This publication provides a non-technical summary of the Department of Education's discretionary grants process and the laws and regulations that govern it. It was written for readers who have received an award, or are simply interested in knowing more about the Department's discretionary grants process. It describes how grant programs are created by Congress and administered by the Department, and how the public goes about applying for and receiving discretionary grants. It does not contain information about programs of the Department that give student financial assistance or funding through formula grant programs. The eight sections comprising this publication are: (1) Before We Begin; (2) Let's Get Started; (3) Applying for a Grant; (4) Waiting to Hear; (5) Getting Funded; (6) My Responsibilities as a Grantee; (7) Wrapping It Up; and (8) Just One More Thing. A glossary and sources for other information are included.