Conduct Research with Faculty Mentors
At the heart of the program is a paid summer research experience that allows Scholars to conduct one-on-one research with a faculty mentor.
- 10 weeks independent research experience during the summer semester
- $3,800 stipend to enable full focus on your research and enrichment
- Free housing on campus for the duration of the summer program
- $1,200 allowance to support living expenses
- Opportunities to present your research
Build Your Academic and Professional Edge
McNair Scholars participate in enrichment activities designed to help you grow your academic interests and prepare you for graduate study and beyond.
- Mentorship from faculty and program staff
- Expense-paid travel to research conferences and graduate institutions
- Local visits to educational, research, and cultural institutions
- Exclusive courses focused on academic success, graduate school preparation, and independence
Prepare for Graduate School
The program provides comprehensive support as you apply to and succeed in graduate school.
- Guidance on graduate school applications and statements of purpose
- Waived or reduced application fees
- Academic skill building and research preparation
- Resources for securing graduate school funding
Eligibility and Application Requirements
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To be considered for the McNair Scholars Program, you must meet federal eligibility guidelines.
You must:
Be a full-time Trinity University undergraduate student (all majors are eligible)
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
You must: Be a first-generation college student (your parent(s) or guardian(s) did not earn a four-year degree before you turned 18) and meet federal income guidelines.Applicants should also:
Demonstrate strong academic potential
Plan to pursue a doctoral (Ph.D.) degree
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Before applying, you must complete a short eligibility assessment.
You will need to provide:
Basic personal and academic information
Signed copy of a family tax return (to verify eligibility)Upon approval of your eligibility assessment, you will be invited to complete the full application.
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Once invited to apply, you will submit:
Completed online application
Personal and demographic information
Citizenship or residency verification
Income tax return
Personal essay
Two recommendations
Trinity University official transcriptAfter you submit your application, program staff will contact you with next steps.
Check Eligibility
Complete the Eligibility Assessment to confirm you meet program requirements before applying.
The Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program honors physicist and NASA astronaut Ronald E. McNair, whose legacy of academic excellence and perseverance continues to inspire future scholars. McNair was among the seven crew members who lost their lives in the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger disaster.
Alumni Network
You are an inspiration for current Scholars. The McNair Scholars Alumni Network is a valuable part of every Scholar's experience. As a McNair alumni, stay engaged with the Program by keeping your information updated and letting us know what you’re doing now.
Mentor and Share Your Expertise
Offer guidance, speak with students, or contribute insight to research projects. Contact the Program Associate Director for more information.
Support the McNair Scholars Program
Help expand opportunities for future Scholars through philanthropic support.