University of Notre Dame: Programs, Admissions, Campus Life

Looking for an exceptional education at one of America’s most prestigious institutions? The University of Notre Dame offers an unmatched combination of academic excellence, rich tradition, and vibrant community. Founded in 1842, the University of Notre Dame has a stunning campus, world-class faculty, and a commitment to developing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

With selective Notre Dame admissions for students who show intellectual curiosity and character, the University of Notre Dame produces leaders who make a difference in the world. Ready to see if you fit in the Fighting Irish family? 

Let’s explore what makes Notre Dame such an amazing place to learn and grow.

About the University of Notre Dame

Located on 1,250 beautiful acres in northern Indiana, Notre Dame is a popular name when we Google top universities in the USA. With 75 undergraduate majors across 8 colleges and schools, you’ll find the perfect fit for your passion. The numbers tell part of the story – 8,923 undergrads and 4,206 graduate students with 1,526 faculty – but it’s the relationships you form here that make the Notre Dame experience.

The University of Notre Dame ranking is consistently improving. Currently, it is ranked 12th in the country by College Consensus.  They’re committed to excellence – not just in academics, but in how they treat their own community – and are recognized as a Top 10 workplace by the Chronicle of Higher Education.

With world-class research initiatives, a global network of over 150,000 alumni, and a commitment to developing the “whole person,” Notre Dame continues to define what excellence means in American higher education. The Fighting Irish spirit is about more than just athletics – it’s about fighting for what matters: knowledge, community, faith, and making a positive impact in the world.

University of Notre Dame Courses

The University of Notre Dame provides a comprehensive range of academic programs across its colleges and schools:

Undergraduate Courses at Notre Dame

The undergraduate experience at the University of Notre Dame is built around a liberal arts core that gives students breadth of knowledge and depth in their major. With over 75 majors across the colleges, students can explore many interests.

The university’s First Year of Studies program helps new students navigate their initial transition to college and explore academic interests before declaring a major.

Graduate Courses at Notre Dame

For those pursuing advanced education, the University of Notre Dame offers approximately 32 master’s and 25 doctoral degree programs across its Graduate School and professional schools.

Being one of the best schools for mechanical engineering, the graduate programs at Notre Dame are particularly renowned for their strengths in fields like business analytics, theology, philosophy, political science, and various engineering disciplines.

University of Notre Dame Admission Requirements

Getting into the University of Notre Dame is highly competitive, with the university maintaining a selective Notre Dame acceptance rate that typically ranges between 12% to 17%. Here’s what prospective students need to know:

1. Undergraduate Admission Requirements

1. Application Platforms: Apply through the Common Application or Coalition Application.
2. Application Fee: USD75 (fee waivers available for eligible students).
3. Academic Requirements:
   
   • Average GPA: 4.0 (weighted)
   • Rigorous coursework including 4 years of English, 4 years of Mathematics, 3-4 years each of Science, Social Sciences, and Foreign Language.
4. Standardized Tests: Test-optional through 2025-26. For those who submit, the middle 50% ranges are typically:
   
   • SAT: 1400-1550
   • ACT: 32-35
5. Recommendation Letters: One teacher recommendation from a core academic subject.
6. Essays: Common Application essay plus Notre Dame-specific supplemental essays.
7. Extracurricular Activities: The Notre Dame admissions committee values depth of involvement rather than breadth.

2. Graduate School Admission Requirements

Requirements vary by program, but generally include:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
2. Application: Submit through the Notre Dame Graduate School portal.
3. Test Scores: Requirements vary by program (GRE, GMAT, or LSAT).
4. English Proficiency: International students must demonstrate proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 90) or IELTS (minimum 7.0).
5. Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 letters.
6. Statement of Purpose: Outlining academic interests, career goals, and fit with Notre Dame.

You need to apply F-1 visa or a J-1 visa to attend Notre Dame University. So, prepare the following documents and submit them with the required fees before the interview.

• Valid passport 
• A printed copy of DS-160
• SEVIS Fee Receipt
• Interview appointment letter 
• Form I-20 
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Bank statement for at least three years
• Pay/salary slips 
• Original mark sheets/ certificates
• Valid test scores 
• Financial Documents

How to Apply to the University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame admission process is a little different for UG and PG admission. You have three application portals: 

• Common Application at commonapp.org.
• Apply Coalition on Scoir at app.scoir.com/app/signup/2800092.
• Questbridge Application at questbridge.org 

Below is the application process for undergraduate admission:

• Step 1: Start by applying through the right portal. 
• Step 2: Log in and start your application
  Step 3: Check the deadlines for your program. For undergrads, Restrictive Early Action is November 1 and Regular Decision is January 3.
• Step 4: Upload all required academic transcripts and supporting documents.
• Step 5:International students whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, DET, or PTE Academic scores (unless waived).
• Step 6: Submit any program-specific test requirements. Note: Notre Dame is test-optional for undergrads through at least 2025-26.
• Step 7: Upload other documents like CV, Resume, Writing Sample, etc.
• Step 8: Pay the non-refundable Notre Dame application fee

Before applying, remember that finding comfortable, convenient housing will be a big part of your university experience. Amber Student specialises in helping students find verified accommodation near the University of Notre Dame and other top universities worldwide. 

University of Notre Dame Deadlines

Knowing the application timelines as a student can make a big difference in your chances of Notre Dame acceptance rate. Be organised and plan so you can apply on time. Here are the recent application deadlines for the 2025-26 calendar year. 

1. Undergraduate Deadlines

Stay informed about key undergraduate application deadlines

2. Graduate Deadlines

Graduate program deadlines vary by department and degree. Most fall admission deadlines range from December to January for programs offering financial aid consideration. You can also check out the intake process in the USA to stay informed about deadlines. Here are the popular graduate courses deadlines.

University of Notre Dame Tuition Fees

Costs are the primary factor you should consider before applying to the University of Notre Dame. Here, you have calculated both direct costs, like tuition and housing, but also the extras like textbooks, personal expenses, and travel. So, as a student, you must do proper financial planning before takeoff. 

Here is a detailed breakdown of the cost of studying. 

Financial Aid and Scholarships by Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is committed to making education affordable through generous scholarships and financial aid for both undergraduate and graduate students. There are various scholarships available to support meritorious students. One such incredible opportunity for students looking to ease their financial burden is amberscholar, which provides $12,000 in scholarships for those pursuing higher education at their dream university.

Undergraduate Scholarships

Explore a range of undergraduate scholarships to help fund your college education and reduce financial burdens.

• University-Based Scholarships: All students who apply are automatically considered for all University need-based scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on need and merit.
• Notre Dame Club Scholarships: About 150 Notre Dame clubs offer scholarships to students from their respective regions. 
• Private Scholarships: Many private organizations offer scholarships to Notre Dame students. Students are encouraged to search for opportunities through the College Board’s Scholarship Search, FinAid, and BestColleges.
• Federal Aid Programs: Eligible students may receive assistance through programs like the Federal Pell Grant (ranging from USD 740 to USD 7,395 for 2025-2026) and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), ranging from USD 100 to USD 4,000 annually.

For families with incomes under USD 65,000, Notre Dame covers most of the cost of attendance, with an estimated annual family contribution under USD 3,000.

Graduate Scholarships

While the Office of Financial Aid primarily facilitates loans for graduate and professional students, there are many funding options available:

• Scholarships and Fellowships: Academic fellowships, assistantships and Notre Dame scholarships are offered by admitting departments, usually at the time of admission.
• Private Scholarships: Graduate students can find top scholarship opportunities through civic, professional, religious, and other community organizations, as well as through the College Board’s Scholarship Search, FinAid, and BestColleges.
• Assistantships and Campus Employment: Graduate students are employed on assistantship agreements arranged with their academic departments. Additional part-time employment opportunities can be found on the JOBboard at studentjobs.nd.edu.
• Federal Direct Loan Programs: 
  
  • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan: This non-need-based loan requires the student to repay with interest.
  • Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan: This is an additional borrowing option beyond the Unsubsidized Loan, based on credit.
• Private Loans: After federal aid is exhausted, students may consider private loans as additional funding. Students can borrow the full cost of education (minus other aid) through these non-need-based loan options.
• Monthly Payment Plan: The Office of Student Accounts partners with Nelnet to offer a monthly payment plan for tuition.

Notre Dame Campus Life

Notre Dame campus life revolves around its unique residential communities where approximately 80% of undergrads live in 32 residence halls, so you’ll feel part of something special and tradition. Each hall is its own little community with its customs and events that will create lifelong friendships.

Beyond the books, students are involved in over 500+ student clubs and organizations, from service and faith to cultural and academic interests. The Fighting Irish spirit comes alive during athletic events, and football weekends become campus-wide parties.

With 28 dining locations and 5 recreation centers to hang out at, you'll have a well-rounded experience at one of the top private universities in the USA. Notre Dame’s Catholic identity infuses the campus with opportunities for spiritual growth, service, and reflection. Students say campus life is the perfect balance of tough academics, meaningful traditions, and a supportive community that feels like home away from home.

With options ranging from shared apartments to private studios and personal support throughout the booking process, amber takes the stress out of student housing. Visit the website to explore options that will complement your Notre Dame experience!