Entry into select graduate school programs is highly competitive. Only a few of the students that apply to select graduate school programs are accepted.

McNair scholars have distinct advantages over applicants that are not McNair scholars. Here are a few of the benefits that afford McNair scholars respect and consideration from graduate school selection committees.

• McNair scholars receive personalized one-on-one academic advising, coaching, and consultation focused on academic achievement, developing research skills, and applying to graduate school.
• McNair program professionals and Ph.D. faculty members guide McNair scholars in the development of responsible academic skills and the acquisition of scholarly performance standards requisite for survival in demanding graduate school programs.
• McNair scholars can participate in paid summer research internships at extensive doctoral-granting institutions and other graduate centers across the nation.
• McNair scholars establish a curriculum vitae while an undergraduate, thus positioning themselves for future professional advancement in graduate school, higher education instruction, administration, and professional research.
• McNair scholars receive awards and special recognition for excellent undergraduate achievement. Many graduate at the top of their class.
• McNair scholars receive quality graduate school recommendations from program professionals and from Ph.D. faculty members.
• McNair scholars are offered EKU Presidential Scholarships to offset the cost of undergraduate education.
• Once the baccalaureate is achieved, McNair scholars are eligible to apply for lucrative McNair fellowships that pay living stipends and the cost of graduate school attendance at some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the nation.