The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program (McNair Scholars Program) accepts applications for the upcoming cohort every spring semester. The McNair Scholars Program is a great opportunity for undergraduate students to gain exposure, skills and experience in preparing for graduate school. The McNair Scholars Program is designed to encourage and prepare undergraduates for success in doctoral study by offering mentoring, academic counseling, research experience, and GRE preparation. In addition, the program supports and encourages attendance and presentation at research conferences and seminars across the country and abroad. The program focuses on serving first-generation college students from low income backgrounds, or students from groups underrepresented in graduate education.

We invite you to submit an application to the McNair Scholars Program. To apply you must meet the following criteria:

1. Have completed at least 60 credit hours and be attending Virginia Tech or Hampton University as a full time student enrolled in at least 12 credit hours. (Sophomore, Junior or Senior status).
2. Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
3. Meet eligibility criteria for federal McNair Scholars Program (first-generation college student and low income student or underrepresented in graduate education).

• Low-income, first-generation refers to students of any race/ethnicity who come from families where neither parent has earned a four-year degree and the household income is at or below levels established by the federal government.
• Underrepresented students in graduate education include: African-American, Hispanic, and Native-American undergraduates enrolled in any field of study.

To apply you must submit a completed application package:

1. Application
2. Resume
3. A copy of the student’s Fall 2011 grade report or academic transcript
4. A copy of the student’s and/or the parent/guardian’s 1040 or 1040A tax forms for 2011
5. Essays (responses to application questions)
6. Two letters /  forms of recommendation(preferably one from faculty within major). Letters/forms may be included with application or mailed/faxed separately

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Applications should be returned to:

Virginia Tech McNair Scholars Program

Center for Academic Enrichment and Excellence

110 Femoyer Hall (0276)
Blacksburg, VA 24061
FAX: 540-231-2031

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Please return completed applications with all documents listed above by February 17, 2012. If you have any questions or need additional information, contact Mary Grace Campos via email or by phone at 540-231-5499.