McNAIR FAQs

What is TRIO McNair?
How do I attain an application?
What are the eligibility requirements?
What is the time commitment?
Can I participate if I am not a USC student?
How much is the McNair stipend?
Does the program provide summer housing and meals?
When are successful applicants notified?
What expenses do students incur during the summer program?
How do I contact the McNair staff?

What is TRIO McNair?

The TRIO Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement program is designed to prepare participants for doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities. McNair participants are academically strong yet underrepresented in graduate education. The University of South Carolina's McNair Program works closely with scholars in completing their undergraduate requirements, encouraging and supporting their entrance into graduate programs, and tracking their progress to successful completion of advanced degrees. The goal of TRIO McNair is to increase the attainment of the Ph.D by students from underrepresented segments of society.

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How do I attain an application?

Applications are available on-line. You can also request an application by calling (803) 777-5125.

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What are the eligibility requirements?

Applicants must be undergraduates who are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident attending an accredited four-year college in South Carolina, have completed at least 60 credit hours with a 3.0 overall GPA, and are either a first-generation college student and qualified as low income according to federal TRIO low income levels or a member of a group underrepresented in graduate education.

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What is the time commitment?

The McNair program consists of yearlong activities. Beginning at the start of the summer, McNair scholars participate in a six week, all-day program, Monday through Friday. During the academic year following the summer component, McNair scholars meet monthly with advisors and for scheduled evening McNair activities.

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Can I participate if I am not a USC student?

Yes. However, you must attend an accredited four-year university or college in the state of South Carolina in which you are pursuing a baccalaureate degree. You must also be a US citizen or permanent resident.

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How much is the McNair stipend?

Students selected to participate in the program receive a summer stipend of $2100 and $300 each academic semester for their full participation in the McNair program, totaling $2700.

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Does the program provide summer housing and meals?

Yes. McNair scholars have the option of staying in program-provided campus housing. In addition, all students receive $600 to pay for their meals throughout the six week summer program.

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When are successful applicants notified?

Students will be notified on their acceptance (or rejection) by the end of March.

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What expenses do students incur during the summer program?

The program provides students with housing, $600 for food, and program materials as well as covers program expenses and the cost of travel to a conference and other specified McNair events. The student must cover all other expenses.

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How do I contact the McNair staff?

You can call the McNair program coordinator, Michelle Cooper, at 803-777-5125 or email at rogersm8@gwm.sc.edu.