Top Ten Tips for Getting Your Ethics Application Approved on the First Submission

Clearly articulate your research plan

Carefully think through what you intend to do and describe it as clearly and logically as possible. Present your research step by step, remembering that reviewers will not be as familiar with your project as you are.

Use clear and accessible language

Avoid unnecessary jargon, acronyms, and highly technical terms. Your application—and all participant-facing documents—should be understandable to a general audience, unless your participants are experts in the field.

Ensure your research is feasible

Consider whether your study is realistic within the available time frame. Reflect on whether you have the necessary skills, resources, and expertise to successfully complete the research as proposed.

Carefully consider your participants

Clearly explain how participants will be recruited, who will be included or excluded, and how they will be informed about the study. Participants must be able to make a fully informed decision about participation. If informed consent will not be sought, provide a clear and robust justification. Also explain how consent will be documented and confirm that participants may withdraw at any time without penalty.

Identify and manage potential risks

All research carries some level of risk, whether to participants or researchers. Clearly identify these risks, even if they are minimal, and describe the measures you will take to minimise or manage them.

Be realistic about anonymity and confidentiality

Consider whether you can genuinely guarantee anonymity or confidentiality. If participants may be identifiable in any way, this must be clearly stated so expectations are not misleading.

Be transparent about data use and future sharing

Explain how your data will be used, stored, and disseminated, including publications or presentations. If data may be reused, shared, or made openly accessible in the future, participants must be informed in advance. Avoid making data-destruction promises that conflict with potential future use.

Include all required supporting documents

Ensure that all relevant documentation is attached, such as participant information sheets, consent forms, interview guides, questionnaires, and permission or access letters where applicable.

Comply with relevant laws and regulations

Confirm that your research complies with all applicable legislation and institutional policies, including data protection, funding requirements, and healthcare governance where relevant. External regulations may affect how data can be collected, stored, or shared.

Allow sufficient time for review and revisions

While ethics applications may be processed within ten working days, approval is not guaranteed on first submission. Build in sufficient time to respond to reviewer feedback and make any required amendments.