Eligible students are:
Students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.85 in the major or
Students with exceptional academic progress in the two preceding semesters or
Students with exceptional academic progress in the last 30 hours of academic credits.
Interested in attending graduate school and pursuing doctoral studies
Interested in a joint professional and traditional academic doctoral degree
Full-time sophomores (60 credits minimum), juniors and, on rare occasion, seniors who can commit to a summer research experience and have had prior research experience
Enrolled at the University of Maryland College Park, Frostburg State University, or Saint Mary's College of Maryland
From groups traditionally under-represented in graduate school or specific graduate programs
Students who meet financial and family education requirements per the U.S. Department of Education
U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
Transfer students who meet all the above requirements.
The McNair Scholars Program is preparing the next generation of problem-solvers, scholars, public intellectuals, professors, and leaders. We consider the following qualities:
Self-motivated
Mature, responsible and reliable
Potential for leadership
Honesty, sincerity and integrity
A commitment to research
An activist spirit
A desire to discover and contribute new knowledge
The program offers these services:
Preparation for graduate school admissions tests
Supplemental academic advising
Graduate school advising
Tutoring
Research mentoring
Paid summer research internship
Assistance with identification and acquisition of graduate school financing
Assistance with graduate school applications
Advanced writing classes
Opportunities to present research at national McNair Conferences
Research preparation classes/seminars
Academic development workshops
Applications are being processed on a rolling basis and will be accepted until all spaces are filled. Please contact the McNair Scholars Program Office with questions: McNairScholar@umd.edu or 301-405-4749.
Complete and submit an application:
Completed application form supplying information on background and skills.
Statement of Purpose outlining graduate studies objectives and how participation in the program will help meet those objectives.
All official transcripts, including from transfer institutions.
Two letters of recommendation appraising the student's academic abilities and potential to successfully complete graduate level work. One of the letters must come from a professor in the student's field of study or previous professors if a transfer student. If student was or is a participant in a TRiO program one letter of recommendation may come from a TRIO program director or another individual who can speak to student's character and other personal qualities.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status
Family Income Verification Information:
Signed tax statement from parent (if dependent)
Signed financial aid form
Signed statement on application from parent (if dependent)
Signed statement on application from applicant (if independent)