientific letter proposing a scientific project with research objectives, plan of execution, enlisting expected challenges, briefing on required equipment or facilities, and funding grant. An impressive research proposal also shed some light on the impact of the proposed research outcomes on society and, environment.

A research proposal is an integral part of the scholarship application purpose, whether national or international. Preparing a document like a research proposal is always considered a hectic task. But, as you are reading this article, you better do not worry anymore! This article is going to address all the queries you have about writing an impressive yet detailed research proposal, and also provide you a pro guide that you can use to start writing your research proposal today.

What does a Research Proposal do?

The research proposal serves as the introduction of your entire proposed research study. Moreover, it is drafted in a way that it actually guides the reader on what the research is going to be with what results can be expected from it. It provides insights on expected challenges, required facilities, and funding too. Besides all that, it lets the reader know what measures have already been taken to enhance the outcomes of the planned research. Also, it manifests your skill levels and the level of knowledge you possess in the relevant field. Furthermore, the research proposal gives the reader some hints about the methodology you are going to pursue. 

Why do I need to write a research proposal?

A research proposal assists you in presenting your proposed research in a comprehensive manner. It lets you explain the important objectives of it. Also, you get to address the potential questions in advance. So when you are being interviewed, the interviewer is left with a limited number of questions as the most significant questions have already been answered by the proposal itself. In short, it is your chance to express the ‘core objective’ of your research. 

How long should a research proposal be?

According to contemporary standards, a research proposal should be spread across 4-6 pages and consist of around 2500-3500 words.

ProGuideguide to Draft a Winning Research Proposal:

#1 Prepare a cover page

The cover page is undoubtedly the first impression of not just your proposal but the entire research. It should contain the following key elements:

• Title of the research
• Supervisor’s name
• The name of the affiliated institution

Moreover, give your cover page some suitable background and choose formal font style. Make it look professional and decent.

#2 Write the introduction with Research Objectives

Introduction enjoys the starting part of the proposal. It plays a very crucial role in setting the mood of the reader. After a decent-looking cover page, if the reader encounters a well-formatted and well-written introduction, the chances of success automatically go high. The fundamental task of the introduction is to introduce the objective of the research. Moreover, it also states the background and the precious developments in the relevant field. In addition to all that, the emphasis should be on the gaps that have been left behind by the previous researches in the same field. Your attitude of filling the current gaps makes the reader acknowledge your professionalism. Moreover, you also need to shed some light on the possible outcomes of your research.

#3 Give due attention to the literature review

You mention the literature you have concerned in the process of learning more about your research objective. The literature review shows the reader your enthusiasm for your research. Moreover, it also manifest that your research is not something novel and has a background. Another plus point of a well-formatted literature review is its capability to let the leader know what has already been accomplished in the relevant field and what exactly your research is going to contribute.

#4 Write down your research methodology

In this part of the proposal you simply mention the steps you are going to take to achieve the desired outcomes. In other words, the ‘research methodology’ states your approach to the research. This helps the reader assess the practicality of your research. Hence, you have to be very accurate with this portion of the proposal. You better analyze every point you mention as an examiner too. See whether your points make sense or not. Also, mention the limits of your methodology. In short, be realistic with your approach.

#5 Mention a timeline

Divide your research into a number of stages. Then mention the possible time you need to reach each stage and also the standard time you like to allot each stage. The timeline includes everything; from the start to the very end of the research including the literary work. The timeline helps you as well as the institution keep track of the research. Moreover, it serves as a reminder when you are into the depths of your research giving excessive time to a specific stage.

#6 State the required funds

You simply mention the budget of your entire research. To make it understandable, you have to break the research into parts and state how much will each part cost. Carefully mention all the expenses. As once you have been allocated an amount, you hardly get any additional cash. 

#7 Bibliography or referencing

This includes references to research papers, articles, or books you have mentioned anywhere in your entire proposal. 

Research Proposal Must Be Factual and Write it in Scientific Tone!

• Do not give your research an ambiguous title. Be straightforward and simple with it.
• The writing should manifest relevant jargon. However, the language should be understandable- in other words, reader-friendly.
• If you don’t consider yourself too good’ with language, you can seek the help of a language professional. Unfortunately, language errors have a very negative effect on the overall outcomes. 
• Write brief sentences. Sentences that state the core idea only.

Staff Fully-fundedScholarships

Scholarship Proposal

Proposal maker.

There is no doubt that education is costly, particularly now, the costs of most institutions continue to climb year after year. Because of such, many business owners, schools, and companies want to offer scholarships . However, they are not aware of where to start and how to write a winning scholarship proposal. It will be impossible to determine what distinguishes all scholarship applications. Each will provide a unique glimpse into the author’s history and future ambitions. Also, the distinct style utilized by the author.

To give you more idea about scholarship proposal, here are sample templates and tips that can help:

6+ Scholarship Proposal Examples

1. university scholarship proposal template.

• Google Docs
• Apple Pages

Size: 46 KB

2. Scholarship Project Proposal Format

Size: 395 KB

3. Undergraduate Scholarship Proposal

Size: 12 KB

4. Graduate Scholarship Proposal

Size: 414 KB

5. Sample Scholarship Proposal

Size: 477 KB

6. Rural Scholarship Proposal for Dental Students

Size: 536 KB

7. Scholarship Committee Proposal

Size: 276 KB

What Is a Scholarship Proposal? 

A scholarship proposa l is a written paper that asks donors to include a financial budget, financing, or expenditure. This plan paper must be correct and concise since the investors would use it to determine whether or not to approve the fund offer. A competent academic proposal plan should include the project’s priorities, information about the agency, and the amount needed.

Scholarship review boards have a variety of information to consider before determining who should get a scholarship. In certain circumstances, the decision is created based on intellectual merit or economic considerations.

How to Write a Scholarship Proposal?

Many company owners are inexperienced when it comes to drafting a scholarship proposal. Although you haven’t learned the process in school, it does not means that it should be a difficult job. In fact, you can do some research about it. By that, you can have an idea of the factors that you will need to consider during the process.

To make your proposal as quick and reliable as possible, follow these steps.

Step 1: Project Summary 

In the project summary , make sure to include a one-page overview of the plan, outlining the initiative’s intent, priorities, and anticipated effects. After that, prepare the conclusion. Don’t forget to read everything before you proceed. 

Step 2: Table of Contents 

The table of contents is also one of the proposal’s final bits. For short plans, there is no need for a table of contents. You can only set aside two or three pages for this section. However, you can add another sheet, depending on your proposal. 

Step 3: Project Narrative 

The highlight of the scholarship proposal’s is the project plot, which usually includes the following elements:  

• Background Information  
• Objectives  
• Activities  
• Timeline of Activities  
• Evaluation Plan

Step 4: Budget Requirements 

Make a list of the project’s financial conditions. Group line items accordingly and make sure to include all the information needed. Present the budget for next year if you are doing a multi-year project.

How to ask for a scholarship?

Many people are confused about where to ask for a scholarship. Actually, it’s easy. You can only send an email to the school’s admissions office to seek further scholarship funds. But make sure to personalize the message to avoid making a negative impact on the letter’s recipient. It’s critical to make a great first impression, whether they’re from the admissions office or another  business .

Can you negotiate a scholarship offer?

There is no danger of trying to discuss your scholarship bid, regardless of how you go about it. Since you asked for more funding, a college would not revoke your admission or remove the money they have provided.

What is the procedure for requesting a tuition reduction?

To inquire about additional  financial assistance  and tuition discounts, contact your school’s financial assistance office or bursar office and ask for their preferred method. They can assist with this concern. So, don’t hesitate to ask them.

Although seeking a scholarship may seem easy, drafting a scholarship application is a difficult task. As a result, you must remember the steps above. There are also scholarship proposal templates available to make your job easier, smoother, and more successful. Download them now!

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Compose a proposal for a school field trip to a science museum.

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Research Proposal for Scholarship Applications in 2024

If you are going to apply for a scholarship in 2024 then you may be asked to provide a detailed research proposal with your application. So in this article, you will be able to find information about what this research proposal is and how to draft one for your next scholarship application in 2024.

This article covers key aspects such as the definition and importance of a research proposal, strategies for highlighting the novelty of the research idea, the appropriate length for different scholarships, a breakdown of the 13 essential elements of a research proposal, tips for selecting a title, writing an abstract, and concluding the proposal, as well as a list of useful software tools. This guide is invaluable for students seeking scholarships, offering them detailed insights and practical tips to enhance their research proposals and increase their chances of success.

A research proposal is a document that outlines the plan for a research project. It is used to propose a research study and request funding or a scholarship. The proposal should provide a detailed explanation of the proposed research, its significance, methodology, and expected outcomes.

Focusing on the Novelty of the Proposed Research Idea

To stand out, your research proposal should present a novel idea or approach. This involves:

• Identifying gaps in existing research.
• Proposing innovative methodologies or perspectives.
• Demonstrating how your research can contribute to the field.

Ideal Length of a Research Proposal for Scholarship Applications

The length of a research proposal can vary depending on the scholarship type. For instance:

• Rhodes Scholarship: Up to 1,000 words.
• China CSC Scholarship: Up to 1200 words.
• Fulbright Scholarship: Typically 3-5 pages.
• NSF Graduate Research Fellowship: Around 2-3 pages.

It’s crucial to adhere to the guidelines provided by each scholarship body.

Drafting the 13 Different Elements of a Research Proposal

• Title: Brief and descriptive.
• Abstract: A summary of your research proposal.
• Introduction: Background and significance of the study.
• Literature Review: Analysis of existing research.
• Research Questions/Hypotheses: Clear and focused questions or hypotheses.
• Methodology: Detailed description of research methods.
• Ethical Considerations: Address any ethical issues.
• Timeline: Projected schedule for the research.
• Budget: Estimated cost and justification.
• Expected Outcomes: Anticipated results and impact.
• Dissemination Plan: How you will share your findings.
• References: Citing sources used in your proposal.
• Appendices: Any supplementary material.

How to Add Citations?

Citations are crucial for acknowledging sources. Software like Zotero, Mendeley, and EndNote can be used for managing and formatting references in your research proposal. Therefore, i suggest you to get familiar with these softwares.

Selecting the Title of Your Research Proposal

The title of your research proposal should be concise, descriptive, and capture the essence of your research. It should engage the reader’s interest and give a clear idea of the project’s focus.

Writing the Abstract and Highlights of the Research Proposal

• Abstract: A 150-250 word summary that includes your research question, methodology, and potential impact.
• Highlights: 3-5 bullet points summarizing the key aspects or innovative elements of your proposal.

Writing the Conclusion

The conclusion of a research proposal should reiterate the importance of your research, its potential contributions to the field, and why it deserves funding, scholarship, fellowship or grant.

List of Software Used in Writing a Research Proposal in 2024

If you are going to start writing your research proposal now then make sure to have good fluency in any of the following softwares:

• Reference Management: Zotero, Mendeley, EndNote.
• Writing and Formatting: Microsoft Word, LaTeX.
• Data Analysis (if applicable): SPSS, R, Python.
• Project Management: Trello, Asana.

A well-crafted research proposal is your ticket to securing a scholarship. It requires a clear understanding of your research objectives, a thorough literature review, a robust methodology, and the ability to communicate your ideas effectively. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of creating a proposal that stands out in the competitive world of academic scholarships.

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17 Research Proposal Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

A research proposal systematically and transparently outlines a proposed research project.

The purpose of a research proposal is to demonstrate a project’s viability and the researcher’s preparedness to conduct an academic study. It serves as a roadmap for the researcher.

The process holds value both externally (for accountability purposes and often as a requirement for a grant application) and intrinsic value (for helping the researcher to clarify the mechanics, purpose, and potential signficance of the study).

Key sections of a research proposal include: the title, abstract, introduction, literature review, research design and methods, timeline, budget, outcomes and implications, references, and appendix. Each is briefly explained below.

Watch my Guide: How to Write a Research Proposal

Get your Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

Research Proposal Sample Structure

Title: The title should present a concise and descriptive statement that clearly conveys the core idea of the research projects. Make it as specific as possible. The reader should immediately be able to grasp the core idea of the intended research project. Often, the title is left too vague and does not help give an understanding of what exactly the study looks at.

Abstract: Abstracts are usually around 250-300 words and provide an overview of what is to follow – including the research problem , objectives, methods, expected outcomes, and significance of the study. Use it as a roadmap and ensure that, if the abstract is the only thing someone reads, they’ll get a good fly-by of what will be discussed in the peice.

Introduction: Introductions are all about contextualization. They often set the background information with a statement of the problem. At the end of the introduction, the reader should understand what the rationale for the study truly is. I like to see the research questions or hypotheses included in the introduction and I like to get a good understanding of what the significance of the research will be. It’s often easiest to write the introduction last

Literature Review: The literature review dives deep into the existing literature on the topic, demosntrating your thorough understanding of the existing literature including themes, strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the literature. It serves both to demonstrate your knowledge of the field and, to demonstrate how the proposed study will fit alongside the literature on the topic. A good literature review concludes by clearly demonstrating how your research will contribute something new and innovative to the conversation in the literature.

Research Design and Methods: This section needs to clearly demonstrate how the data will be gathered and analyzed in a systematic and academically sound manner. Here, you need to demonstrate that the conclusions of your research will be both valid and reliable. Common points discussed in the research design and methods section include highlighting the research paradigm, methodologies, intended population or sample to be studied, data collection techniques, and data analysis procedures . Toward the end of this section, you are encouraged to also address ethical considerations and limitations of the research process , but also to explain why you chose your research design and how you are mitigating the identified risks and limitations.

Timeline: Provide an outline of the anticipated timeline for the study. Break it down into its various stages (including data collection, data analysis, and report writing). The goal of this section is firstly to establish a reasonable breakdown of steps for you to follow and secondly to demonstrate to the assessors that your project is practicable and feasible.

Budget: Estimate the costs associated with the research project and include evidence for your estimations. Typical costs include staffing costs, equipment, travel, and data collection tools. When applying for a scholarship, the budget should demonstrate that you are being responsible with your expensive and that your funding application is reasonable.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: A discussion of the anticipated findings or results of the research, as well as the potential contributions to the existing knowledge, theory, or practice in the field. This section should also address the potential impact of the research on relevant stakeholders and any broader implications for policy or practice.

References: A complete list of all the sources cited in the research proposal, formatted according to the required citation style. This demonstrates the researcher’s familiarity with the relevant literature and ensures proper attribution of ideas and information.

Appendices (if applicable): Any additional materials, such as questionnaires, interview guides, or consent forms, that provide further information or support for the research proposal. These materials should be included as appendices at the end of the document.

Research Proposal Examples

Research proposals often extend anywhere between 2,000 and 15,000 words in length. The following snippets are samples designed to briefly demonstrate what might be discussed in each section.

1. Education Studies Research Proposals

See some real sample pieces:

• Assessment of the perceptions of teachers towards a new grading system
• Does ICT use in secondary classrooms help or hinder student learning?
• Digital technologies in focus project
• Urban Middle School Teachers’ Experiences of the Implementation of
• Restorative Justice Practices
• Experiences of students of color in service learning

Consider this hypothetical education research proposal:

The Impact of Game-Based Learning on Student Engagement and Academic Performance in Middle School Mathematics

Abstract: The proposed study will explore multiplayer game-based learning techniques in middle school mathematics curricula and their effects on student engagement. The study aims to contribute to the current literature on game-based learning by examining the effects of multiplayer gaming in learning.

Introduction: Digital game-based learning has long been shunned within mathematics education for fears that it may distract students or lower the academic integrity of the classrooms. However, there is emerging evidence that digital games in math have emerging benefits not only for engagement but also academic skill development. Contributing to this discourse, this study seeks to explore the potential benefits of multiplayer digital game-based learning by examining its impact on middle school students’ engagement and academic performance in a mathematics class.

Literature Review: The literature review has identified gaps in the current knowledge, namely, while game-based learning has been extensively explored, the role of multiplayer games in supporting learning has not been studied.

Research Design and Methods: This study will employ a mixed-methods research design based upon action research in the classroom. A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control group design will first be used to compare the academic performance and engagement of middle school students exposed to game-based learning techniques with those in a control group receiving instruction without the aid of technology. Students will also be observed and interviewed in regard to the effect of communication and collaboration during gameplay on their learning.

Timeline: The study will take place across the second term of the school year with a pre-test taking place on the first day of the term and the post-test taking place on Wednesday in Week 10.

Budget: The key budgetary requirements will be the technologies required, including the subscription cost for the identified games and computers.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: It is expected that the findings will contribute to the current literature on game-based learning and inform educational practices, providing educators and policymakers with insights into how to better support student achievement in mathematics.

2. Psychology Research Proposals

See some real examples:

• A situational analysis of shared leadership in a self-managing team
• The effect of musical preference on running performance
• Relationship between self-esteem and disordered eating amongst adolescent females

Consider this hypothetical psychology research proposal:

The Effects of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Stress Reduction in College Students

Abstract: This research proposal examines the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress reduction among college students, using a pre-test/post-test experimental design with both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods .

Introduction: College students face heightened stress levels during exam weeks. This can affect both mental health and test performance. This study explores the potential benefits of mindfulness-based interventions such as meditation as a way to mediate stress levels in the weeks leading up to exam time.

Literature Review: Existing research on mindfulness-based meditation has shown the ability for mindfulness to increase metacognition, decrease anxiety levels, and decrease stress. Existing literature has looked at workplace, high school and general college-level applications. This study will contribute to the corpus of literature by exploring the effects of mindfulness directly in the context of exam weeks.

Research Design and Methods: Participants ( n= 234 ) will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group, receiving 5 days per week of 10-minute mindfulness-based interventions, or a control group, receiving no intervention. Data will be collected through self-report questionnaires, measuring stress levels, semi-structured interviews exploring participants’ experiences, and students’ test scores.

Timeline: The study will begin three weeks before the students’ exam week and conclude after each student’s final exam. Data collection will occur at the beginning (pre-test of self-reported stress levels) and end (post-test) of the three weeks.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: The study aims to provide evidence supporting the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing stress among college students in the lead up to exams, with potential implications for mental health support and stress management programs on college campuses.

3. Sociology Research Proposals

• Understanding emerging social movements: A case study of ‘Jersey in Transition’
• The interaction of health, education and employment in Western China
• Can we preserve lower-income affordable neighbourhoods in the face of rising costs?

Consider this hypothetical sociology research proposal:

The Impact of Social Media Usage on Interpersonal Relationships among Young Adults

Abstract: This research proposal investigates the effects of social media usage on interpersonal relationships among young adults, using a longitudinal mixed-methods approach with ongoing semi-structured interviews to collect qualitative data.

Introduction: Social media platforms have become a key medium for the development of interpersonal relationships, particularly for young adults. This study examines the potential positive and negative effects of social media usage on young adults’ relationships and development over time.

Literature Review: A preliminary review of relevant literature has demonstrated that social media usage is central to development of a personal identity and relationships with others with similar subcultural interests. However, it has also been accompanied by data on mental health deline and deteriorating off-screen relationships. The literature is to-date lacking important longitudinal data on these topics.

Research Design and Methods: Participants ( n = 454 ) will be young adults aged 18-24. Ongoing self-report surveys will assess participants’ social media usage, relationship satisfaction, and communication patterns. A subset of participants will be selected for longitudinal in-depth interviews starting at age 18 and continuing for 5 years.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of five years, including recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide insights into the complex relationship between social media usage and interpersonal relationships among young adults, potentially informing social policies and mental health support related to social media use.

4. Nursing Research Proposals

• Does Orthopaedic Pre-assessment clinic prepare the patient for admission to hospital?
• Nurses’ perceptions and experiences of providing psychological care to burns patients
• Registered psychiatric nurse’s practice with mentally ill parents and their children

Consider this hypothetical nursing research proposal:

The Influence of Nurse-Patient Communication on Patient Satisfaction and Health Outcomes following Emergency Cesarians

Abstract: This research will examines the impact of effective nurse-patient communication on patient satisfaction and health outcomes for women following c-sections, utilizing a mixed-methods approach with patient surveys and semi-structured interviews.

Introduction: It has long been known that effective communication between nurses and patients is crucial for quality care. However, additional complications arise following emergency c-sections due to the interaction between new mother’s changing roles and recovery from surgery.

Literature Review: A review of the literature demonstrates the importance of nurse-patient communication, its impact on patient satisfaction, and potential links to health outcomes. However, communication between nurses and new mothers is less examined, and the specific experiences of those who have given birth via emergency c-section are to date unexamined.

Research Design and Methods: Participants will be patients in a hospital setting who have recently had an emergency c-section. A self-report survey will assess their satisfaction with nurse-patient communication and perceived health outcomes. A subset of participants will be selected for in-depth interviews to explore their experiences and perceptions of the communication with their nurses.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of six months, including rolling recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing within the hospital.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide evidence for the significance of nurse-patient communication in supporting new mothers who have had an emergency c-section. Recommendations will be presented for supporting nurses and midwives in improving outcomes for new mothers who had complications during birth.

5. Social Work Research Proposals

• Experiences of negotiating employment and caring responsibilities of fathers post-divorce
• Exploring kinship care in the north region of British Columbia

Consider this hypothetical social work research proposal:

The Role of a Family-Centered Intervention in Preventing Homelessness Among At-Risk Youthin a working-class town in Northern England

Abstract: This research proposal investigates the effectiveness of a family-centered intervention provided by a local council area in preventing homelessness among at-risk youth. This case study will use a mixed-methods approach with program evaluation data and semi-structured interviews to collect quantitative and qualitative data .

Introduction: Homelessness among youth remains a significant social issue. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of family-centered interventions in addressing this problem and identify factors that contribute to successful prevention strategies.

Literature Review: A review of the literature has demonstrated several key factors contributing to youth homelessness including lack of parental support, lack of social support, and low levels of family involvement. It also demonstrates the important role of family-centered interventions in addressing this issue. Drawing on current evidence, this study explores the effectiveness of one such intervention in preventing homelessness among at-risk youth in a working-class town in Northern England.

Research Design and Methods: The study will evaluate a new family-centered intervention program targeting at-risk youth and their families. Quantitative data on program outcomes, including housing stability and family functioning, will be collected through program records and evaluation reports. Semi-structured interviews with program staff, participants, and relevant stakeholders will provide qualitative insights into the factors contributing to program success or failure.

Timeline: The study will be conducted over a period of six months, including recruitment, data collection, analysis, and report writing.

Budget: Expenses include access to program evaluation data, interview materials, data analysis software, and any related travel costs for in-person interviews.

Expected Outcomes and Implications: This study aims to provide evidence for the effectiveness of family-centered interventions in preventing youth homelessness, potentially informing the expansion of or necessary changes to social work practices in Northern England.

Research Proposal Template

Get your Detailed Template for Writing your Research Proposal Here (With AI Prompts!)

This is a template for a 2500-word research proposal. You may find it difficult to squeeze everything into this wordcount, but it’s a common wordcount for Honors and MA-level dissertations.

Your research proposal is where you really get going with your study. I’d strongly recommend working closely with your teacher in developing a research proposal that’s consistent with the requirements and culture of your institution, as in my experience it varies considerably. The above template is from my own courses that walk students through research proposals in a British School of Education.

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8 thoughts on “17 Research Proposal Examples”

Very excellent research proposals

very helpful

Very helpful

Dear Sir, I need some help to write an educational research proposal. Thank you.

Hi Levi, use the site search bar to ask a question and I’ll likely have a guide already written for your specific question. Thanks for reading!

very good research proposal

Thank you so much sir! ❤️

Very helpful 👌

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Research Proposal Example/Sample

Full Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template

In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.

• Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
• Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
• Proposal template (Fully editable) 

If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:

• Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
• 1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal

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Research Proposal Example: Frequently Asked Questions

Are the sample proposals real.

Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.

Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?

As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .

How do I get the research proposal template?

You can access our free proposal template here .

Is the proposal template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.

Where can I learn more about proposal writing?

For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.

For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.

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Learn how to systematically evaluate potential research topics and choose the best option for your dissertation, thesis or research paper.

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Research Proposal Essentials: 5 Critical Dos & Don’ts

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15 Comments

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