Notre Dame admissions
Notre Dame Acceptance Rate: 12.9%
Everything you need to know about getting into University of Notre Dame — acceptance rate, test scores, GPA benchmarks, and what admissions officers actually value.
A competitive applicant pool where well-rounded profiles stand out. With an acceptance rate of 12.9%, University of Notre Dame rejects the majority of its applicants. For the Class of 2026, this means you need more than strong numbers — your whole application matters.
What it takes to get into Notre Dame
Based on Common Data Set (CDS) reporting, here is how Notre Dame weights each admissions factor:
Key takeaways for applicants
Academics are the foundation. Aim for a GPA at or above 4.06 and SAT scores in the 1450–1550 range. Take the most rigorous courses available to you.
Essays are critical. Notre Dame rates application essays as “Very Important.” Your personal statement and supplemental essays are a key differentiator.
Recommendations matter a lot. Build genuine relationships with teachers who can speak to your intellectual curiosity and character.
Test policy: Notre Dame is test-optional. You may submit SAT/ACT scores if they strengthen your application.
Frequently asked questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of Notre Dame?
The acceptance rate at University of Notre Dame is approximately 12.9% for the Class of 2026. This means roughly 8 students apply for every admitted student.
What SAT score do I need for Notre Dame?
The middle 50% SAT range at University of Notre Dame is 1450–1550. Scoring within or above this range positions you competitively, though admissions are holistic.
What GPA do I need for Notre Dame?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at University of Notre Dame is 4.06. Course rigor matters as much as the GPA number itself — admissions officers want to see the most challenging curriculum available to you.
Is Notre Dame hard to get into?
With a 12.9% acceptance rate, University of Notre Dame is highly selective. Beyond strong numbers, you need compelling essays, meaningful extracurriculars, and strong recommendations.
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