What does "merit review" refer to in NSF terminology?

In the context of NSF terminology, "merit review" specifically refers to the method for evaluating the quality of the proposals submitted for funding. This process is crucial because it ensures that proposals are assessed based on their intellectual merit and broader impacts, allowing the NSF to select projects that are not only well-conceived but also likely to advance knowledge and contribute to society.

This evaluation involves thorough scrutiny by experts in the relevant fields, who assess various factors such as the significance of the research, the approach taken, the qualifications of the investigators, and the potential for societal benefits. By focusing on the quality of the proposals, merit review plays a vital role in maintaining high standards within the NSF funding processes and ensuring that resources are directed towards the most promising scientific endeavors.

In contrast, the other answer choices describe different aspects of the funding process and not specifically the evaluation of proposals, which is at the heart of what merit review entails.