McNair Scholars
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I am currently a sophomore, but by the end of Spring quarter, I will be a Junior, can I apply for the program?
A: Yes!
Q: I am currently enrolled at a different college or university, but am transferring to Central in the Fall, can I still apply for this Program?
A: Yes! You will need to provide two letters of recommendation from faculty at your current institution.
Q: Am I considered a first-generation college student if one of my parents graduated from college, but s/he provides no material support for me?
A: Yes! You are a first-generation college student if the parent(s) who provide material support for you has (have) not graduated from college.
Q: Is there funding available to support research travel?
A: Yes! You may use your summer stipend to fund research travel. In addition, you can apply for funding assistance from the Office of University Research (up to $750 per student) and the Student Academic Senate (up to $200). The McNair Office also has limited additional funds available, for which you can make a formal request.
Q: If I enroll in the McNair courses, I will be registered for more than 18 credits. Who pays for the overload tuition?
A: At this time, you would be responsible for the extra tuition. However, you may participate in the McNair courses without being formally enrolled.
Q: Do I have to obtain a Ph.D. or can I earn other doctoral degrees?
A: The best-known research doctorate title awarded in the United States is the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). However, there are a number of other doctoral titles that enjoy the same status and represent variants of the Ph.D. within certain fields. See the complete list of NSF-recognized doctoral degrees on our Ph.D. Options page.
Q: What majors are eligible to participate in The McNair Scholars Program?
A: All majors are eligible to participate in the program.
Q: Will the McNair summer research money cover my research if I do it in a different country?
A: The McNair Scholars Program cannot pay for travel outside of the U.S. However, you can still receive your research stipends and room and board while you are overseas.
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