A study-level modification is used when a change applies to the overall study, including all participating sites. This also includes changes that affect both the study and its sites.
A site-level modification is used when a change applies to one specific participating site only and does not affect the overall study or other sites.
In multi-site studies, modifications may be required at the study level, the site level, or both, depending on the change requested and how the study is set up in Zipline.
Start by determining the scope of the change:
If the change applies to the overall study, submit a study-level modification. For more information:
If the change applies to one specific site only, submit a site-level modification. For more information:
If the change affects both the study and one or more sites, submit a study-level modification first.
HSD strongly recommends waiting to submit any sit- level modifications until the study-level modification has been reviewed. During review, HSD staff will evaluate whether a site modification is also required and will provide instructions on when and what to submit.
Because requirements can vary based on how the study is configured in Zipline, it may not always be clear which modification is needed. If you are unsure, contact hsdrely@uw.edu for guidance before submitting.
The steps for multi-site study-level modifications are the same as the steps for single-site study modifications. Go to Modifications to UW Reviewed Studies for detailed steps.
Site modifications apply to a single participating site. If HSD requires changes, they will withdraw the modification because clarification requests are not available for site modifications. The PI or PI proxy must resubmit the modification before review can continue.





The modification transitions to Pre-Review state and is now in HSD’s queue for review.

Important: Site modifications do not have a formal clarification request process. If HSD needs additional information or changes before approval, they will withdraw the site modification and return it to Pre-Submission with reviewer comments. You must address the requested changes and resubmit the modification for HSD to continue review.





After the modification is approved, the changes are published in the site record, so the site always contains the currently approved information. The UW PI, PI proxy, and primary contact also receive a notification containing the modification approval letter.