TRiO McNAIR SCHOLARS PROGRAM IS RECRUITING!
The TRiO McNair Scholars Program at Old Dominion University is NOW RECRUITING for our Fall 2026 Cohort!
Are you interested in undergraduate research, graduate school, and earning a master’s degree or Ph.D.? Are you ready to build your skills, expand your network, and take the next step toward your academic and professional goals?
McNair may be for you!
Priority Application Deadline: October 1 at 11:59 PM
WHAT IS THE McNAIR SCHOLARS PROGRAM?
The TRiO McNair Scholars Program is a federally funded program that prepares eligible undergraduate students for graduate education through research experiences, academic preparation, faculty mentorship, and comprehensive graduate school support.
We are currently recruiting motivated sophomores with at least 30 earned college credits - and yes, transfer credits count! - who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree or Ph.D.
ALL MAJORS ARE WELCOME!
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Students should:
- Be a first-generation college student AND Pell-eligible, OR be underrepresented in their field
- Have a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Have earned at least 30 college credits (transfer credits count!)
- Be interested in pursuing graduate education — a master’s degree or Ph.D.
WHY McNAIR?
McNair is more than a program - it’s a community designed to help you grow as a scholar and prepare for what comes after your bachelor’s degree.
As a McNair Scholar, you’ll have opportunities to:
- Gain meaningful undergraduate research experience
- Connect with faculty mentors and fellow scholars
- Explore graduate programs and career pathways
- Strengthen your graduate school applications
- Develop the academic and professional skills needed for graduate education
- Receive guidance and support throughout your journey to graduate school
Whether you already know you want to pursue a Ph.D. or you’re just beginning to explore graduate school, McNair can help you discover what’s possible and prepare you to get there.
WANT TO LEARN MORE? JOIN US VIRTUALLY!
Not sure if McNair is right for you? Join us for one of our upcoming virtual information sessions and workshops! Each session will introduce you to the McNair Scholars Program while also providing practical information you can use right now.
September 17 | 12:30–1:30 PM | Zoom
Getting Involved with Undergraduate Research on Campus & Nationally
Learn how to find research opportunities at and beyond — and how undergraduate research can strengthen your academic journey.
September 22 | 12:30–1:30 PM | Zoom
Building Your Mentorship Network
Learn how to identify and build relationships with faculty, research mentors, and other professionals who can support your academic and career goals.
September 29 | 12:30–1:30 PM | Zoom
Submitting Competitive Applications for Graduate School & Research Opportunities
Learn what makes an application stand out and how to position your experiences, interests, and goals competitively.
All virtual sessions:
READY TO BECOME A McNAIR SCHOLAR?
Visit the TRiO McNair Scholars Program website to learn more and access the application:
Priority Application Deadline: October 1 at 11:59 PM
For additional information about the program, check out our program flier!
Your undergraduate experience is just the beginning. Come see how far McNair can take you.