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Apply to the McNair Scholars Program

When to Apply

are accepted throughout the year as space allows. For consideration each fall, submit your application by October 1. Once the cohort of 26 students is selected in the fall, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to space availability.

Who Is Eligible?

The McNair Scholars Program at CSUDH is designed for first-generation college students who meet federal TRIO income criteria and are committed to pursuing graduate education.

To be considered, you must:
- Be a current CSUDH undergraduate student (3.0+ GPA recommended)
- Have sophomore, junior, or early senior standing with at least three semesters remaining before completing your bachelor’s degree
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident 
- Be a first-generation college student, meaning neither parent or legal guardian has completed a four-year bachelor’s degree
- Meet federal TRIO low-income criteria, usually shown by Pell Grant eligibility or by meeting the most recent

Meeting these minimum criteria does not guarantee selection. Final decisions consider academic preparation, research interest, first-generation college experience, and available space in the cohort.

How to Apply

Step 1 – McNair Interest /

- Complete the online interest form on this page
- Share your major, GPA, and research interests
- Describe your experience as a first-generation college student and your goals for graduate school

Step 2 – Full Application (by Invitation)

If your initial form shows that you meet the first-generation college and income criteria, you will receive instructions to submit through a secured Dropbox file request:
- Short essay responses
- Unofficial transcripts from all colleges attended
- Two faculty recommendations (at least one from a CSUDH faculty member)
- 1040 tax forms (yours and/or your parents, as applicable)
- A copy of your Social Security card
- A copy of your driver’s license or state ID

Step 3 – Interview & Selection

- Selected applicants are invited to an interview with McNair staff
- Final selection is based on academic preparation, research interest, first-generation college experience and goals, and space in the cohort
- All applicants are notified of their status by email

Questions

Email mcnair@csudh.edu if you have questions about the application process.

Phase II of the Application will ask for the following documents to be submitted in a provided secure link:

1. Responses to 3 short essay prompts provided in a follow-up email 
2. Transcripts from every school you have attended (unofficial)
3. Two letters of recommendation from CSUDH Faculty members
4. 1040 Tax Forms for your household (include parents' if considered dependent by Financial Aid)
5. Copy of Social Security Card
6. Copy of Driver's License

FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

Do you have any specific questions about the program? Please complete this form and we will be happy to provide you with more information!