REQUIREMENTS AND CAMPUS GUIDE
University of Notre Dame
Founded in 1842 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, the University of Notre Dame has grown to become one of the leading universities in the United States, ranked #20 in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges ranking. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, drawing students from across the globe who are eager to engage in a values-based education that emphasizes both intellectual growth and ethical leadership.
REQUIREMENTS AND CAMPUS GUIDE
University of Notre Dame
Founded in 1842 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, the University of Notre Dame has grown to become one of the leading universities in the United States, ranked #20 in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges ranking. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, drawing students from across the globe who are eager to engage in a values-based education that emphasizes both intellectual growth and ethical leadership.
REQUIREMENTS AND CAMPUS GUIDE
University of Notre Dame
Founded in 1842 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, the University of Notre Dame has grown to become one of the leading universities in the United States, ranked #20 in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges ranking. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, drawing students from across the globe who are eager to engage in a values-based education that emphasizes both intellectual growth and ethical leadership.
School Location:
NOTRE DAME, IN
School Type:
PRIVATE RESEARCH UNIVERSITY
Admissions Rates:
ADMITTED: 12.38%
GENERAL INFO
SAT/ACT Scores:
Test Optional for 2024-2025
Admission Cycle
Class of 2027 Test Scores
Middle 50% SAT:
1440-1540
Middle 50% ACT: 32-35
Dates/Deadlines:
Restricted Early Action:
November 1
Regular Decision:
January 1
School Information:
Undergraduate population:
8,909
Faculty Ratio:
9:1
Interviews Considered:
No
NOTRE DAME TIPS & GUIDE
How difficult is it to get into Notre Dame?
Notre Dame is a selective institution, with a 12.38% acceptance rate for the 2023-24 application cycle. Though the school is test-optional, the 25-75% SAT score range fell between 1440-1540, and ACT between 32-35. Academic factors such as GPA, course rigor, class rank, essay, and recommendations were considered very important for admissions, while tests were considered if submitted. Non-academic factors such as character, extracurriculars, talents, and volunteer work were considered very important in admissions decisions as well.
What is the campus like at Notre Dame?
Notre Dame is located outside of South Bend, Indiana, within driving distance to Indianapolis, and about 90 miles east of Chicago. The university’s picturesque campus features iconic landmarks such as the Golden Dome, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, creating a serene and inspiring environment for students. Although many consider Notre Dame to be relatively remote, there is very easy transportation from campus to South Bend. Students frequently venture into town for performances at the Civic Learning Center or out to the Rapids to enjoy white water rafting.
While some students may hesitate to go to a school that is not located close to a major city or distinct professional opportunities, it’s important to know that Notre Dame’s website notes that “500 employers visit campus every year to recruit our students, conducting more than 7,000 interviews.” Additionally, alumni are located all around the world, so you’ll feel very connected to the Notre Dame alumni network no matter where you find yourself living or job searching post-graduation.
Notre Dame’s vibrant campus life, featuring Division I athletics, over 500 student organizations, leadership opportunities, and rich cultural traditions, fosters a close-knit community where students can thrive both academically and personally. While community service is not required, 80% of undergraduate students engage in service or service-learning at least once while on campus, reflecting the campus’ values and identity in community service.
How do I apply to Notre Dame?
Students applying to ND can do so through the Common App or Coalition App. Applicants must submit:
- The Notre Dame Writing Supplement
- Two essays each under 150 words (two out of three essay options)
- Three short answer questions of no more than 50 words (three out of five short answer options)
- Official High School Transcript
- Restrictive Early Action applicants are encouraged to submit an optional progress report of first quarter or first-trimester performance.
- A letter of evaluation from a high school teacher in a core academic subject area who knows you well
- Counselor evaluation (recommended, not required)
- SAT or ACT assessment scores- Notre Dame is test-optional for 2025 application cycle
- $75 application fee. A fee waiver option is available based on financial need.
Applicants can apply Restrictive Early Action or Regular Decision. Restrictive Early Action (REA) limits students to only apply to Notre Dame in the early cycle, and the deadline is November 1st. Students applying in the Regular Decision round must do so by January 1st.
What is Notre Dame known for?
Notre Dame is a leading research institution, with significant contributions in fields such as science, engineering, social sciences, and the humanities. The university is committed to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research centers and institutes, such as the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), the Center for Social Concerns, and the Notre Dame Democracy Initiative.
Notre Dame is also particularly renowned for its strong emphasis on values-based education, integrating academic rigor with a commitment to service and ethical leadership. The university’s robust alumni network, which includes leaders in various fields, provides valuable connections and opportunities for current students.
How diverse is Notre Dame?
The University of Notre Dame has a roughly even population of men and women on campus, with 4,579 men and 4,374 women in the full-time, undergraduate student body. Likewise, the school’s racial makeup consists of 13.5% Hispanic/Latino, 4.6% Black, 5.6% Asian, and 61% white.
Does Notre Dame have a good athletic department?
Notre Dame is famous for its athletic programs, particularly its storied football team, the Fighting Irish. The university’s athletic traditions are deeply woven into its identity, with a strong emphasis on sportsmanship, teamwork, and excellence. Notre Dame is a member of the NCAA Division I and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for most sports, and its football team competes as an independent. Notre Dame’s men’s basketball team has made numerous appearances in the NCAA Tournament, with their first appearance dating back to 1953. The team has reached the Final Four once, in 1978. The school has a dedicated fan base and a history of producing outstanding athletes such as Joe Montana, Joe Theismann, Austin Carr, and Carl Yastrzemski.
What are Notre Dame’s core curriculum and programs?
The University of Notre Dame offers approximately 75 degree programs across its Arts and Letters, Business, Science, Engineering, Architecture, and Global Affairs schools.
The university’s Mendoza College of Business, School of Architecture, and College of Engineering are highly respected for their innovative programs and research contributions. Additionally, Notre Dame’s Law School and Keough School of Global Affairs attract students with a passion for social justice and global engagement.
ND students are set up for success. 97% of graduates are placed in careers, graduate schools, or service opportunities within six months of graduating. Support as a graduate is also abundant for the Fighting Irish alum, with a 90% acceptance rate to law school and roughly 80% of pre-med majors get into med school.
Can I afford Notre Dame?
The total cost of attendance for the 2024-2025 academic year is $86,125. This is obviously a high sticker price, however, Notre Dame offers strong financial aid and is committed to meeting 100% of every student’s demonstrated financial need.
