NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs
Eligibility
Institutions of higher education, school districts, and nonprofit organizations can apply, often as collaborative teams. Texas universities partnering with districts or Education Service Centers have been successful in previous cycles. Individual districts typically participate as partners rather than lead applicants.
- Lead applicants: Universities, colleges, and research organizations
- Partners: K-12 school districts, ESCs, and nonprofits
- Research-practice partnerships (RPPs) are a core program focus
- Applications through nsf.gov
Program Goals
NSF CS for All is the federal government's primary investment in K-12 computer science education. It funds research, curriculum development, teacher professional development, and research-practice partnerships that connect universities with school districts to expand CS access.
Texas universities and ESCs have been active participants in CS for All projects. The program prioritizes reaching students who have historically had less access to CS education, including rural students, girls, and students from underrepresented groups.
Application and Distribution
NSF CS for All solicitations are issued annually. Check nsf.gov for the current solicitation number and deadline. Projects range from small exploratory grants ($300K) to large-scale implementation projects ($3M+). Allow 3-6 months for proposal development.
Grant Award Amount
Awards range from $300,000 to over $3 million depending on the project type. Small exploratory projects test new approaches at limited scale. Large implementation and research projects reach multiple districts over several years. Multi-year funding is common.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- micro:bit Classroom Kits — Classroom sets of programmable microcontrollers for hands-on coding and physical computing. Qualifies as K-12 CS hardware; supports standards-aligned programming instruction across grade levels.
- MicroChat — AI-powered classroom learning tool that introduces students to artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts. Qualifies for AI literacy, educational technology, and computer science grant programs.
- Forward Education Teacher Training — Professional development program building teacher capacity in physical computing and AI literacy instruction. Qualifies for professional development funding under teacher effectiveness and instructional improvement programs.
Keep in Mind
CS for All RPPs require ongoing collaboration between university researchers and school practitioners. This is not a traditional grant - it is a long-term working relationship with shared responsibility for research and implementation.
Texas Education Service Centers have experience with NSF CS for All projects and can connect you with university partners. Your ESC is a good first call before approaching a university directly.
Search nsf.gov/awardsearch for 'CS for All' to read abstracts of previously funded projects. This gives you a clear picture of what NSF expects and helps you frame your proposal appropriately.
If you don't have a track record with NSF, start with a smaller exploratory or pilot project proposal before attempting a large-scale implementation grant. Build credibility with NSF first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs in Texas?
Institutions of higher education, school districts, and nonprofit organizations can apply, often as collaborative teams. Texas universities partnering with districts or Education Service Centers have been successful in previous cycles. Individual districts typically participate as partners rather than lead applicants. Lead applicants: Universities, colleges, and research organizations Partners: K-12 school districts, ESCs, and nonprofits Research-practice partnerships (RPPs) are a core program f
How much funding is available through NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs?
$300,000 - $3M+ depending on project type. Check the current program guidelines for the latest award ranges and allocation details.
Can NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.
How do schools apply for NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs?
NSF CS for All solicitations are issued annually. Check nsf.gov for the current solicitation number and deadline. Projects range from small exploratory grants ($300K) to large-scale implementation projects ($3M+). Allow 3-6 months for proposal development.
How can Forward Education help with NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs funding?
Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Texas schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes NSF CS for All: Research and RPPs funds. Contact us before submitting your application.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents — TEKS, Common Core, and state standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing — classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support — documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence — ready-to-use program outlines
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