All IRB applications are submitted through ARROW. The information provided on the pages below will help you determine which submission type is required.

The IRB office will review your submission and will either: (a) request revisions and/or finalize the application, or (b) send the study to IRB members for Full Board review.

  • Submissions requiring Full Board review will be placed on the next scheduled meeting based on submission deadlines.
  • Exempt and Expedited studies are not reviewed by the Full Board; IRB staff review these as they are submitted.
  • The IRB office will notify you of any revisions/clarifications requested by the IRB members.

Once the reviewer comments have been satisfactorily addressed, you will receive an approval letter via email. You cannot begin your research (including recruitment, scheduling interviews, etc.) until you receive the approval letter.

New Study

Visit this page for information on selecting the appropriate application type and how to preparing an application for submission.

Change of Protocol

Visit this page for information on making modifications to an approved application.

Continuing Review

Visit this page for information on continuing review required submission timelines and resources.

Reportable Events

Visit this page for information on how to report situations where participants experience unanticipated or anticipated problems during the course of the research.

Study Closure

Visit this page for information on submitting final closeout reports.

Emergency Use

Visit this page for information on reporting any emergency use of an investigational drug, biologic, or medical device with a human research participant.

Expanded Access

Visit this page for information on expanded access of an investigational medical product (one not approved by FDA) outside of a clinical trial

Respond to the IRB

Visit this page for information on how to respond when the IRB requests revisions or additional information.

Single IRB (sIRB) and External IRB: Reliance Arrangements

Visit this page for information on how to request for the rely on or use of an external IRB or for the UW-Madison to serve as IRB of Record.

Research with Meriter

Visit this page for information on submission requirements for research involving Meriter employees, Meriter patients and/or records, or requiring access to Meriter space.