Become a McNair Scholar
Your Journey Starts Here
Each year, the UNC McNair Scholars Program selects 15 motivated students who are ready to take the next step toward graduate school. Scholars receive comprehensive academic, financial, and professional support as they build the foundation for advanced study and lifelong success.
Spring 2026 Information Sessions
Eligibility Criteria
- Second- or third-year students with a minimum of 60 credits completed by the end of the academic year and at least one more year of undergraduate enrollment.
- 2.75 or higher cumulative GPA
- American citizen or US permanent resident
- Strong interest in completing a graduate degree
- Strong interest in completing a research project
- First-generation college student
- Income eligible
If you are close or unsure if you fit these requirements, we encourage you to reach out to us and have a discussion
- Priority deadline: Monday, February 16, 2026
- Interviews: starting late February
- Final selection: mid-March
- Download fillable PDF application
- Complete application form and save as lastname_firstname_application
- Write short answers and save as as lastname_firstname_essays
- (Optional)Request faculty endorsement or letter of recommendation
- Submit application through online portal
Start Your Next Chapter
If you’re the first in your family to consider graduate school, McNair can help you figure out what’s possible—and how to get there.
You don’t have to know exactly where you’re headed. You just have to be ready to take the next step.
Questions? Schedule an appointment with the McNair Staff
Priority Deadline: February 16, 2026