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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the McNair Scholars Program?

The McNair Scholars Program at CSUDH is a TRIO program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. It supports first-generation college students who meet federal TRIO income criteria as they explore research and prepare for graduate and doctoral study through mentoring, research experiences, workshops, and advising.

Who is the program for?

McNair is for first-generation college students at CSUDH who meet federal TRIO low-income guidelines (e.g., Pell Grant eligibility or current TRIO income criteria) and are interested in graduate school, particularly research-focused master鈥檚 and Ph.D. programs.

What does 鈥渇irst-generation college student鈥� mean?

A first-generation college student is a student whose parents or legal guardians have not completed a four-year bachelor鈥檚 degree. If you are not sure how this applies to you, contact the McNair office.

Do I have to meet income criteria?

Yes. All McNair applicants at CSUDH must be first-generation college students and meet federal TRIO low-income criteria, usually shown by Pell Grant eligibility or by meeting the most recent TRIO income guidelines based on family size and taxable income.

When should I apply?

Apply in your sophomore or junior year; seniors are eligible if they have at least 3 semesters to participate in McNair prior to their graduation. For priority consideration each fall, submit your application by October 1. After October 1, applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to space availability.

How do I apply?

Start on the Apply page. First, complete the online interest application. If you appear to meet the first-generation college and income criteria, you will be invited to submit a full application with essays, transcripts, recommendations, and income documentation. Selected applicants are invited to an interview before final decisions are made.

Is there a minimum GPA?

Yes. A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is expected at the time of application. If your GPA is slightly below 3.0 but trending upward and you are strongly interested in research and graduate study, contact the McNair office to discuss your situation.

What will I do as a McNair Scholar?

You will work with a faculty mentor, complete a research or scholarly project (usually over the summer), participate in workshops and seminars on research, writing, and graduate school, take the UNV research and writing course for McNair Scholars in the spring when you join the program, meet regularly with McNair staff, and prepare and submit applications to graduate programs and funding opportunities.

How much time does the program take?

McNair is a substantial but manageable commitment. Plan time each term for meetings with your mentor, workshops, work on your project, and graduate school preparation. McNair staff will help you plan so the program fits your coursework and responsibilities.

Do I have to do research?

Yes. Each McNair Scholar completes a research or scholarly project with guidance from a faculty mentor. This experience builds skills in critical thinking, writing, and presenting and strengthens graduate school applications.

What is the UNV research and writing class?

The UNV research and writing course for McNair Scholars is taken in the spring when you join the program. It helps you learn how to ask research questions, plan a project, read academic articles, write about research, and prepare for your McNair project with your mentor.

Do I have to go straight into graduate school after McNair?

The program is designed to prepare you to begin a graduate program in the fall immediately after you complete your bachelor鈥檚 degree. During McNair, you plan and submit graduate applications so that starting a master鈥檚 or doctoral program is your next step after graduation.

Is there a cost to participate?

There is no cost to participate. The McNair Scholars Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Some activities may include stipends, research support, or travel support, as allowed by the grant and program budget.

Can I work or have other commitments while in McNair?

Yes. Many McNair Scholars work, have family responsibilities, or are involved in campus activities. Planning and communication are important. Be honest about your schedule, attend required activities, and let your mentor and McNair staff know if conflicts arise.

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

Email mcnair@csudh.edu or visit the office in University Library North, 4th Floor 鈥� LIB 4200.