A milestone is a control point in a project that makes it possible to check progress: the completion of a key stage after which the next one can begin, or the moment a decision is taken. Unlike a deliverable, a milestone is not submitted to the Commission but verified, and the means of verification must be stated in the proposal.
- What it is
- A control point
- Submitted
- No, it is verified
- Mandatory
- Means of verification
- In lump sum
- Not a payment condition
A milestone is a control point, not a document. The official definition describes it as a point that helps chart progress: it may correspond to a key result after which the next phase begins, or be a decision point – for instance where the consortium chooses which of several technologies to develop.
How it differs from a deliverable
A deliverable you submit – it is a file uploaded to the portal. A milestone you demonstrate.
Hence the mandatory means of verification column in the milestone table, and it must be concrete. Official examples: a laboratory prototype up and running; software released and validated by a user group; a field survey complete with data quality validated.
"Stage completed" is not a means of verification.
Practical role
Milestones underpin continuous reporting: progress against them is tracked throughout the project, not only in periodic reports.
In lump sum grants there is an important nuance: achieving milestones is desirable but not a requirement for a work package to count as complete. A milestone is a management instrument, not a payment trigger.
Frequently asked questions
How does a milestone differ from a deliverable?
A deliverable is submitted to the Commission as a file; a milestone is not submitted, it is verified. That is why the proposal has to state a concrete means of verification for each milestone: a working prototype, software validated by users, a completed study with verified data.
We did not reach a milestone on time. Will that block a payment?
In lump sum grants, no: reaching the milestones is desirable but it is not a condition for a work package to be recognised as complete. It is, however, something to discuss with the project officer and a reason to revisit the plan.
Official materials
Read on GetGrant
Sources
- Application form HE RIA/IA V5.1 ec.europa.eu · checked 27.07.2026
Data current as of 27.07.2026. Verify the terms with the donor’s official portal before applying.
Updated 27.07.2026 · Reviewed by: GetGrant editorial team
