The Department of Education has released revised common instructions for applicants to discretionary grant programs, superseding the December 7, 2022, version. These instructions aim for clarity and now include guidance on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in applications. Key requirements for applicants include obtaining an application package from the Department's website or Grants.gov, adhering to content and formatting rules, and possessing a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) while maintaining an active System for Award Management (SAM.gov) registration. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by the deadline, with provisions for technical issues. While AI use is allowed, applicants are responsible for ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of their AI-assisted submissions. Paper applications are discouraged but permitted with prior written notification and proof of mailing. The document also provides contact information for assistance and details on accessible formats for individuals with disabilities.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for new awards for the Assistance for Arts Education (AAE) program for fiscal year 2025. This program aims to promote arts education for all students, including disadvantaged students and those with disabilities, through professional development, instructional material development, and community partnerships. Eligible applicants include local educational agencies (LEAs) where at least 20% of students are from low-income families, State educational agencies, institutions of higher education, museums, cultural institutions, the Bureau of Indian Education, and eligible national nonprofit organizations. The application deadline is August 25, 2025. Approximately $13,000,000 is available, with estimated individual awards ranging from $750,000 to $1,000,000 per year for a project period of up to 60 months. A competitive priority is given to eligible national nonprofit organizations (0 or 15 points), and an invitational priority encourages projects focusing on patriotic education. Projects must promote arts education and coordinate with cultural agencies. Selection criteria focus on project design quality, management plan, and adequacy of resources. Grantees will be required to submit annual performance reports based on established measures, including student participation, professional development hours, and material dissemination. This competition does not require cost sharing or matching, but funds must supplement, not supplant, non-Federal funds. Subgrants are not permitted.