Vice Chair of the Board of Regents, Jack L. Fortner | The University of New Mexico
Vice Chair of the Board of Regents, Jack L. Fortner | The University of New Mexico
The University of New Mexico is now accepting applications for the McNair Scholars and Research Opportunity Program (ROP) for the 2025-26 cohort. The program aims to prepare undergraduates for graduate school through research stipends, faculty mentorship, and opportunities to present at national conferences. The priority deadline for applications is March 31.
"McNair and ROP is a graduate school prep program aimed at helping our undergraduate participants gain admission to graduate schools nationwide," said Ricardo Romero, director of the program. "There are 216 federally funded McNair Programs across the country, and we’re proud to support students at UNM in achieving their academic goals."
The program offers several benefits such as paid travel opportunities, graduate school application fee waivers, GRE prep courses, and intensive advisement. A significant component of the program is a faculty-mentored summer research internship which helps make participants competitive applicants for graduate programs.
“These experiences are what competitive graduate schools seek in successful applicants,” Romero stated. “Our scholars emerge from the program prepared for the rigors of graduate school, and because of their intensive preparation, they are actively recruited by universities nationwide.”
Prospective students can find more information on applying by visiting mcnair.unm.edu. Romero assures that the application process is straightforward and quick.
“Past applicants have completed the application in as little as 15 minutes. So why not apply if you’re interested?” he encouraged. “We’ve made it easy to encourage more students to take advantage of this opportunity. And if you have questions, reach out—we love talking with students.”
Upcoming events include the Summer Research Symposium on July 28 and the UNM McNair Scholars Research Conference on September 4-5 at the Student Union Building; both events are free and open to all.
For further details, contact the McNair Scholars Program via email at mcnair@unm.edu or call 505-277-5491.
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