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McNair Scholars Program at Sacramento State Academic Affairs

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Apply To Become a McNair Scholar

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To be eligible to participate in the California State University, Sacramento McNair Scholars Program, students must meet the following requirements:

  1. Be a first generation undergraduate student and reside in an income-eligible household
  2. Have completed 60 units.
  3. Be enrolled at California State University, Sacramento on a full-time basis (minimum 12 units).
  4. Express a demonstrated commitment and desire to seek a Ph.D. in an academic discipline and/or a career in university teaching.
  5. Must have a minimum 2.8 GPA and must be making satisfactory progress toward a baccalaureate degree.
  6. Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  7. Must be willing to commit to program requirements.

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Application Package Checklist

To apply for the McNair Scholars Program, please submit the following:

  • Compete application
  • Personal Statement
  • Writing Sample
  • A copy of ALL unofficial college transcripts (including community colleges, other universities and CSUS)
  • Three letters of recommendation along with the Faculty Recommendation Forms
  • A copy of a current tax return and financial aid award summary; or documentation of income

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How To Apply

  1. Completely fill out the application form.
  2. Obtain 3 letters of recommendation attesting to potential for study at the graduate level.
  3. Write a statement of purpose.
  4. Submit unofficial transcripts from all colleges attended.
  5. Submit a writing sample.
  6. Submit income documentation or a copy of most recent tax statement and financial aid award summary.

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Benefits Of The Program

Student presentation

  • Opportunity to work with a faculty mentor;
  • $2,800 stipend for journal article completion;
  • Scholarly experiences, including free attendance and participation in national conferences;
  • Counseling through the graduate school admission process;
  • Fee waivers for application to numerous participating graduate programs;
  • GRE preparation;
  • Publication of your research in the McNair Scholars Journal;
  • Cultural Events;
  • Funding to travel to and preview graduate programs;
  • National recognition as a McNair Scholar

Program Expectations


  • Complete the research methodology course sequence
  • Maintain communication between the McNair Program staff members and faculty mentors to discuss personal and academic needs
  • Maintain academic progress and increase your GPA to a 3.0 or above by the time you are ready to graduate and apply to graduate school
  • Participate in statewide and national conferences to present your research findings
  • Participate in the McNair Scholars Research Symposium at Sac State
  • Apply to and attend a graduate program upon completion of your undergraduate studies