Science magazine’s analysis found that overall commitments by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health remained roughly level in fiscal 2025, even as both agencies reduced the number of new grants awarded. NSF committed about $8.17 billion to grants, fellowships and other funding mechanisms—near 2024 levels—but funded fewer new research project grants, a decline that institutions say tightens the research pipeline. Agency staff said some reductions were precautionary steps to limit future financial obligations pending budget uncertainty. While total dollars stabilized, the drop in new awards and continuing‑grant changes could slow hiring and early‑career researcher support on campuses, and heighten competition for limited federal research dollars if congressional appropriations remain unsettled.