NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers
Eligibility
Higher education institutions, school districts, nonprofits, and industry partners can apply, typically as collaborative teams. Texas universities have participated in past ITEST projects. Districts partner to provide student and teacher participants.
- Lead applicants: Universities and research institutions
- Partners: School districts, nonprofits, and industry organizations
- Projects must include a research component examining student and teacher outcomes
- Applications submitted through nsf.gov
Program Goals
NSF ITEST funds projects giving students and teachers hands-on experience with technology, preparing them for STEM careers and exposing them to the kinds of work they will encounter in the workforce. Robotics, physical computing, AI, and data science projects are common fits.
ITEST values experiential learning - students do, not just watch. The program also emphasizes diversity and inclusion, with priority given to projects that reach underrepresented students in STEM.
Application and Distribution
ITEST solicitations are issued annually. Check nsf.gov for the current solicitation number and deadline. Proposals require 3-6 months of development. Connect with a Texas university education research center early to build your partnership team.
Grant Award Amount
ITEST awards typically range from $500,000 to $1.5 million over three years. Projects must include a rigorous research component examining the impact on student STEM career interest and teacher practice. Larger awards require more comprehensive evaluation designs.
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.
- Coding for Climate Kit — Hands-on curriculum kit teaching climate science, environmental data collection, and coding-based problem-solving. Aligns with STEM and environmental literacy grants; cross-curricular science and CS integration.
Keep in Mind
NSF ITEST almost always requires a higher education institution as the lead or co-principal investigator. Contact a Texas university education research center before developing your proposal.
NSF evaluates proposals on the quality of the research plan, not just the program. Include a strong research question, appropriate evaluation instruments, and a clear plan for data analysis.
ITEST gives priority to projects reaching underrepresented students in STEM. If your project serves rural, low-income, or minority students, make that central to your proposal narrative.
ITEST wants students to experience real STEM careers. Include industry partners, workplace visits, or career awareness activities alongside the hands-on technology work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers in Texas?
Higher education institutions, school districts, nonprofits, and industry partners can apply, typically as collaborative teams. Texas universities have participated in past ITEST projects. Districts partner to provide student and teacher participants. Lead applicants: Universities and research institutions Partners: School districts, nonprofits, and industry organizations Projects must include a research component examining student and teacher outcomes Applications submitted through nsf.gov
How much funding is available through NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers?
$500,000 - $1.5M over 3 years. Check the current program guidelines for the latest award ranges and allocation details.
Can NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers funds be used for STEM and coding tools?
Yes. NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers 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 ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers?
ITEST solicitations are issued annually. Check nsf.gov for the current solicitation number and deadline. Proposals require 3-6 months of development. Connect with a Texas university education research center early to build your partnership team.
How can Forward Education help with NSF ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers 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 ITEST: Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers 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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