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Is my study exempt?

Answer four questions about your study. You'll see the likely review path, the exempt or expedited category, what to file and the regulations behind it.

Question 1 of 4What kind of study is it?
Question 2 of 4Who takes part?
Question 3 of 4What will you record about them?
Question 4 of 4Where will it run?

Your answer shows here.

0 of 4 questions answered. Nothing you pick leaves your browser.

How it works

The same rules as the study wizard

The check runs on the regulatory engine behind the ConductCompliance study wizard and its public API, so all three give the same answer.

  • Every answer cites its sources

    Each answer links to the regulations it rests on, such as 45 CFR 46.104(opens the official source) for the exempt categories, with the date we last checked each one.

  • It says what to file

    The answer lists the filings that go with the review path, the points to check with your IRB and the training IRBs usually ask for.

  • Your IRB decides

    The check gives the likely path. Exempt research still needs your IRB's determination. Your IRB has final authority.
Questions

Common questions

If my study is likely exempt, can I start?
Not yet. Send your IRB an exempt determination request and wait for their answer. Exempt research still needs your IRB's determination. Your IRB has final authority.
Can research with children be exempt?
Some can. Under 45 CFR 46.104(b)(3), surveys and interviews with children can't use the (d)(2) exemption, so the check sends a children's survey to expedited review. Educational tests, and watching public behavior you don't take part in, can still be exempt.
My study doesn't fit the choices. What should I pick?
Pick the closest match and read the reasons the answer gives. If they don't describe your study, ask your IRB office. When answers don't map cleanly to one review path, the check tells you to ask your IRB office.
What about studies outside the US?
The check covers the US rules in 45 CFR 46. For a study that runs abroad, it notes that the country has rules of its own. Ask your IRB which reviews you need.
Does the check keep my answers?
Your answers stay in this browser, so they're there when you come back, and we don't receive them. If you create a free account, they go with you into the study wizard.
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