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McNair Mission

To increase the number of first-generation college students from low-income families and members of underrepresented groups in the nation’s professoriate.

About Dr. Ronald McNair

Ronald Erwin McNair was born October 21, 1950 in Lake City, South Carolina. While in junior high school, Dr. McNair was inspired to work hard and persevere in his studies by his family and by a teacher who recognized his scientific potential and believed in him. Dr. McNair graduated as valedictorian from Carver High School in 1967. In 1971, he graduated magna cum laude and received a bachelor of science degree in Physics from North Carolina A&T State University (Greensboro). Dr. McNair then enrolled in the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In 1976, at the age of 26, he earned his Ph.D. in laser physics. His dissertation was titled, “Energy Absorption and Vibrational Heating in Molecules Following Intense Laser Excitation.” Dr. McNair was presented an honorary doctorate of Laws from North Carolina A&T State University in 1978, an honorary doctorate of Science from Morris College in 1980, and an honorary doctorate of science from the University of South Carolina in 1984. While working as a staff physicist with Hughes Research Laboratory, Dr. McNair soon became a recognized expert in laser physics.

Applicants are required to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Plan to pursue a Ph.D. or Ed.D. (professional degrees such as MD, JD, MBA, PharmD, and similar programs are not eligible).
• Plan to enroll in graduate school immediately after graduating from UCF.
• Be both low income* and first‑generation (neither parent nor legal guardian has completed a bachelor’s degree).
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Be enrolled full‑time as an undergraduate student at UCF.
• Have completed at least 60 credit hours.
• Have at least four semesters remaining before graduation (excluding summers).
• Be able to participate full‑time in a summer research experience at UCF or an external institution during the summer prior to graduation.

*Students who receive a Pell Grant may qualify as low income. Applicants can review the U.S. Department of Education’s low‑income guidelines to confirm eligibility.

Students who are unsure whether they meet the criteria or whether the program is a good fit for their circumstances are encouraged to review the program FAQ or contact the office at gpsprep@ucf.edu for assistance.

The program provides a challenging and supportive environment that is conducive to learning and personal/professional development.

The program offers:

• Individualized academic and personal support from McNair staff
• Involvement in a cohesive community of scholars and educators
• Experience conducting research
• Participation in summer research experience while receiving a scholarship of up to $2,800, tuition for the academic credits earned from the research experience, and assistance with room and board.
• Faculty, graduate student, and peer mentoring
• Opportunities to participate in research conferences and visit graduate schools
• Assistance in locating and applying to graduate schools
• Workshops on the graduate school application process, financial aid, scholarships and fellowships
• GRE preparation

Applications open each fall semester. Please check back in August for the official opening dates.

Application Instructions

Before beginning this online form, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the full application and ensure they have all required information readily available. Because the form does not include a save feature, it must be completed and submitted in a single session. To streamline the process, applicants are advised to draft all written statements in a separate document and then copy and paste the final text into the application.

During the application, you will be asked to:

• Provide academic, financial, and demographic information.
• Indicate the highest level of education completed by each parent or legal guardian.
• Confirm whether you received a Pell Grant or Federal Work Study in your most recent financial aid award package.
• Upload a current résumé or curriculum vitae (CV).
• Identify the top three graduate programs you plan to apply to.
• Submit a brief statement of research interests (250 words) and a statement of purpose (1,000 words).

Research

Undergraduate research experience is a central component of academic preparation for graduate and professional programs. Engaging in research allows students to explore areas of interest, refine their academic and career goals, and identify graduate programs that align with those interests. Through this process, students develop essential skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem‑solving—competencies highly valued by advanced degree programs. Research experience also strengthens a student’s application for admission and funding opportunities and helps foster meaningful relationships with faculty members who may serve as mentors or recommenders.

Graduate and Professional School Preparation

Preparation for advanced study includes developing a strong understanding of program requirements, prerequisites, and expectations across disciplines. Students research potential graduate or professional schools, evaluate program fit, meet academic standards, and prepare materials such as résumés, statements of purpose, and personal statements. Effective preparation also involves gaining relevant experience, engaging with academic communities, and building relationships with faculty or mentors who can offer guidance and provide letters of recommendation.

Wellness

Wellness is a vital element of successful graduate and professional school preparation. The application process and the demands of advanced study require sustained focus, resilience, and intentional self‑care. Maintaining physical, emotional, and mental well‑being supports academic performance, motivation, and long‑term success. Practices such as consistent sleep, healthy nutrition, regular exercise, mindfulness, and stress‑management strategies help students stay balanced and avoid burnout. GPS Prep encourages students to reflect on all dimensions of wellness and integrate healthy habits into their academic and personal routines.

Applicants are required to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Endorsement from a UCF faculty member who has agreed to serve as your Faculty Mentor; the Faculty Mentor must submit the endorsement form by the application deadline.
• Plan to pursue a graduate or professional degree after graduating from UCF.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Be enrolled full‑time as an undergraduate student at UCF.
• Have completed at least 60 credit hours.
• Have at least two years remaining before graduation.

Students who are unsure whether they meet the criteria or whether the program is a good fit for their circumstances are encouraged to review the program FAQ or contact the office at gpsprep@ucf.edu for assistance.

The program provides a challenging and supportive environment that is conducive to learning and personal/professional development.

The program offers:

• Research scholarship support
• Individualized academic and professional guidance
• Hands‑on research experience with a faculty mentor
• Opportunities to present research at the UCF Student Scholars Symposium
• Access to workshops focused on graduate and professional school preparation, undergraduate research, and funding opportunities
• Graduation stole upon program completion
• Engagement in a supportive community of scholars, educators, and undergraduate researchers

Applications open each fall semester. Please check back in August for the official opening dates.

Application Instructions

The RAMP application includes several required sections and documents that must be completed in full before submission. Please review the required components to ensure you are prepared to provide all necessary information.

Application Components:

• Eligibility Requirements
• Biographical Information
• Contact Information
• Demographic Information
• Academic Information
• Research Involvement at UCF
• Faculty Endorsement & Endorsement Form
• Applicants must download the form from the Supporting Documents section of the application.
• Supplementary Materials (Personal Statement and Resume or CV)
• Future Plans
• Family Information
• Financial Information
• Additional Information
• Application Submission Agreement
• Release Form
  

RAMP Faculty Mentor Endorsement

Applicants must download the RAMP Endorsement Form and send it to the faculty member who has agreed to serve as their mentor. The faculty mentor must complete all required fields, sign the form (electronic signatures are accepted), and return it to the applicant for upload. The endorsement form helps the review committee evaluate the applicant’s readiness for undergraduate research and motivation to pursue graduate or professional education.

Note: Applications will not be considered without a completed and signed endorsement form.

Personal Statement

Applicants must type their Personal Statement directly into the application. The statement should describe academic and career goals, areas of interest, motivations for pursuing those interests, and how participation in RAMP will support those goals.

Resume/CV

Applicants must upload a current and updated resume or CV.

What is the Research and Mentoring Program (RAMP) program? 
RAMP is an undergraduate research program at UCF designed to support students who plan to pursue graduate or professional school. Participants work closely with a faculty mentor on a research project and receive structured support to strengthen their academic preparation and competitiveness for advanced degree programs.

Who is eligible for RAMP? 
Read the eligibility section of our website and see if you are eligible to apply for the program.

What are the benefits of participating in RAMP?
RAMP Scholars receive a research scholarship, individualized support, hands‑on research experience, opportunities to present at the UCF Student Scholars Symposium, access to preparation resources, a graduation stole upon completion, and involvement in a supportive community of scholars, educators, and researchers.

How can I apply? 
Applicants must complete and submit the online application by the stated deadline. After review, selected candidates will be invited to interview with the selection committee before final decisions are made.

The Pre‑Health Scholars program is designed to support UCF students who are committed to pursuing a health professional pathway, such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and related fields. As part of this program, Scholars join a community of peers who are actively preparing for professional school and demonstrating strong academic engagement.

Pre‑Health Scholars gain access to structured opportunities that help them build a competitive application. This includes connecting with campus resources, strengthening foundational skills needed for their chosen health field, and participating in activities that reinforce professionalism, academic excellence, and intentional preparation. The program highlights students who are making steady progress toward their goals and encourages continued growth as they prepare for the next stage of their academic journey.

Applicants are required to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Plan to pursue a health professional degree after graduating from UCF.
• Have a minimum UCF GPA of 3.25.
• In good academic standing with UCF.
• Be enrolled either part-time or full‑time as an undergraduate student at UCF.
• Have completed at least 60 credit hours.
• Be committed to completing all requirements in the course.

Students who are unsure whether they meet the criteria or whether the program is a good fit for their circumstances are encouraged to review the program FAQ or contact the office at gpsprep@ucf.edu for assistance.

The program offers:

• Pre-Health Scholars Program Certificate of Completion
• Graduation Cord
• Designation as a Pre-Health Scholar
• Recognition on social media platforms
• Invitation to participate in selective GPS Prep programs
• Opportunities to strengthen foundational skills needed for professional school, including professionalism, communication, and academic readiness.
• Access to program‑specific activities and resources that reinforce your preparation and help you stay on track toward your goals.
• Support in developing strong habits and experiences that contribute to a competitive professional school application.

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Application Instructions

To apply to the Pre‑Health Scholars program, students must complete the online application and submit all required information. Before beginning the application, applicants are encouraged to review the program’s eligibility criteria to ensure they meet all requirements. The application will ask for academic information, details about your intended health pathway, and confirmation of your current standing at UCF. Please take time to gather any materials you may need before starting the application so that you can complete it in one session.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the GPS Prep team. Additional communication may follow if clarification or further information is needed.

What is the Pre‑Health Scholars program?
The Pre‑Health Scholars program recognizes UCF students who are academically successful, engaged in their preparation, and committed to pursuing a health professional pathway. Scholars join a supportive community of peers who share similar goals and are actively working toward admission to programs such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and other health fields.

Who is eligible to apply?
Read the eligibility section of our website and see if you are eligible to apply for the program.

What are the benefits of being a Pre‑Health Scholar?
Pre‑Health Scholars receive recognition for their commitment to a health pathway, access to supportive resources, opportunities to strengthen key preparation skills, and connection to a motivated community of peers. The program is designed to help students stay engaged and build experiences that support a strong professional school application.

How do I apply?
Students must complete and submit the online application. Applications are accepted year‑round, and submissions are reviewed by the GPS Prep team. You are encouraged to apply once you meet all eligibility requirements.

Do I need prior clinical or shadowing experience?
No specific experience is required to apply. However, students should be actively preparing for a health professional program and working toward building a strong foundation for their intended pathway.

The Pre‑Law Scholars program is designed to support UCF students who are committed to pursuing a legal or law‑related professional pathway, including careers in law, policy, public service, government, and related fields. As part of this program, Scholars join a community of peers who are actively preparing for law school and demonstrating strong academic and professional engagement.

Pre‑Law Scholars gain access to structured opportunities that help them build a competitive law school application. This includes connecting with campus resources, strengthening foundational skills needed for success in the legal field—such as critical thinking, writing, analysis, and advocacy—and participating in activities that reinforce professionalism, academic excellence, and intentional preparation. The program highlights students who are making steady progress toward their goals and encourages continued growth as they prepare for the next stage of their academic journey.

Applicants are required to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Plan to pursue law school after graduating from UCF.
• Have a minimum UCF GPA of 3.25.
• In good academic standing with UCF.
• Be enrolled either part-time or full‑time as an undergraduate student at UCF.
• Have completed at least 60 credit hours.
• Be committed to completing all requirements in the course.

Students who are unsure whether they meet the criteria or whether the program is a good fit for their circumstances are encouraged to review the program FAQ or contact the office at gpsprep@ucf.edu for assistance.

The program offers:

• Pre-Law Scholars Program Certificate of Completion
• Graduation Cord
• Designation as a Pre-Law Scholar
• Recognition on social media platforms
• Invitation to participate in selective GPS Prep programs
• Opportunities to strengthen foundational skills needed for law school, including professionalism, communication, and academic readiness.
• Access to program‑specific activities and resources that reinforce your preparation and help you stay on track toward your goals.
• Support in developing strong habits and experiences that contribute to a competitive law school application.
  

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Application Instructions

To apply to the Pre‑Law Scholars program, students must complete the online application and submit all required information. Before beginning the application, applicants are encouraged to review the program’s eligibility criteria to ensure they meet all requirements. The application will ask for academic information, details about your intended pathway, and confirmation of your current standing at UCF. Please take time to gather any materials you may need before starting the application so that you can complete it in one session.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the GPS Prep team. Additional communication may follow if clarification or further information is needed.

What is the Pre‑Law Scholars program?
The Pre‑Law Scholars program recognizes UCF students who are academically successful, engaged in their preparation, and committed to pursuing law school. Scholars join a supportive community of peers who share similar goals and are actively working toward admission to law school.

Who is eligible to apply?
Read the eligibility section of our website and see if you are eligible to apply for the program.

What are the benefits of being a Pre‑Law Scholar?
Pre‑Law Scholars receive recognition for their commitment to the law field, access to supportive resources, opportunities to strengthen key preparation skills, and connection to a motivated community of peers. The program is designed to help students stay engaged and build experiences that support a strong law school application.

How do I apply?
Students must complete and submit the online application. Applications are accepted year‑round, and submissions are reviewed by the GPS Prep team. You are encouraged to apply once you meet all eligibility requirements.

The Pre‑Graduate School Knights (PGK) program is designed to support UCF students who are committed to pursuing an advanced degree and preparing intentionally for the graduate school application process. The program provides a flexible, self‑directed structure that allows participants to tailor their development while meeting clear expectations for academic engagement and progress. As part of this program, Scholars join a community of peers who are actively preparing for graduate studies and demonstrating focused, goal‑driven commitment to their future academic pathways.

PGK Scholars gain access to structured opportunities that help them build a competitive graduate school application. This includes connecting with relevant campus resources, exploring graduate program expectations, strengthening foundational skills needed for success in advanced coursework and research, and participating in activities that reinforce professionalism, academic excellence, and intentional preparation. The program highlights students who are making steady progress toward their goals and encourages continued growth as they prepare for the next stage of their academic journey, ultimately recognizing their achievements through program completion milestones.

Applicants are required to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Plan to pursue graduate school after graduating from UCF.
• In good academic standing with UCF.
• Be enrolled either part-time or full‑time as an undergraduate student at UCF.
• Have completed at least 60 credit hours.
• Be committed to completing all requirements in the course.
• Have at least two semesters remaining before graduation (includes summer terms).

Students who are unsure whether they meet the criteria or whether the program is a good fit for their circumstances are encouraged to review the program FAQ or contact the office at gpsprep@ucf.edu for assistance.

The program offers:

• Pre-Graduate Knights Program Certificate of Completion
• Graduation Cord
• Designation as a Pre-Graduate Scholar
• Recognition on social media platforms
• Invitation to participate in selective GPS Prep programs
• Opportunities to strengthen foundational skills needed for graduate school, including professionalism, communication, and academic readiness.
• Access to program‑specific activities and resources that reinforce your preparation and help you stay on track toward your goals.

Support in developing strong habits and experiences that contribute to a competitive graduate school application.

The program accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Application Instructions

To apply to the Pre‑Graduate Knights program, students must complete the online application and submit all required information. Before beginning the application, applicants are encouraged to review the program’s eligibility criteria to ensure they meet all requirements. The application will ask for academic information, details about your intended pathway, and confirmation of your current standing at UCF. Please take time to gather any materials you may need before starting the application so that you can complete it in one session.

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the GPS Prep team. Additional communication may follow if clarification or further information is needed.

What is the Pre‑Graduate Knights program?
The Pre‑Graduate Knights (PGK) program recognizes UCF students who are academically successful, engaged in their preparation, and committed to pursuing graduate school. Scholars join a supportive community of peers who share similar goals and are actively working toward admission to graduate programs.

Who is eligible to apply?
Read the eligibility section of our website and see if you are eligible to apply for the program.

What are the benefits of being a Pre‑Graduate Knights?
Pre‑Graduate Knights receive recognition for their commitment to graduate school, access to supportive resources, opportunities to strengthen key preparation skills, and connection to a motivated community of peers. The program is designed to help students stay engaged and build experiences that support a strong graduate school application.

How do I apply?
Students must complete and submit the online application. Applications are accepted year‑round, and submissions are reviewed by the GPS Prep team. You are encouraged to apply once you meet all eligibility requirements.