Eligibility & Requirements
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To participate in the McNair Scholars Program, a student must:
- Complete at least 60 credit hours by summer 2023
- Desire to obtain a Ph.D.
- Be enrolled in their first bachelor's degree program
- Have a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA
- Is a U.S. citizen, permanent U.S. resident, or attempting to establish residency
- Come from an income-eligible situation AND is a first-generation college student completing a bachelor's degree
- OR be a member of a group underrepresented in graduate education as defined by the U.S. Department of Education (African-America, Hispanic-Latino, Native American and Alaskan, Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian)
- OR be a student underrepresented in certain academic disciplines
Expectations are set high for McNair Scholars. That is why we offer academic and financial support to maximize students' graduate potential. McNair Scholars are expected to:
- Enroll in a spring research course
- Participate in the McNair Scholar Summer Research Program
- Attend all workshops, trips, events and seminars
- Maintain a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA
- Complete academic research project directed by USM faculty mentor
- Present research at a national conference or at McNair Symposium
- Attend scheduled GRE preparatory courses
- Develop a diverse portfolio including curriculum vitae, statement of purpose
- Complete a doctoral degree within ten (10) years of attaining a bachelor's degree from USM
To apply, you must submit:
- One letter of recommendation from an instructor or faculty member who can attest to your academic abilities
- A 4-page maximum writing sample
- A class assignment is an acceptable submission
- A 500-800 word statement of purpose about your educational and career goals
- A PDF copy of your 2022 Tax Return
- Be sure to include the portion that shows members of the household, including yourself, and the adjusted gross income
- A PDF copy of your most recent FAFSA (Student Aid Report)