University of Notre Dame Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at the University of Notre Dame has become increasingly competitive in recent years. This means that only a few are granted the coveted opportunity to join the Fighting Irish family. This exclusivity has contributed to Notre Dame’s reputation as a highly selective institution; however, it is not meant to deter aspiring students but rather to ensure that the university attracts those who are genuinely committed to its rigorous academic standards and shared values. The admissions process seeks to identify individuals who possess not only intellectual prowess but also a strong moral compass, a willingness to learn, and a passion for making a difference.

Getting into Notre Dame is no easy feat, but fear not, fellow dreamers, for this guide will help you to understand the admissions process and increase your chances of securing a spot in the prestigious halls of Notre Dame.

What is the Acceptance Rate at the University of Notre Dame?

The University of Notre Dame is a highly selective private Catholic university located in Notre Dame, Indiana. It has a long and distinguished history of academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top national universities in the United States. As a result, it is also a very competitive school to gain admission to. According to the CollegeBoard, the acceptance rate at the University of Notre Dame for the most recent admissions cycle was 13%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only 13 are accepted. The university’s acceptance rate has been steadily declining in recent years, reflecting the increasing number of applications it receives.

Remember, this statistic reflects the university’s high standards and the quality of its applicants, not your potential. Besides, prestige isn’t just about exclusivity; it’s about the calibre of education and the transformative experiences Notre Dame offers.

Is the University of Notre Dame considered prestigious?

The University of Notre Dame is considered a highly esteemed university, and its high rankings reflect its prestige.

In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Notre Dame was ranked 20th among national universities.
It has consistently ranked among the top 500 universities by the QS World University Rankings. Similarly, the university ranked 304th in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
The university is also ranked highly in other publications, such as Forbes and The Wall Street Journal.
The university is also a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a highly selective consortium of research universities.

Notre Dame is known for its strong academic programmes, particularly in the fields of business, engineering, and the humanities. The university also has a strong Catholic tradition and is committed to providing a well-rounded education for its students.

In addition to its academic reputation, Notre Dame is also known for its beautiful campus, its passionate alumni network, and its strong athletic programmes. The “Fighting Irish” football team is one of the most successful in NCAA history.

University of Notre Dame: SAT vs. ACT

While the University of Notre Dame is test-optional for the 2024 and 2025 application cycles, meaning applicants are not required to submit standardised test scores, the university still considers these scores in admissions decisions for those who choose to provide them.

While standardised test scores are not the only factor considered in the admissions process at the University of Notre Dame, they are still important. The university uses these scores to assess a student's academic preparedness for the rigours of college coursework.

University of Notre Dame: Early Decision vs. Regular Decision

The University of Notre Dame offers a non-binding Restrictive Early Action (REA) application programme, allowing students to apply to Notre Dame and other Early Action programmes. Admitted students have until May 1 to make a final decision about attending Notre Dame. While REA is not the only option for applying to Notre Dame, it’s important to understand how it differs from other application processes and how it aligns with your own goals and circumstances.

REA is not a guaranteed acceptance programme. It’s not merely for students who have Notre Dame as their first choice, nor is it an easier path to admission. Instead, REA is designed for students who are confident in their application and can submit their strongest materials by November 1.

Before deciding whether to apply early, carefully consider your options and ask yourself if you can submit your best application by October of your senior year. If so, REA might be the right choice for you. However, if you believe that an additional semester could be beneficial for improving your grades, strengthening your extracurricular involvement, or enhancing your overall application, then you should consider applying during Regular Decision.

REA vs. Regular Decision

The key difference between REA and Regular Decision lies in the timing of the application and decision-making process. REA allows for an earlier decision by mid-December, providing students with more time to finalise their college plans. Regular Decision, on the other hand, offers more flexibility and time to refine your application before making a final decision on May 1.

How to Get into University of Notre Dame

The acceptance rate at the University of Notre Dame is very low; but it is not impossible to get in. If you are a committed student who is passionate about Notre Dame, you have a good chance of being admitted. Follow these tips to increase your chances of getting into your dream school.

Get a strong GPA: The best way to increase your chances of getting into Notre Dame is to get a strong GPA. The university has a very selective admissions process, and the average student has a GPA of 3.71. Take challenging courses and get good grades.
Get involved in extracurricular activities: Notre Dame is looking for well-rounded students, so get involved in extracurricular activities that you are passionate about.
Apply for an early decision: If you are sure that Notre Dame is your top-choice school, you should apply for an early decision. This will give you a better chance of being admitted.

From the Desk of Yocket

While the acceptance rate paints a picture of selectivity, it’s important to understand the factors that influence the admissions process. Academic prowess plays a significant role, with Notre Dame seeking students who have demonstrated exceptional performance in high school coursework. Standardised test scores, such as the ACT or SAT exam, are also considered, providing a standardised measure of a student’s aptitude.

Beyond academic achievements, Notre Dame values well-rounded individuals who have excelled in extracurricular activities, demonstrated leadership potential, and possess a strong moral compass. The university seeks students who will contribute meaningfully to the campus community, fostering a diverse and enriching environment.