Notre Dame Acceptance Rates: Admissions Statistics

The University of Notre Dame, a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and rich traditions, draws thousands of applications yearly. Understanding the Notre Dame acceptance rate and admissions process is a critical step for those aspiring to join its vibrant community.

What is Notre Dame’s Acceptance Rate?

The University of Notre Dame’s acceptance rate is a key indicator of its selectivity and the competitiveness of its admissions process. So, what is Notre Dame’s acceptance rate? In this year’s admissions cycle, the university received 28,354 applications for its first-year class but admitted only 12% of these applicants. 

The institution’s low acceptance rate highlights how selective the institution is, seeking students who excel academically and align with the university’s values and community spirit. The high number of applications and the selective admit rate indicate that getting into Notre Dame is highly competitive, reflecting the university’s reputation for academic excellence and a vibrant campus life.

This selective admissions process ensures that the students who join Notre Dame are well-prepared to thrive in its rigorous academic environment and contribute positively to the university community.

Early Action and Early Decision

The University of Notre Dame offers Restrictive Early Action (REA) as an application option. The REA acceptance rate for the Class of 2027 was 15%, and for the Class of 2028, it was 14.99%. The REA program is non-binding, allowing students to apply in REA as long as they do not apply early decision to another school.

The University of Notre Dame’s Restrictive Early Action (REA) acceptance rates for the last 5 years are as follows:

Class	REA
2028	14.99%
2027	15%
2026	no data
2025	no data
2024	no data

Notre Dame’s Acceptance Rate Trends

The acceptance rate at the University of Notre Dame has become more selective over the past ten years, showing a clear trend toward admitting fewer students.

Class of	Total Applications Received	Notre Dame Acceptance Rate
2018	17,901	21.10%
2019	18,157	19.80%
2020	19,505	18.70%
2021	19,564	18.90%
2022	20,371	17.70%
2023	22,200	15.80%
2024	21,253	19%
2025	23,642	15.10%
2026	26,508	12.90%
2027	28,354	12%

In examining the data from the Class of 2018 to the Class of 2027, a clear pattern can be seen in the university’s acceptance rates. They have gone down from 21.10% to a tight 12 percent. During the same time, there was a significant increase in the number of applications, from 17,901 to 28,354.

Several key changes stand out when analyzing the Notre Dame acceptance rate trends. A significant factor has been the implementation of a test-optional admissions policy. As standardized test scores became optional for applicants, the barrier to applying was lowered, leading to a more diverse applicant pool and a surge in applications—most notably for the Class of 2026 and 2027.

Moreover, Notre Dame’s unwavering commitment to a need-blind admissions process has played a crucial role in this trend. By assuring applicants that their financial circumstances would not be a determining factor in their admissions decision, Notre Dame attracted a broader demographic of students, contributing to the rise in application numbers.

Furthermore, Notre Dame’s commitment to supporting students with financial needs has likely led to more students applying. Knowing that the university offers significant financial aid makes a Notre Dame education more accessible, especially for those who may find the cost of private college prohibitive.

Finally, external influences such as economic conditions, societal trends towards higher education, and the perceived value of a Notre Dame degree have all contributed to the increasing demand.

The university’s response to these trends, focusing on maintaining selective and holistic admissions, ensures that it admits not only students with outstanding academic records but also those who demonstrate the potential to contribute to the university’s vibrant community in meaningful ways.

The changes in Notre Dame’s acceptance rates over the years reflect how competitive it has become to get into the university. These trends show Notre Dame’s continued efforts to open its doors wider, welcoming a diverse range of students.  As the university keeps up with changes in the world of college admissions, we can expect this commitment to accessibility and diversity to remain a priority, shaping the future of its student body.

Notre Dame Admissions Statistics

Notre Dame has once again proven to be a top choice for students across the globe, receiving over 28,000 applications in the latest admissions cycle. With only about 3,500 acceptances, the university maintains its reputation for selectivity. This year, 60% of those admitted have committed to attending, filling the intended freshman class size of roughly 2,060 students.

The Class of 2027 is shaping up to be a group of academically gifted individuals, leaders in their communities, and students dedicated to the principles of the university.

Notre Dame Demographics

The demographic distribution of Notre Dame’s latest enrollees indicates a strong commitment to diversity and representation:

Gender Balance:

• Female Students: 49%
• Male Students: 51%

Ethnic and Geographical Diversity:

• U.S. Students of Color: 34%
• International Students: 8%
• Residents from all 50 U.S. states and 48 nations

Socioeconomic Inclusivity:

• First-Generation and Pell Grant Recipients: 20.5%

Geographic Origins

The new class comes from a wide range of regions, underlining the university’s national and international appeal:

• West: 11%
• Midwest: 32%
• Northeast: 19%
• Southeast: 18%
• Southwest: 9%
• Outside the U.S.: 11%

Engagement and Leadership

The Class of 2027 is actively involved in both community service and extracurricular activities, as shown by the following:

• Community Service Participation: 87%
• Arts Involvement (music, drama, fine arts, dance): 44%
• Varsity Sports Captains: 43%
• Leadership in Major Student Organizations: 26%

Academic Interests

The academic preferences of the incoming class are varied, highlighting Notre Dame’s diverse offerings:

• Business: 25%
• Engineering: 23%
• Science: 23%
• Architecture: 3%
• Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences: 23%
• Global Affairs: 3%

The recent Notre Dame admissions statistics highlight the university’s focus on both high academic standards and a diverse student body. The incoming Class of 2027 is comprised of individuals from various backgrounds, all joining a university that’s committed to helping them grow and make a meaningful impact in the world.

Significantly, there’s been a rise in students who are the first in their families to attend college and those receiving Pell Grants as a result of Notre Dame’s collaboration with QuestBridge. This reflects the university’s progressive approach to building an inclusive community that upholds its foundational values and goals for broadening educational access.

SAT/ACT Scores for Notre Dame Admits

For students admitted to the University of Notre Dame, the SAT and ACT scores play a notable role, although they are not the sole criterion for admission. Here’s a breakdown of the SAT/ACT scores for Notre Dame admits:

• SAT Scores Middle 50% Range: 1450 to 1530
• ACT Scores Middle 50% Range: 33 to 35

These figures represent a competitive academic profile, indicating the high caliber of students Notre Dame attracts. Notably, Notre Dame has adopted a test-optional policy for the 2024 and 2025 application cycles, allowing students to decide whether to include their standardized test scores as part of their application. This approach provides flexibility and acknowledges the diverse strengths of applicants beyond standardized testing.

Applicants choosing to report their SAT and/or ACT scores can do so through their application or via the applicant student portal. It’s important to note that if a student is admitted and decides to enroll at Notre Dame, they must then submit official score reports from the testing agencies.

For those who opt to have their test scores considered, Notre Dame employs a ‘best score’ policy. This means the university considers the highest composite score and the highest scores in each section across all test dates. This approach underscores Notre Dame’s commitment to evaluating students in the most favorable light, considering their best performance on these standardized tests.

Overall, while SAT and ACT scores are part of the admissions process for those who choose to submit them, Notre Dame’s test-optional policy and holistic review process ensure that a student’s potential is evaluated on multiple dimensions, not just test scores.

What Notre Dame Looks For

Students frequently ask what Notre Dame looks for in its applicants. The university employs a holistic admissions process, focusing on more than just grades and test scores.

The University of Notre Dame’s admissions process is designed to select students who stand out in their highly competitive applicant pool. This comprehensive approach considers various factors that resonate with the university’s core values and ethos, ensuring a well-rounded assessment of each candidate’s potential.

Academic Performance in High School

Notre Dame does not set minimum GPA or class rank thresholds, but the competition is intense, drawing applicants who are among the best in their regions or countries. Success in a rigorous high school curriculum is a key indicator, as the university values students who challenge themselves and excel academically.

High School Academic Requirements

Specific course completion is required for admission consideration:

• English: 4 units
• Mathematics: At least 3 units, including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry, with 4 units preferred. Some majors require advanced courses like Pre-Calculus or Calculus.
• Foreign Language: 2 units (3-4 units preferred)
• Science: 2 units (4 units preferred for specific science and engineering majors)
• History/Social Science: 2 units (3-4 units preferred)

Applicants who surpass these basic requirements, particularly those who have taken the most challenging courses available to them, generally present stronger applications.

Standardized Tests

Recognizing the diverse strengths of applicants, Notre Dame has adopted a test-optional policy for the 2024 and 2025 cycles. However, those who opt to submit SAT or ACT scores should know that Notre Dame uses a super-scoring approach, considering the highest scores obtained in multiple sittings.

Extracurricular Activities

The university seeks students who engage deeply in activities beyond academics. This includes leadership roles, artistic pursuits, sports, community service, and other areas where students demonstrate passion and commitment.

Letter of Evaluation

A letter from a teacher in a core academic subject is required, providing insight into the student’s abilities and character. This letter offers a broader view of the student’s capabilities and contributions to their school community.

Essays

Essays are a vital component of the application, allowing students to showcase their personality, values, and experiences. It’s especially important at Notre Dame, where interviews are not part of the admissions process. The essays give a voice to the applicant, sharing stories of personal growth, challenges, and achievements.

Examples of Talent (Optional)

Applicants with a keen interest in arts, design, architecture, or music are encouraged to submit a portfolio or talent samples. This provides an opportunity to showcase creative abilities that might not be evident in other parts of the application.

Notre Dame’s comprehensive admissions process goes beyond the traditional metrics, seeking to understand the full spectrum of each applicant’s abilities and potential. The university is committed to building a diverse and dynamic student body that reflects a wide range of talents, interests, and backgrounds, aligned with its mission to foster holistic development and positive societal impact.

How Hard Is It to Get Into Notre Dame?

Gaining admission to the University of Notre Dame is a highly competitive endeavor, reflective of its status as one of the elite universities in the United States.

How hard is it to get into Notre Dame? With an acceptance rate of 12%, Notre Dame stands among some of the most selective institutions, though it is somewhat more accessible compared to Ivy League schools and certain other elite universities.

For context, Ivy League universities like Harvard, Yale, and Columbia have acceptance rates below 5%, showcasing an even more stringent selection process. Schools such as Brown University and Dartmouth College, while still highly selective, offer slightly higher acceptance rates at around 5% to 6%. This level of selectivity underscores the elite status of these institutions and the intense competition among applicants.

Comparatively, Notre Dame’s 12% acceptance rate places it in a similar bracket with other prestigious universities outside the Ivy League. For instance, Washington University in St. Louis also admits 12% of its applicants, while UC Berkeley has an acceptance rate of 11.6%. These institutions, like Notre Dame, are known for their rigorous academic standards and vibrant campus cultures, attracting a diverse and talented student body.

Other universities, such as NYU and UCLA, have acceptance rates of 8% and 8.8%, respectively, indicating a slightly more competitive admissions process than Notre Dame. Rice University, another renowned institution, has an acceptance rate of 7.9%, making it one of the more selective universities comparable to Notre Dame.

This comparison highlights that while Notre Dame is indeed selective, it is comparatively more accessible than some of its Ivy League counterparts. However, it maintains a level of exclusivity and prestige similar to other top-tier universities, striking a balance between selectivity and accessibility.

For prospective students, this means that while admission to Notre Dame is challenging, it is not as daunting as some of the ultra-selective Ivy League schools, yet it still offers a high-quality education and a respected degree.

Notre Dame Application Requirements

Applying to the University of Notre Dame involves several key components that applicants must prepare to ensure a complete and compelling application. Here’s a breakdown of the Notre Dame application requirements:

1. Application Submission

Candidates must submit their application through either the Common Application or Coalition Application platforms, where basic information and academic history are provided.

2. Notre Dame Writing Supplement

Notre Dame requires a writing supplement, which includes two brief essay questions and three short-answer responses chosen from a set of options. This supplement is a chance for applicants to showcase their personalities, creativity, and thought processes beyond academic statistics.

3. Official High School Transcripts

The admissions office requires an official transcript from your high school, detailing your academic achievements. For those applying under Restrictive Early Action, an optional summary or progress report of the first quarter or first-trimester performance can be submitted through the applicant status portal.

4. Letter of Evaluation

A letter of evaluation from a high school teacher who taught you a core academic subject (math, science, English, social science, or foreign language) is required. This letter should provide insights into your academic abilities and character.

5. Counselor Evaluation (Recommended)

While not mandatory, a counselor evaluation is recommended. This provides an additional perspective on your academic and personal development within the context of your high school environment.

6. Standardized Test Scores (Optional)

For the 2024 and 2025 application cycles, Notre Dame is test-optional. Applicants can choose whether to include ACT or SAT scores. This policy allows students to decide how best to present their academic strengths.

7. Application Fee

There is a non-refundable application fee of $75. Fee waivers are also available for eligible students.

8. SlideRoom Submissions (for applicants in specific fields)

• School of Architecture: Applicants focusing on architecture studies are encouraged to submit 10-12 images of their work.
• Department of Art/Design: Those pursuing a major in Art or Design are invited to submit 10-12 images showcasing their talent.
• Department of Music: All applicants, irrespective of their intended major, may submit 3-5 talent samples (each 5-10 minutes long) for evaluation.

9. English Proficiency Testing

For applicants whose primary first language is not English or who have not received their secondary education primarily in English, Notre Dame requires proof of English proficiency. This is an important aspect of the application process, ensuring that all students are well-prepared to engage in an English-speaking academic environment.

Accepted tests include TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, and the Duolingo English Test (DET). These tests assess an applicant’s ability to effectively understand and use English in an academic setting.

Notre Dame’s admissions process is designed to holistically evaluate applicants, considering not just academic prowess but also personal qualities, extracurricular involvement, and potential contribution to the Notre Dame community. By carefully complying with these requirements, applicants can give a complete view of themselves and what they can offer to Notre Dame.

Notre Dame Application Deadlines

When applying to the University of Notre Dame, understanding the application plans and their respective deadlines is crucial for effective planning. Notre Dame offers two primary application options: Restrictive Early Action (REA) and Regular Decision (RD).

Restrictive Early Action (REA)

• Applications Open: August 1
• Application Deadline: November 1
• Supporting Documents & SlideRoom Submissions: November 15
• Priority Deadline for Financial Aid: December 15 (FAFSA, CSS Profile, IDOC)

REA is ideal for students who consider Notre Dame their top choice. It’s a non-binding option, meaning students aren’t committed to enrolling if admitted but get the advantage of receiving their admission decision earlier.

Regular Decision (RD)

• Applications Open: August 1
• Application Deadline: January 1
• Supporting Documents & SlideRoom Submissions: January 15
• Priority Deadline for Financial Aid: February 15 (FAFSA, CSS Profile, IDOC)

RD is suitable for students who need more time to complete their applications or who are considering multiple colleges. It provides flexibility in decision-making and application preparation.

General Deadline

• Confirmation Deadline for All Accepted Students: May 1

Both application plans require thoughtful preparation. The REA plan allows early submission with the freedom to decide later, while RD provides additional time to enhance the application. It’s important to also consider financial aid deadlines in conjunction with application timelines. Staying organized and meeting these deadlines is key to a successful application to Notre Dame.

Notre Dame Tuition for 2023-2024

Financial considerations are crucial for students and families when choosing a college, especially for prestigious institutions like the University of Notre Dame. While the acceptance rate is an important factor, understanding the tuition and associated fees for the 2023-2024 academic year is equally vital in making an informed decision.

The total estimated cost at Notre Dame stands at $83,271, breaking down into several key components:

• Tuition and Fees: $62,693
• Housing and Food: $17,378
• Books and Supplies: $1,250
• Personal Expenses: $1,200
• Transportation: $750
• Total Estimated Cost of Attendance: $83,271

When considering the financial aspect of attending Notre Dame, prospective students should be aware of potential annual increases in costs. This may include increments in tuition, fees, room, and board. It’s important to plan for these changes, which are influenced by various economic factors.

A notable consideration is the transportation allowance. Due to Notre Dame’s diverse national student body, transportation costs can vary significantly, ranging from $500 to approximately $1,000. This variance accommodates the different distances students may travel from across the country.

Furthermore, personal expenses can also differ based on individual needs and lifestyles. Prospective students and families should factor in these expenses when budgeting for their time at Notre Dame.

While the academic rigor and the competitiveness reflected in Notre Dame’s acceptance rate are significant factors, the financial implications of attending Notre Dame are equally important.

The comprehensive cost structure underscores the university’s commitment to providing quality education and a supportive living environment, making it an investment in a student’s future. Families and students are encouraged to consider these financial aspects carefully while planning for college.

Notre Dame Scholarships

The University of Notre Dame’s commitment to a need-blind admissions process and supporting students from various financial backgrounds is evident in its extensive scholarship offerings.

For the academic year 2023-2024, Notre Dame is dedicating over $200 million to need-based aid for undergraduates, a testament to its commitment to making education accessible. Notably, 70% of all undergraduates received financial aid, with the median need-based scholarship for incoming first-year students being around $56,000.

All admitted students who have completed the financial aid process are automatically considered for Notre Dame’s need-based scholarship programs. This simplifies the process for students, ensuring that all who need financial assistance are evaluated without the need for additional applications.

Notre Dame Club Scholarships

In collaboration with about 150 Notre Dame clubs globally, the university offers geographically-based scholarships. These club scholarships, like the university scholarships, are awarded based on demonstrated financial need. While the application process is generally straightforward, some clubs may require additional steps such as interviews or essays.

Private Scholarships

Notre Dame students often benefit from scholarships provided by private organizations. These can be sourced through various community organizations, including civic, professional, and religious groups. Resources like The College Board’s Scholarship Search and the FinAid! website offers comprehensive scholarship databases. 

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant, a need-based grant for undergraduate students, varies in amount. For the 2023-2024 academic year, it ranges from $750 to $7,395, offering significant support based on individual eligibility.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)

The SEOG is designed for students with exceptional financial need. Awards range from $100 to $4,000 annually, based on guidelines from the Department of Education and Notre Dame’s Office of Financial Aid.

State-Sponsored Scholarships and Grants

Students from certain states, like Indiana and Vermont, may be eligible for additional financial support through state scholarship programs. Eligibility and application procedures for these scholarships are available directly from state scholarship agencies.

Merit-Based Scholarships

The Notre Dame Scholars’ Program offers merit-based scholarships to prospective first-year students. The Notre Dame Scholars’ Program identifies students who exhibit the potential for transformative leadership and significant global impact, reflecting the values and vision of Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., the university’s esteemed former president.

Notre Dame provides a wide range of financial aid options to support its diverse student body. From need-based to merit-based scholarships, along with federal and state grants, Notre Dame is committed to making its prestigious education accessible to talented students from all economic backgrounds.

Best Majors at Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is renowned for a diverse array of academic programs, with several majors standing out for their popularity and prestige. Among the best majors at Notre Dame, the Mendoza College of Business consistently ranks high nationally, particularly in areas like Finance and Accounting, known for their rigorous curriculum and excellent job placement rates. 

The College of Engineering is another highlight, offering innovative programs in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Computer Science, all emphasizing hands-on learning and cutting-edge research.

The College of Arts and Letters is renowned for its Humanities programs, with majors like Political Science, Psychology, History, and Economics. The Economics program combines a strong theoretical framework with practical analysis of economic policies, preparing students for diverse career paths in economics, finance, and beyond.

The Science department, especially noted for Pre-Med and Biological Sciences, offers extensive research opportunities and a thorough preparation for medical school.

Additionally, unique offerings like the School of Global Affairs provide students with an international perspective on major global challenges. Notre Dame also excels in programs like Theology and Peace Studies, reflecting its Catholic heritage and commitment to social justice.

These academic programs are supported by Notre Dame’s strong liberal arts foundation, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. Beyond the classroom, Notre Dame’s extensive alumni network and internship opportunities significantly enhance the academic experience, preparing graduates for successful careers.

The combination of strong academic programs, a commitment to ethical leadership, and a global perspective makes Notre Dame an exceptional place for higher education.

Student Life at Notre Dame

Student life at Notre Dame offers a mix of community-focused activities, diverse social events, and long-standing traditions. The campus life is designed to foster strong friendships and personal growth, providing students with a supportive and engaging environment. This blend of social and academic experiences enriches the college journey, making it memorable for students at Notre Dame.

Residential Life and Dining on Campus

A key part of this is Notre Dame’s unique residential life, which is at the core of the student experience. The residential system is designed to build inclusive, supportive communities focused on individual and collective growth. First-year students are immersed in this environment from the start, living in one of 32 residence halls on campus. 

Freshmen at Notre Dame are randomly assigned to live with at least one roommate. This setup encourages them to build strong community connections and learn to live well with people from various backgrounds. This living arrangement serves as their introduction to the wider university culture.

At the same time, the campus dining experience is extensive, catering to over 15,000 students, faculty, and staff daily. With nearly 30 dining options, including fine dining, full-service restaurants, quick-service eateries, and cafes, there’s something to suit every palate. The university also operates a comprehensive vending program, ensuring convenient access to snacks and beverages across campus.

Building Lifelong Relationships

In the absence of Greek life, residence halls become the hub of social interaction and relationship-building. These individual communities across the campus collectively create a rich and engaging residential life, a hallmark of Notre Dame’s student experience.

Each residence hall hosts a “signature event” annually, raising funds for various charities and causes. These events are not only key to a lively campus atmosphere but also serve as cherished memories for those who organize and participate in them.

Campus Traditions

Notre Dame is steeped in traditions that mark the rhythm of campus life. Commencement season, for instance, is filled with activities, including Senior Week and The Last Visit at the Grotto, where seniors reflect on their journey and light candles as a symbol of their time at the university.

A recent tradition, Walk the Walk Week, coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day and begins with a candlelight prayer service. It includes a Celebration Luncheon with notable speakers, underscoring Notre Dame’s commitment to inclusion and community reflection.

Home football weekends at Notre Dame are legendary, featuring events like the Friday Pep Rally, the Midnight Drummers Circle, and the Player Walk. These traditions bring the community together, uniting students, faculty, alumni, and fans in a shared spirit of excitement and support for the Fighting Irish.

Student life at Notre Dame offers a vibrant mix of community-focused residential living, varied dining options, and a range of traditions and events that create a strong sense of belonging and involvement. The lively dorm life and energetic football weekends contribute to an experience that goes beyond academics, fostering lasting memories and friendships.

Academics at Notre Dame

At the University of Notre Dame, academic rigor and a supportive learning environment go hand in hand, offering students an enriching educational journey. Notre Dame’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its comprehensive first-year program and diverse range of undergraduate colleges and schools.

Here is a quick overview of academics at Notre Dame:

The First-Year Program

In their first year, students are part of a unique program that provides personalized academic advising, helping them transition smoothly into college life and prepare for their chosen major. After this foundational year, students select their path from six undergraduate colleges: School of Architecture, College of Arts and Letters, Mendoza College of Business, College of Engineering, Keough School of Global Affairs, and College of Science.

The Core Curriculum

Notre Dame’s Core Curriculum is central to its undergraduate education, encompassing 11 distinct ‘Ways of Knowing’. This approach ensures a broad-based education, enabling students to analyze and understand the world through various lenses, including Advanced Language and Culture, Catholicism and the Disciplines, Fine Arts and Literature, History, Integration, Philosophy, Quantitative Reasoning, Science and Technology, Social Science, Theology, and Writing.

Classroom Dynamics

Global Exposure

Emphasizing global education, 75% of students participate in study abroad programs in over 50 international locations. Importantly, need-based financial aid can cover the costs associated with studying abroad during the academic year.

Support Services and Opportunities

• The Flatley Center for Undergraduate Scholarly Engagement provides guidance to students competing for national fellowships for travel, research, and graduate studies.
• Pre-Professional advising is available for students eyeing careers in health professions.
• An impressive 86% of undergraduates engage in research projects or internships, further enhancing their practical experience and readiness for post-graduation opportunities.

Notre Dame’s academic structure is designed to challenge students while providing the necessary support to thrive. The diverse curriculum, combined with small class sizes and extensive support services, ensures that students not only receive a top-tier education but also develop a well-rounded perspective, essential for future success. This nurturing academic environment is a cornerstone of the Notre Dame experience, preparing students to excel in their academic pursuits and beyond.

Extracurriculars at Notre Dame

Students have access to a dynamic range of extracurricular activities that enrich their educational journey at Notre Dame. With more than 500 student groups offering a diverse and active extracurricular environment, students have ample opportunities to explore interests, develop skills, and build a diverse network.

Academics

• Accounting Student Association (CCC)
• Anthropology Club
• Pre-Law Society
• Corporate Finance Club
• Women in Politics

These academic clubs provide platforms for students to deepen their knowledge in specific fields, engage in meaningful discussions, and network with professionals and peers.

Cultural

• Asian American Association of Notre Dame
• Hawai‘i Club – Na Pua Kai ‘Ewalu
• Latino Student Alliance
• Indian Association of Notre Dame
• Black Cultural Arts Council (BCAC)

Cultural organizations offer a space for students to celebrate diversity, share their heritage, and engage in cultural exchange, fostering a more inclusive campus community.

Performing Arts

• Ballroom Dance Club
• Notre Dame Chorale
• Symphony Orchestra
• Student Stand-ups of Notre Dame
• Dance Company of Notre Dame

From music to dance and comedy, performing arts groups provide creative outlets and the chance to develop artistic talents, as well as opportunities to perform and entertain.

Special Interest

• Alexander Hamilton Society at Notre Dame
• Chess Club
• Lego Club
• Mustard Creative Writing Club
• Spoken Word ND

Special interest groups cater to unique hobbies and passions, allowing students to find like-minded individuals and explore their interests in a collaborative environment.

Athletics

Notre Dame is renowned for its robust athletics program, encompassing 26 varsity teams competing at the highest levels of NCAA Division I. While the football program often garners the most attention, the university excels in a range of sports, consistently competing for and winning national championships in various disciplines, including fencing and other sports.

The commitment to athletics extends beyond varsity sports, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in intramural and club sports, fostering a spirit of teamwork and physical fitness.

Engagement in these extracurriculars at Notre Dame is not just about leisure or entertainment; it’s an integral part of personal and professional development. Students gain invaluable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and time management, which are essential for their future careers.

These experiences also contribute to a well-rounded college life, helping students forge lasting friendships, explore new interests, and make their mark in the Notre Dame community.

Student Wellness at Notre Dame

At the University of Notre Dame, student wellness is a top priority, recognizing that maintaining a balance between academics and personal life is key to a successful college experience. The university’s Health and Wellness Unit, rooted in the Holy Cross tradition, provides an array of services and resources dedicated to fostering a healthy student body and promoting overall campus well-being.

Holistic Health Services

The University Health Services (UHS) service operates by appointment only, offering a wide range of medical services, including telehealth through TimelyCare, COVID-19 testing, clinical case management, immunizations, pharmacy services, physical therapy, and more. UHS ensures students can access medical care whenever needed, with 24/7 phone consultations available.

 

Mental Health Support

Acknowledging the stress of a high-pressure academic environment, the University Counseling Center (UCC) provides crucial support through services like crisis intervention, 24/7 phone consultations, workshops, group and individual counseling, psychiatric care, and referrals to off-campus treatment providers. These services are freely available to all degree-seeking and international non-degree-seeking students.

Student Support and Advocacy

The Center for Student Support and Care, including the Care and Wellness Consultants and the Sara Bea Center for Student Accessibility Services, acts as a vital resource for students with complex needs, connecting them with necessary accommodations and campus resources.

• Care and Wellness Consultants: They address referrals concerning students facing challenges, ensuring that no concern is too small and that all students receive the help they need.
• Sara Bea Center for Student Accessibility Services: Ensuring equal access to education, this center provides testing accommodations and auxiliary aids for qualifying students.

Promoting Well-Being

The McDonald Center for Student Well-Being offers tools and activities to support students’ multifaceted well-being, including ABD to PhD coaching, AlcoholEdu, sleep and stress management resources, student involvement opportunities, and substance use risk reduction programs.

Notre Dame’s comprehensive approach to student wellness extends beyond physical health, encompassing emotional, intellectual, and spiritual aspects.

The university’s commitment to supporting students is evident in the breadth and depth of its services, ensuring that every student can find the help they need to thrive both academically and personally. These resources are integral to the Notre Dame experience, enabling students to pursue their educational goals while maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Notre Dame Notable Alumni

The University of Notre Dame has a rich history of producing graduates who have made remarkable contributions across various sectors, reflecting the university’s commitment to comprehensive education and leadership development.

Let’s explore some of Notre Dame’s notable alumni.

Government and Public Service

• Amy Coney Barrett (J.D. 1997): Appointed as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Barrett has played a crucial role in shaping American jurisprudence.
• Joe Donnelly (B.A. Government & International Studies, J.D. Law 1977, 1981): Served as a U.S. Senator from Indiana, contributing significantly to national policy and legislation.
• Emilio Garza (B.A. Government & International Studies 1969, M.A. Government & International Studies 1970): His career as an Appeals Court judge has had a lasting impact on legal interpretations and decisions.

Business and Leadership

• Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. (B.A. Business Management 1968): Transformed the San Francisco 49ers into a leading NFL franchise, setting new standards in sports management.
• Brian Moynihan (J.D. Law 1984): As CEO of Bank of America, Moynihan has led one of the world’s largest financial institutions.
• William K. Warren, Jr. (B.A. Business 1956): His leadership at Warren American Oil Co. has been pivotal in the energy sector.

Arts and Media

• Phil Donahue (B.A. Business, Marketing 1957): Revolutionized the television talk show format, influencing generations of media professionals.
• Nicholas Sparks (B.A. Finance 1988): His novels, including “The Notebook,” have become bestsellers and popular films.
• Hannah Storm (B.A. Government & International Studies 1983): A trailblazer in sports journalism, Storm is known for her work on ESPN SportsCenter.

Science and Innovation

• Nancy Haegel (B.S. Metallurgical Engineering Studies 1981): Leads at the National Renewable Energy Center, focusing on renewable energy research and development.
• James D. Wetherbee (B.S. Aerospace Engineering 1974): A celebrated astronaut who has contributed to space exploration and NASA missions.
• Eric Wieschaus (B.S. Biology 1988): His groundbreaking research in developmental biology earned him a Nobel Prize in Physiology.

Legal and Judiciary

• Ann Williams (J.D. Law 1975): Her tenure as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit, was marked by notable legal rulings and interpretations.
• Robert Thomas (B.A. Government & International Studies 1974): His decisions as a justice on the Illinois Supreme Court have significantly influenced legal outcomes.
• Martha Vázquez (B.A. Government & International Studies 1975, J.D. Law 1979): Her role as Chief U.S. District Judge in New Mexico has been significant in federal jurisprudence.

Athletics and Sports

• Joe Theismann (1971): Known for his career as an NFL quarterback and subsequent work as an analyst.
• Mike Golic (B.A. Business, Management 1985): Made a significant impact in sports broadcasting, particularly with ESPN Radio.
• Rocky Bleier (B.A. Business 1968): His career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and his military service has inspired many.

These alumni, across varied fields, are a testament to Notre Dame’s success in nurturing individuals who excel in their respective domains and make significant societal contributions. From government and business to arts and media, Notre Dame’s rigorous academic environment, coupled with its focus on ethical development and community service, continues to shape leaders who leave an indelible mark on the world.

The competitive Notre Dame acceptance rate highlights its status as a prestigious institution that attracts a diverse and highly talented student body. Prospective applicants should view Notre Dame’s rigorous admissions process as a testament to the quality and value of education it offers.

Applying to Notre Dame is not just about meeting statistics; it’s about demonstrating your potential to contribute to and benefit from a community committed to academic excellence, innovation, and global impact.

AdmissionSight can be a valuable ally for students aiming to navigate how to get into the University of Notre Dame. From refining essays to strategizing extracurricular activities, AdmissionSight’s tailored approach can help students showcase their potential effectively. Our team’s insight into the admissions landscape can provide students with the tools and confidence needed to present a compelling application, increasing their chances of joining the vibrant Notre Dame community.