MCNS Application Process

McNair Scholar

To apply for the McNair Scholars program, please follow the application procedure detailed below. Please complete all requirements fully and accurately. Again, if you are a first-generation and low-income student, we encourage you to apply. If you have questions, please refer to these FAQs or contact us directly.

To complete an application, please submit ALL of the following:

1. McNair Scholars Application (Apply using this link, Please sign electronically.)

2. Statement of Purpose and Research Experience Essay: Use MS Word (.docx or .doc) or PDF format and no more than 1,000 words. This is one essay that should address your research experience, interests, and aspirations, alongside your goals, preparations, and motivations for pursuing a doctoral degree. Please see the prompt in the application. Please upload your statement of purpose into the application.

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) including, but not limited to, a list of all academic honors, distinctions, scholarships, memberships in academic and extracurricular organizations, and participation in academic activities, including research experiences. Please upload your CV into the application.

4. IRS Form 1040 Individual Income Tax Return: Please include a recent copy, past two years, of IRS Form 1040 Individual Income Tax Return. Note: Form 1040 is the strongly preferred and easiest option, but you can also prove your household’s taxable income using: (a) a signed statement from your parent or guardian, (b) verification from another governmental source, © a signed financial aid (e.g., FAFSA) application. See further instructions in the application. Please upload your document into the application.

5. Three Letters of Recommendation: At least two of the three letters must come from higher-education faculty who can speak to your research and writing skills. Additional recommendations do not increase your chances of selection. Please provide this link to your recommenders. Recommenders should submit directly via the form in this link.