McNair Scholars Program

The McNair Scholars program is a federal TRIO program funded by the U.S. Department of Education and mandated by Congress. The goal of the federal McNair program is to increase the number of students in doctoral degree programs who are primarily from low-income and first-generation backgrounds (34 CFR 647.3(c)(1)). Students who come from groups underrepresented in graduate education as defined in the federal regulations (34 CFR 647.7) or in certain academic disciplines as outlined in 34 CFR 647.3(c)(3) may also be eligible to participate in the program.

The program was named for Astronaut and Challenger space shuttle crew member Dr. Ronald E. McNair, an accomplished laser physicist, fifth-degree black belt in karate, and saxophonist. The first programs were funded in 1989, three years after the Challenger Space shuttle incident, which claimed the life of Dr. Ronald E. McNair. The program is dedicated to the high standards of achievement inspired by Dr. McNair's life. Read the full history of the program and Dr. McNair.

The McNair Scholars Program provides a system of integrated services to help develop your academic, research, and communication skills. The program provides support services, activities, and experiences that represent an investment in your future. We are committed to seeing you succeed and in return expect a firm commitment from you. We look forward to working with you and your research mentor, and helping you achieve your academic goals.

Scholars are provided with many services to assist with processes including:

• Preparing and completing a quality academic research paper and/or project
• Identifying and obtaining information about appropriate graduate programs
• Preparing for and take the Graduate Records Exam (GRE)
• Learning about scholarships and fellowships for graduate study
• Preparing applications or scholarship forms and edit personal statements
• Securing letters of recommendation for graduate school applications

In addition, scholars receive:

• Workshops and seminars during the academic year and summer sessions
• Group and individual graduate school visits
• McNair Scholar-specific graduate admission application waivers (where available)
• Academic and career advising/mentoring
• A Personal Education Plan (PEP)
• Summer research internship with a research stipend upon successful completion
• The ability to borrow Laptop computers and software (as well as technology training)
• Travel to national undergraduate research conferences and other professional meetings
• The opportunity to submit their research to undergraduate research journals
• The ability to serve as McNair Ambassadors and gain leadership experience
• Referrals to additional campus resources to help you meet academic requirements
• Networking opportunities with other McNair alumni throughout the United States
• Participation in cultural and social group activities and events

Given the limited availability of student spots every year, meeting the eligibility requirements (see below) does not guarantee admission into the McNair cohort.

In addition, students must be willing to participate in the McNair Scholars Summer Research Institute, at least once, before graduation; present their research projects in at least two conferences (McNair or Academic conferences only); and have a commitment to participate in all McNair seminars, workshops, and activities until graduation.

To participate in the McNair Scholars Program, the U.S. Department of Education requires that participants are:

• Citizens, nationals, or permanent residents of the U.S. or of other eligible residency or nationality as outlined in 34 CFR 647.3(a)
• Enrolled full-time at Suffolk University with at least 42 credit hours completed at time of program entry
• A sophomore or a junior with at least a 3.0 GPA with at least one full calendar year remaining before graduation
• Individuals who have never enrolled in a doctoral program

In addition, students must qualify on at least one condition including:

• A first-generation college student who is income eligible (learn more about federal income guidelines)
• A member of a group underrepresented in graduate education as defined in federal regulations (34 CFR 647.7)
• A member of a group not listed in 34 CFR 647.7 but underrepresented in certain academic disciplines as outlined in 34 CFR 647.3(c)(3)

You can download an application [PDF] or complete our online application; please email our office for more information.

1. Attend a McNair Scholars Information Session OR meet with a member of the McNair Scholars Team to learn more about the program
2. Complete a McNair Scholars Program Application
   If you begin your application and need to stop, it will automatically save after entering your contact information and link will be sent to your email address
3. The application requires that you include the names of two recommenders—your application will provide you with a link to send to your recommenders
   Please Note: At least one recommendation must be from a Suffolk professor
4. In order for your application to be considered complete, all supplemental materials must be uploaded in your application including:
• Tax forms
• Personal and research statement
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• An academic writing sample

Information about each document can be found within your application.

For questions about the application or eligibility, please contact the program staff. Completed application materials and recommendation letters can be submitted in person, by email, mail, fax, or online. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that all application materials are submitted. If for any reason you are having difficulty accessing the necessary documents, please reach out to our office for support.

You will be contacted once the completed application is submitted. Interviews will be conducted as the applications are received.

We look forward to receiving your application and remember: Once McNair, Always McNair.