Frequently Asked Questions

Who should apply?

As indicated by the Code of Federal Regulations in § 647.3:

(a)

(1) Is a citizen or national of the United States; or

(2) Is a permanent resident of the United States; or

(3) Is in the United States for other than a temporary purpose and provides evidence from the Immigration and Naturalization Service of his or her intent to become a permanent resident; or

(4) Is a permanent resident of Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, or the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands; or

(5) Is a resident of one of the Freely Associated States.

(b) Is currently enrolled in a degree program at an institution of higher education that participates in the student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the HEA.

(1) A low-income individual who is a first-generation college student;

(2) A member of a group that is underrepresented in graduate education; or

(3) A member of a group that is not listed in § 647.7 if the group is underrepresented in certain academic disciplines as documented by standard statistical references or other national survey data submitted to and accepted by the Secretary on a case-by-case basis.

(d) Has not enrolled in doctoral level study at an institution of higher education.

What’s the application like?

Students create a log-in and can start and stop an application at their convenience. The application includes a 500 word essay and three recommendation forms that will be sent to faculty, staff, or other supporter of the student.

What type of grades should I have?

We encourage students to apply if they have a 3.0 or higher.

Is this a scholarship?

It is not a scholarship, rather it is a program of support that includes stipends for research and travel funding.

What does this cost?

NO COST: All services and support are provided at no cost to the students. The McNair Program is one of many TRIO programs (like Upward Bound and Student Support Services), and the funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Education.

What type of commitment is this?

Summer: Students enter the program in the eight-week McNair Summer Academy, which includes a $2800 stipend. Students must participate in a series of workshops, and 40 hours per week of research work
Academic Year: Students can continue their work in the following academic year and are expected to: meet with staff and faculty members at least two times per month, attend at least one group meeting a month, complete a research project that includes a formal paper and presentation of research. We provide workshops, guidance, and advisement to help students through all the commitments.

Why should I participate in a program like McNair?

Most advance careers now required graduate degrees. The graduate school application process is a lot different from undergraduate and it helps to have coaching through it. Graduate programs expect students to have research experience before applying. Graduate school is expensive, but there is more than enough funding for most students to pay for all of their education costs and even have money to live on. We help you learn all there is to know.

Can I work and do this program?

Students cannot work or take classes in the summer program.

We understand that the reality of most student's situation requires them to earn money to live and pay for school. We work with students to help transition their work efforts to research experiences and other career-building opportunities. If you think you will have difficulty balancing work and McNair Commitments, contact us and we can talk to you about it.

Does this program work?

More than 80% of our participants enroll in graduate school within a few years of graduation, and more than 90% finish their graduate degree

What if my question wasn't answered here?

Email mcnair@lsu.edu. We will be happy to chat with you about the program.