Highly Selective9% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, Indiana Private University • #18 National • Founded 1842

Notre Dame Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

9%
Acceptance Rate
3.94
Average GPA
1510
Average SAT
34
Average ACT
35,401
Total Applicants
2,050
Class Size
10:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

Notre Dame SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1470–1540
Average1510
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range33–35
Average34
2036

About University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is a prestigious Catholic research university in Notre Dame, Indiana. With a 9% acceptance rate, Notre Dame combines rigorous academics with a tight-knit campus culture, iconic athletics, and a powerful alumni network spanning business, law, and public service.

Top Programs

FinancePolitical ScienceComputer ScienceEconomicsEngineering

What Makes Notre Dame Unique

  • One of the most loyal alumni networks in the country
  • Strong Catholic identity with a vibrant campus community
  • Top-ranked Mendoza College of Business for undergraduates
  • 92% freshman retention rate — one of the highest nationally
  • Restrictive Early Action with demonstrated interest considered

Notre Dame Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$62,693/yr
Total Cost$83,044/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$82,000/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid50%
Avg Aid Package$58,000+
School TypePrivate

Notre Dame Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
January 1
Early Action
November 1
EA Acceptance Rate: ~15%

How to Get Into Notre Dame: Admission Tips

1

Notre Dame uses Restrictive Early Action — cannot apply ED/EA to other private universities

2

Demonstrated interest matters — visit campus, attend info sessions, engage with regional reps

3

Community involvement and service are highly valued in the application

4

The supplemental essay should reflect genuine interest in Notre Dame's mission and community

5

Strong character and leadership are weighted alongside academics

The Brutal Truth About Notre Dame Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 9% acceptance rate, Notre Dame rejected over 32,215 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Notre Dame, having a 3.94 GPA and 1510 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.

The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Notre Dame doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.

Bottom line: Apply if Notre Dame genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 9%-acceptance-rate basket.

Notre Dame Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at University of Notre Dame?

University of Notre Dame has an acceptance rate of 9% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 35,401 applicants, approximately 2,050 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into Notre Dame?

The average GPA of admitted students at University of Notre Dame is 3.94. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.79, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for Notre Dame?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Notre Dame students is 1470–1540. The average SAT score is 1510. For ACT, the range is 33–35 with an average of 34.

Is Notre Dame hard to get into?

Yes, University of Notre Dame is highly selective with an acceptance rate of just 9%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.

How much does Notre Dame cost?

Tuition at University of Notre Dame is $62,693 per year, with total cost of attendance at $83,044. However, 50% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $58,000+.

What are my chances of getting into Notre Dame?

Your chances of getting into University of Notre Dame depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 9% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.

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What Are Your Chances at Notre Dame?

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