NSF requires prior-approval on all of the following EXCEPT?

The National Science Foundation (NSF) requires prior approval for certain actions regarding grants and funding, which is meant to ensure that the NSF maintains oversight and proper management of federal funds. Among the options provided, the requirement for prior approval does not typically apply to pre-award costs that are associated with a timeframe exceeding 120 days.

The pre-award costs can be incurred before the official start date of a project or grant, but the NSF policy allows them under certain conditions. Generally, costs incurred prior to the award, especially those that do not exceed a specific timeframe or amount, can often be included in the award budget without needing additional scrutiny. Therefore, pre-award costs greater than 120 days may not necessarily trigger the need for prior approval, setting them apart from the other circumstances listed.

In contrast, the other options relate to significant changes or reallocations within the budget or scope of a project that could alter the intended use of funds. A second no-cost extension (NCE), changes in scope, or rebudgeting concerns involve critical administrative actions that influence how a project is executed and funded. These factors typically require prior approval to ensure compliance with the grant agreement and to maintain the integrity of the funding process.