Chats » Regular Action Admitted Student Chat, 2009
Chris - Littleton, CO
How difficult is it to gain acceptance into the dual degree Engineering/MBA program? Does earning two degrees as an undergraduate make it difficult to have a social life?
ND Admissions
Chris, I actually had 2 of my classmates in the Engineering/MBA program. It’s a very selective program, taking less than 5 students a year. I can tell you that my 2 buddies were able to enjoy life just fine while participating in the program.
Rachel - Harrington Park, NJ
If I receive scholarships from outside of Notre Dame will this effect the one I was given by the university itself?
ND Admissions
Many Notre Dame students receive scholarships from private organizations. The receipt of any
scholarship, grant, or loan not listed on the original Award Letter must be reported to the Office of Financial Aid as soon as the student is notified of the award. The receipt of funds not listed on the Award Letter may result in an adjustment to the financial aid award. If appropriate, a revised Award Letter will be sent to the student noting receipt of the additional award and the adjustment to the student’s financial aid award.
As a guide, if a student receives aid beyond that which is listed on the Award Letter, the financial aid award may be adjusted by reducing the Federal Perkins Loan (if applicable), Federal Work-Study, Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan, University Scholarship.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Does ND cover travel/ transportaion expenses in case of an emergency?
ND Admissions
Hi Chiamaka,
The rector of each hall does have a discretionary fund that can be for cases where the travel expenses would present a financial burden to the family.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Which Dining Hall serves the best food?
ND Admissions
Every student on campus will give you a different answer to this question!! The answer mostly depends which dining hall you live closer to. That being said, I personally like North Dining Hall better. I like the more widespread layout of NDH and the make-your-own pizza station! They also have a pasta stir fry station that SDH does not have. Additionally I think the salad bar is superior in NDH. However, South Dining Hall is definitely the prettier of the two dining halls. People who eat there believe that the food is fresher and some like that all the food stations are within one room as opposed to separate.
Luckily, students are allowed to eat at both and I suggest making an effort to split your time between the two!
Mayra - Bakersfield, CA
Since I am from out of state my tuition is currently for an out of state student, after my first year at ND will I be able to receive instate tuition?
ND Admissions
Hi Mayra,
Since Notre Dame is a private (and not public) institution, there is no distinction in the tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. All full time undergraduate students are charged the same tuition rates.
Peter - Little Rock, AR
How serious are the intramural football games taken, in regards to time spent practicing?
ND Admissions
You’re playing for your dorm, so this is a serious issue! The teams hold tryouts and then practice multiple times a week. It’s one of two, full-pad, full contact intramural football programs in the nation!
John - Fairmont, WV
I was just wondering about the note-taking process in classrooms. Do most people still take notes on paper or computers or are notes mostly emailed to you or posted on a website?
ND Admissions
It all depends on what class it is. For things like a literature class, it’s easy to take notes on a computer, and many people do. Students are generally expected to take their own notes. However, some professors post their Power-Point presentations online. However, some classes are simply not conducive to electronic note-taking, like math, engineering, or economics, which utilize figures that are not easy to put into electronic form. It is HIGHLY irregular for a professor to forbid students from taking notes on their computers, though, so if you want to take notes on your computer, you may.
Ben - Gilbert, AZ
How many students are in Biochemistry major? Then what classes am I looking for during my freshmen year? Also, after graduating, what do biochemistry major students do?
ND Admissions
For specific questions about statistics in the Department of Biochemistry, please consult their website or call their office at 574.631.7058.
Regardless of intended major, all freshmen enter the First Year of Studies. They take general liberal arts courses with science and math courses at the level appropriate for their intended major.
Students majoring in biochemistry often apply to medical, law, or graduate school and eventually enter a wide range of careers, from law, to medicine, to education, to government positions, etc.
Adan - Bosque Farms, NM
My parents will have 3 children starting college this year. Other universities have said that they only take the first 2 children into account when determing financial aid. Does ND reduce the expected family contribution based on the total number of siblings enrolled in college?
ND Admissions
Hi Adan,
There is not a limit to the number of children enrolled in undergraduate studies considered in financial aid calculations.
Stephanie - New Rochelle, NY
I am undecided about my future plans but was thinking about law school. How does Notre Dame rank as far as acceptances into good law schools? I am also interested in whether each student will have someone to advise them on courses, major, career, etc. Finally, I am deciding between Notre Dame and an ivy league school. Is there anything helpful you can suggest in making this decision?
ND Admissions
Stephanie – Notre Dame ranks very well when it comes to law school placement. My classmates ended up at Harvard, Yale, Notre Dame, Columbia, Stanford, Chicago among many others. Other universities realize the quality of education here and it definitely helps you in the process. I had to choose between Notre Dame and an Ivy for undergrad and did not regret being one of the Fighting Irish in any way. I ended up going to an Ivy for graduate school and it only reinforced my love for Notre Dame.
Anthony - Las Vegas, NV
How much does it cost for a student to play the golf courses at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Anthony,
There’s a basic 9 hole course right on campus and greens fees are about $7 for students . The Warren Golf Course just off campus is a championship level 18 hole course and students can play for about $20 .
Teresa - Haddon Township, NJ
I heard that ND recently invited President Obama to speak on campus. How often do such prominent public figures typically visit campus and what kind of opportunity do students have to hear (or meet, depending on the figure) these individuals?
ND Admissions
Hi Teresa- Notre Dame’s prominence allows us to host noteworthy figures in various areas- academics, politicians, theologians, musicians and other artists on a regular basis- even weekly! Check our University calendar for events past and future!
Anthony - Las Vegas, NV
How much are student tickets to football games?
ND Admissions
The price of student football tickets is half-priced of regular tickets. Students purchase a season ticket which will cost $238, but this varies from year to year.
Shay - ,
How many pingpong tables do yall have on campus
ND Admissions
We have many. There’s one in almost every dorm. There are also a good number of them in the student athletic centers.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
In terms of scholarship and financial aid given by ND, how drastically does the aid change over the course of attendance? Does it genetally stay the same, in terms of percentage given?
ND Admissions
Hi Chiamaka! You should expect your financial aid to stay generally the same unless your family’s financial situation changes drastically. We are committed to meeting 100% of every student’s financial need.
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
Do you have a table tennis club? If not, can students start their own clubs?
ND Admissions
We do and we even have an interhall team! Please refer here for more information on starting your own club.
Rosemary - Aliso Viejo, CA
Hi! I'm really sorry, but I have a few questions. 1) My dad and I will be visiting on the 20th and 21st and we were wondering if there was any possible way of meeting the track/cross country coaches (boys and girls because my brother is interested too) or getting their contact information. 2) Is it possible to buy individual tickets for individual football games instead of buying all of them at once? 3) Can I buy football tickets for a friend that goes to a different college? Thank you!
ND Admissions
Hi Rosemary,
1) You can find the information for the track coaches here -feel free to get in touch with him!
2) Students cannot buy tickets on a game-by-game basis; you purchase the entire season in one booklet and can’t really separate them.
3) You might be able to find tickets from friends or other people on campus, but the games are always sold out! Students-or anyone, for that matter-don’t really have the ability to buy single-game tickets for friends (but you should be able to find something somewhere)
Jessica - Lockport, NY
Hey, I'm having a difficult time weighing the advantages and disadvantages of attending ND (mostly financial), I was wondering how some current students chose to attend ND? What was their deciding factor if they were on the edge?
ND Admissions
I think it is very different for each student. One of the major reasons that I attend was just the atmosphere and energy on campus. I came and visited on a football weekend my senior year and it was so exciting to see so many people in love with Notre Dame! I hadn’t experienced that sort of intense excitement for one school at any other college I visited.
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
You replied that 9 credits would transfer.... Do you mean 9 classes? (Nine credits would only equal three college classes)
ND Admissions
Marcos, nine credits (three courses) is the limit for first year students who took courses on college campuses while in high school. Usually social science courses are the most likely to be accepted.
Anthony - Long Grove, IL
Where can you find the best selection of ND apparel at the best price?
ND Admissions
Hi Anthony,
Good question. You’ll find a good selection of merchandise in the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore or the Varsity Shop in the Joyce Center on campus, although the prices may not be the cheapest. I can think of at least three stores in South Bend and Mishawaka that sell ND apparel and their prices may be more competitive.
Jessica - Lockport, NY
Is it possible to take gyms classes all four years? And also, do you get to chose what you want to do in gym or does the teacher decide?
ND Admissions
Classes that are categorized as “gym classes” are only available freshman. However there are fitness classes available to all students and various clubs are available to participate in sports. As a freshman, you get to choose which gym class you take, and you will register for that in the Fall, according to instructions that will be e-mailed to you. Here is a link to what is available to all students:
http://recsports.nd.edu/
John - Stony Brook, NY
Does Notre Dame Scholar award include some kind of a scholarship? Are there any advantages to be named a Notre Dame Scholar?
ND Admissions
Hi John,
Being named a Notre Dame Scholar is a great honor! While there is not a specific scholarship fund for Notre Dame Scholars, Scholars who receive a financial aid package do typically tend to see less loan and more scholarship in their packages.
Stefan - Stuart, FL
I am late submitting my financial aid forms. Will I still have an opportunity to receive any help with my tuition?
ND Admissions
Hi Stefan,
Please see the prior postings on the financial aid application process and availability for late applicants.
Michelle - Fairfax, VA
Is what I received in the financial aid packet final?
ND Admissions
Dear Michelle,
We posted a response earlier in the chat about reconsideration for financial aid. Our goal is to offer the best financial aid package possible based upon the information we were given by your family. If there are circumstances you do not believe we considered or family circumstances have changed, we suggest you submit a written appeal with documentation and we will re-evaluate your eligibility.
Charlie - Omaha, NE
How prevalent are the ROTC programs in Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Approximately 3-4% of the incoming class will be participating in ROTC.
Meredith Angell - Mason City, IA
Does Notre Dame have a Best Buddies program? Where can I find a list of activities available?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame’s Best Buddies program is very active on campus, and it is a very popular service opportunity for students here. Here is a link to the list of student activities:
http://sao.nd.edu/studentgroups/listing/index.shtml
Christine - Seoul,
How is the medical program in Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
The overall admit rate for students applying to medical school is nearly 80%. For students majoring in biology, chemistry, and biochemistry, the acceptance rate approaches 90%. The program is very rigorous, but students are well-prepared for the challenges of medical school.
Department of Preprofessional Studies
Steven - Buffalo, NY
Earlier you said that about 6% of the students are Notre Dame Scholars, is that percent from the 14,353 applicants or the 3,850 accepted students?
ND Admissions
Steven- that is 6% of the applicants…
Anthony - Las Vegas, NV
I have always dreamed of attending Notre Dame, but I have recieved significant scholarships from other schools, too. Does the novelty of finally attending Notre Dame ever wear off?
ND Admissions
NO! And I’m not saying that because I work for in Admissions, but I work for Admissions because I feel that way. As hard as it may be to believe, the novelty of Notre Dame NEVER wears off.
It’s hard to grasp when you’re in your shoes, but this is really something that will impact you for the rest of your life. You’ll walk away from Notre Dame with a great education, but also life-long friends and some amazing experiences. As cheesy as it sounds, I still walk around campus and look around and just pinch myself sometimes because I’m always awed and amazed by this campus and this place.
I understand your situation-I was offered some very nice financial aid packages from other schools. But, in the end, the loans I took were well worth the overall experience. Even as I pay my loans today, I would go back and do everything again if given the chance!
Patrick - Decatur, Ga
What is Notre Dame's alcohol policy and how strictly is it enforced? Do ND students know how to party?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame abides by the state law, which states that 21 is the legal drinking age. The alcohol policy is strictly enforced. And ND students do know how to party.
Mark - Phoenix, AR
For any current student - how did YOU decide that Notre Dame was the right choice, considering finances and location?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame has a needs-blind admissions process, so every student will be able to attend if they are accepted. I’m from Montana, so location was not a particularly big deal. There is a fair representation from Arizona, so students do in fact live if they decide to come here! The big play for Notre Dame, in my view, is that it offers the best overall college experience in America. It has top-notch academics, but also has a vibrant student life, and things like school spirit are absolutely amazing. This is what I knew about the school, and it tipped the scales for me.
Brittani - Effingham, IL
I read somewhere that earning a dual degree usually takes five years. Is it at all possible to do it in four years? If not, can you still double major in two different schools without getting a dual degree?
ND Admissions
Brittani, dual degrees usually require five years at ND. Two majors, even from two separate schools or colleges, can usually be done in four years.
Jared - Niles, MI
How many organized events does ND put on in the course of a year? For example, dances, rallies, etc.
ND Admissions
Notre Dame puts on several organized events each weekend! There are pep rallies the night before each football game in the fall. Each dorm has around 3 dances throughout the course of the year (and there will be 28 dorms next year!). There are always theatrical productions being put on and lots of different comedy and musical acts attending campus. If you are worried about finding things to do on campus- Don’t Worry!!! There are always events happening, you just have to look around at all the posters on campus!
Jared - Niles, MI
I heard that ND students have free access to St. Mary's and/or Holy Cross facilities (i.e. rec centers). Is this true?
ND Admissions
Hi Jared,
Yes, I believe you can access those facilities for free with your Notre Dame student ID.
Teresa - Haddon Township, NJ
Is there significant student support (in terms of fan spirit and attendance) for sports other than football?
ND Admissions
Hi Teresa,
There is still good student support for sports other than football (though, of course, football is the only team that plays in an 80,000+ seat stadium!). But other than football and men’s basketball, students are able to get into games for free, and usually there is a decent turnout for all sports. In the end, we’re all Fighting Irish!
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Do celebrities hold concerts? If so, which one have come ny recently?
ND Admissions
I have seen several concerts at Notre Dame and the Student Union Board does a great job of getting some big names in. I have seen Third Eye Blind, Common, Ben Folds, Rooney, Ben Kweller, and Citizen Cope. Those are just the bands I have gone to see (and I have not seen nearly all of them!). Sarah Bareilles and Gym Class Hereos are both playing on campus this week as a matter of fact! You can check out the website of our on campus bar/ club- Legends, where a lot of the performers play. The website is www.legendsofnotredame.org !
Meredith Angell - Mason City, IA
Are there different gym classes freshman can take or is it the same required course for everyone?
ND Admissions
There are many different options for gym classes available. Students sign up for their choice of class after they have been registered for their classes in the Fall. There are classes in dance, ice-skating, golf, frisbee, fitness, and even things like a triathlon class. These vary from year to year, however. There IS a section of a health-type class that is compulsory, and every freshman must take.
Allison - South Bend, IN
Is it necessary to take the Advanced Placement exams that my high school has been offering, and what requirements would those exams be for?
ND Admissions
Allison, it is not necessary to take AP exams. It is generally helpful to take some in subjects which are strengths for you. The full chart of AP scores and credits is found on page 41 of the academic Bulletin of Information.
Julia - Bakersfield, CA
How much of a time commitment is the marching band? Would it be possible to join my sophmore year? If I attend band camp am I obligated to join the band?
ND Admissions
Marching Band rehearsals are held daily, Monday through Thursday, during the Fall semester. Rehearsals are held in the late afternoon/early evening following classes, and last approximately 90 minutes. Game Day Saturdays are very busy but rewarding days, with a morning rehearsal and the Concert On The Steps prior to game time. Most students find that the time commitment causes them or organize their time more efficiently. And, students from every area of study on campus are able to find time to participate. Yes, you join in your sophomore year. And, I do not believe you are obligated to join the band if you attend band camp. Please refer to the band FAQ for more information.
Ross - Greenwood, IN
Is it still possible to receive financial aid if my family did not complete FAFSA by the priority deadline?
ND Admissions
Dear Ross,
I would encourage you to complete the FAFSA and CSS/PROFILE as soon as possible so we may review your application. It is still possible to receive consideration for assistance.
Chris - Littleton, CO
How difficult is it to gain acceptance into the dual degree Engineering/MBA program? Does earning two degrees as an undergraduate make it difficult to have a social life?
ND Admissions
Chris, I actually had 2 of my classmates in the Engineering/MBA program. It’s a very selective program, taking less than 5 students a year. I can tell you that my 2 buddies were able to enjoy life just fine while participating in the program.
Rachel - Harrington Park, NJ
If I receive scholarships from outside of Notre Dame will this effect the one I was given by the university itself?
ND Admissions
Many Notre Dame students receive scholarships from private organizations. The receipt of any scholarship, grant, or loan not listed on the original Award Letter must be reported to the Office of Financial Aid as soon as the student is notified of the award. The receipt of funds not listed on the Award Letter may result in an adjustment to the financial aid award. If appropriate, a revised Award Letter will be sent to the student noting receipt of the additional award and the adjustment to the student’s financial aid award.
As a guide, if a student receives aid beyond that which is listed on the Award Letter, the financial aid award may be adjusted by reducing the Federal Perkins Loan (if applicable), Federal Work-Study, Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan, University Scholarship.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Does ND cover travel/ transportaion expenses in case of an emergency?
ND Admissions
Hi Chiamaka,
The rector of each hall does have a discretionary fund that can be for cases where the travel expenses would present a financial burden to the family.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Which Dining Hall serves the best food?
ND Admissions
Every student on campus will give you a different answer to this question!! The answer mostly depends which dining hall you live closer to. That being said, I personally like North Dining Hall better. I like the more widespread layout of NDH and the make-your-own pizza station! They also have a pasta stir fry station that SDH does not have. Additionally I think the salad bar is superior in NDH. However, South Dining Hall is definitely the prettier of the two dining halls. People who eat there believe that the food is fresher and some like that all the food stations are within one room as opposed to separate.
Luckily, students are allowed to eat at both and I suggest making an effort to split your time between the two!
Mayra - Bakersfield, CA
Since I am from out of state my tuition is currently for an out of state student, after my first year at ND will I be able to receive instate tuition?
ND Admissions
Hi Mayra,
Since Notre Dame is a private (and not public) institution, there is no distinction in the tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. All full time undergraduate students are charged the same tuition rates.
Peter - Little Rock, AR
How serious are the intramural football games taken, in regards to time spent practicing?
ND Admissions
You’re playing for your dorm, so this is a serious issue! The teams hold tryouts and then practice multiple times a week. It’s one of two, full-pad, full contact intramural football programs in the nation!
John - Fairmont, WV
I was just wondering about the note-taking process in classrooms. Do most people still take notes on paper or computers or are notes mostly emailed to you or posted on a website?
ND Admissions
It all depends on what class it is. For things like a literature class, it’s easy to take notes on a computer, and many people do. Students are generally expected to take their own notes. However, some professors post their Power-Point presentations online. However, some classes are simply not conducive to electronic note-taking, like math, engineering, or economics, which utilize figures that are not easy to put into electronic form. It is HIGHLY irregular for a professor to forbid students from taking notes on their computers, though, so if you want to take notes on your computer, you may.
Ben - Gilbert, AZ
How many students are in Biochemistry major? Then what classes am I looking for during my freshmen year? Also, after graduating, what do biochemistry major students do?
ND Admissions
For specific questions about statistics in the Department of Biochemistry, please consult their website or call their office at 574.631.7058.
Regardless of intended major, all freshmen enter the First Year of Studies. They take general liberal arts courses with science and math courses at the level appropriate for their intended major.
Students majoring in biochemistry often apply to medical, law, or graduate school and eventually enter a wide range of careers, from law, to medicine, to education, to government positions, etc.
Adan - Bosque Farms, NM
My parents will have 3 children starting college this year. Other universities have said that they only take the first 2 children into account when determing financial aid. Does ND reduce the expected family contribution based on the total number of siblings enrolled in college?
ND Admissions
Hi Adan,
There is not a limit to the number of children enrolled in undergraduate studies considered in financial aid calculations.
Stephanie - New Rochelle, NY
I am undecided about my future plans but was thinking about law school. How does Notre Dame rank as far as acceptances into good law schools? I am also interested in whether each student will have someone to advise them on courses, major, career, etc. Finally, I am deciding between Notre Dame and an ivy league school. Is there anything helpful you can suggest in making this decision?
ND Admissions
Stephanie – Notre Dame ranks very well when it comes to law school placement. My classmates ended up at Harvard, Yale, Notre Dame, Columbia, Stanford, Chicago among many others. Other universities realize the quality of education here and it definitely helps you in the process. I had to choose between Notre Dame and an Ivy for undergrad and did not regret being one of the Fighting Irish in any way. I ended up going to an Ivy for graduate school and it only reinforced my love for Notre Dame.
Anthony - Las Vegas, NV
How much does it cost for a student to play the golf courses at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Anthony,
There’s a basic 9 hole course right on campus and greens fees are about $7 for students . The Warren Golf Course just off campus is a championship level 18 hole course and students can play for about $20 .
Teresa - Haddon Township, NJ
I heard that ND recently invited President Obama to speak on campus. How often do such prominent public figures typically visit campus and what kind of opportunity do students have to hear (or meet, depending on the figure) these individuals?
ND Admissions
Hi Teresa- Notre Dame’s prominence allows us to host noteworthy figures in various areas- academics, politicians, theologians, musicians and other artists on a regular basis- even weekly! Check our University calendar for events past and future!
Anthony - Las Vegas, NV
How much are student tickets to football games?
ND Admissions
The price of student football tickets is half-priced of regular tickets. Students purchase a season ticket which will cost $238, but this varies from year to year.
Shay - ,
How many pingpong tables do yall have on campus
ND Admissions
We have many. There’s one in almost every dorm. There are also a good number of them in the student athletic centers.
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
In terms of scholarship and financial aid given by ND, how drastically does the aid change over the course of attendance? Does it genetally stay the same, in terms of percentage given?
ND Admissions
Hi Chiamaka! You should expect your financial aid to stay generally the same unless your family’s financial situation changes drastically. We are committed to meeting 100% of every student’s financial need.
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
Do you have a table tennis club? If not, can students start their own clubs?
ND Admissions
We do and we even have an interhall team! Please refer here for more information on starting your own club.
Rosemary - Aliso Viejo, CA
Hi! I'm really sorry, but I have a few questions. 1) My dad and I will be visiting on the 20th and 21st and we were wondering if there was any possible way of meeting the track/cross country coaches (boys and girls because my brother is interested too) or getting their contact information. 2) Is it possible to buy individual tickets for individual football games instead of buying all of them at once? 3) Can I buy football tickets for a friend that goes to a different college? Thank you!
ND Admissions
Hi Rosemary,
1) You can find the information for the track coaches here -feel free to get in touch with him!
2) Students cannot buy tickets on a game-by-game basis; you purchase the entire season in one booklet and can’t really separate them.
3) You might be able to find tickets from friends or other people on campus, but the games are always sold out! Students-or anyone, for that matter-don’t really have the ability to buy single-game tickets for friends (but you should be able to find something somewhere)
Jessica - Lockport, NY
Hey, I'm having a difficult time weighing the advantages and disadvantages of attending ND (mostly financial), I was wondering how some current students chose to attend ND? What was their deciding factor if they were on the edge?
ND Admissions
I think it is very different for each student. One of the major reasons that I attend was just the atmosphere and energy on campus. I came and visited on a football weekend my senior year and it was so exciting to see so many people in love with Notre Dame! I hadn’t experienced that sort of intense excitement for one school at any other college I visited.
Marcos - Seminole, Fl
You replied that 9 credits would transfer.... Do you mean 9 classes? (Nine credits would only equal three college classes)
ND Admissions
Marcos, nine credits (three courses) is the limit for first year students who took courses on college campuses while in high school. Usually social science courses are the most likely to be accepted.
Anthony - Long Grove, IL
Where can you find the best selection of ND apparel at the best price?
ND Admissions
Hi Anthony,
Good question. You’ll find a good selection of merchandise in the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore or the Varsity Shop in the Joyce Center on campus, although the prices may not be the cheapest. I can think of at least three stores in South Bend and Mishawaka that sell ND apparel and their prices may be more competitive.
Jessica - Lockport, NY
Is it possible to take gyms classes all four years? And also, do you get to chose what you want to do in gym or does the teacher decide?
ND Admissions
Classes that are categorized as “gym classes” are only available freshman. However there are fitness classes available to all students and various clubs are available to participate in sports. As a freshman, you get to choose which gym class you take, and you will register for that in the Fall, according to instructions that will be e-mailed to you. Here is a link to what is available to all students:
http://recsports.nd.edu/
John - Stony Brook, NY
Does Notre Dame Scholar award include some kind of a scholarship? Are there any advantages to be named a Notre Dame Scholar?
ND Admissions
Hi John,
Being named a Notre Dame Scholar is a great honor! While there is not a specific scholarship fund for Notre Dame Scholars, Scholars who receive a financial aid package do typically tend to see less loan and more scholarship in their packages.
Stefan - Stuart, FL
I am late submitting my financial aid forms. Will I still have an opportunity to receive any help with my tuition?
ND Admissions
Hi Stefan,
Please see the prior postings on the financial aid application process and availability for late applicants.
Michelle - Fairfax, VA
Is what I received in the financial aid packet final?
ND Admissions
Dear Michelle,
We posted a response earlier in the chat about reconsideration for financial aid. Our goal is to offer the best financial aid package possible based upon the information we were given by your family. If there are circumstances you do not believe we considered or family circumstances have changed, we suggest you submit a written appeal with documentation and we will re-evaluate your eligibility.
Charlie - Omaha, NE
How prevalent are the ROTC programs in Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Approximately 3-4% of the incoming class will be participating in ROTC.
Meredith Angell - Mason City, IA
Does Notre Dame have a Best Buddies program? Where can I find a list of activities available?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame’s Best Buddies program is very active on campus, and it is a very popular service opportunity for students here. Here is a link to the list of student activities:
http://sao.nd.edu/studentgroups/listing/index.shtml
Christine - Seoul,
How is the medical program in Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
The overall admit rate for students applying to medical school is nearly 80%. For students majoring in biology, chemistry, and biochemistry, the acceptance rate approaches 90%. The program is very rigorous, but students are well-prepared for the challenges of medical school. Department of Preprofessional Studies
Steven - Buffalo, NY
Earlier you said that about 6% of the students are Notre Dame Scholars, is that percent from the 14,353 applicants or the 3,850 accepted students?
ND Admissions
Steven- that is 6% of the applicants…
Anthony - Las Vegas, NV
I have always dreamed of attending Notre Dame, but I have recieved significant scholarships from other schools, too. Does the novelty of finally attending Notre Dame ever wear off?
ND Admissions
NO! And I’m not saying that because I work for in Admissions, but I work for Admissions because I feel that way. As hard as it may be to believe, the novelty of Notre Dame NEVER wears off.
It’s hard to grasp when you’re in your shoes, but this is really something that will impact you for the rest of your life. You’ll walk away from Notre Dame with a great education, but also life-long friends and some amazing experiences. As cheesy as it sounds, I still walk around campus and look around and just pinch myself sometimes because I’m always awed and amazed by this campus and this place.
I understand your situation-I was offered some very nice financial aid packages from other schools. But, in the end, the loans I took were well worth the overall experience. Even as I pay my loans today, I would go back and do everything again if given the chance!
Patrick - Decatur, Ga
What is Notre Dame's alcohol policy and how strictly is it enforced? Do ND students know how to party?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame abides by the state law, which states that 21 is the legal drinking age. The alcohol policy is strictly enforced. And ND students do know how to party.
Mark - Phoenix, AR
For any current student - how did YOU decide that Notre Dame was the right choice, considering finances and location?
ND Admissions
Notre Dame has a needs-blind admissions process, so every student will be able to attend if they are accepted. I’m from Montana, so location was not a particularly big deal. There is a fair representation from Arizona, so students do in fact live if they decide to come here! The big play for Notre Dame, in my view, is that it offers the best overall college experience in America. It has top-notch academics, but also has a vibrant student life, and things like school spirit are absolutely amazing. This is what I knew about the school, and it tipped the scales for me.
Brittani - Effingham, IL
I read somewhere that earning a dual degree usually takes five years. Is it at all possible to do it in four years? If not, can you still double major in two different schools without getting a dual degree?
ND Admissions
Brittani, dual degrees usually require five years at ND. Two majors, even from two separate schools or colleges, can usually be done in four years.
Jared - Niles, MI
How many organized events does ND put on in the course of a year? For example, dances, rallies, etc.
ND Admissions
Notre Dame puts on several organized events each weekend! There are pep rallies the night before each football game in the fall. Each dorm has around 3 dances throughout the course of the year (and there will be 28 dorms next year!). There are always theatrical productions being put on and lots of different comedy and musical acts attending campus. If you are worried about finding things to do on campus- Don’t Worry!!! There are always events happening, you just have to look around at all the posters on campus!
Jared - Niles, MI
I heard that ND students have free access to St. Mary's and/or Holy Cross facilities (i.e. rec centers). Is this true?
ND Admissions
Hi Jared,
Yes, I believe you can access those facilities for free with your Notre Dame student ID.
Teresa - Haddon Township, NJ
Is there significant student support (in terms of fan spirit and attendance) for sports other than football?
ND Admissions
Hi Teresa,
There is still good student support for sports other than football (though, of course, football is the only team that plays in an 80,000+ seat stadium!). But other than football and men’s basketball, students are able to get into games for free, and usually there is a decent turnout for all sports. In the end, we’re all Fighting Irish!
Chiamaka - Union, NJ
Do celebrities hold concerts? If so, which one have come ny recently?
ND Admissions
I have seen several concerts at Notre Dame and the Student Union Board does a great job of getting some big names in. I have seen Third Eye Blind, Common, Ben Folds, Rooney, Ben Kweller, and Citizen Cope. Those are just the bands I have gone to see (and I have not seen nearly all of them!). Sarah Bareilles and Gym Class Hereos are both playing on campus this week as a matter of fact! You can check out the website of our on campus bar/ club- Legends, where a lot of the performers play. The website is www.legendsofnotredame.org !
Meredith Angell - Mason City, IA
Are there different gym classes freshman can take or is it the same required course for everyone?
ND Admissions
There are many different options for gym classes available. Students sign up for their choice of class after they have been registered for their classes in the Fall. There are classes in dance, ice-skating, golf, frisbee, fitness, and even things like a triathlon class. These vary from year to year, however. There IS a section of a health-type class that is compulsory, and every freshman must take.
Allison - South Bend, IN
Is it necessary to take the Advanced Placement exams that my high school has been offering, and what requirements would those exams be for?
ND Admissions
Allison, it is not necessary to take AP exams. It is generally helpful to take some in subjects which are strengths for you. The full chart of AP scores and credits is found on page 41 of the academic Bulletin of Information.
Julia - Bakersfield, CA
How much of a time commitment is the marching band? Would it be possible to join my sophmore year? If I attend band camp am I obligated to join the band?
ND Admissions
Marching Band rehearsals are held daily, Monday through Thursday, during the Fall semester. Rehearsals are held in the late afternoon/early evening following classes, and last approximately 90 minutes. Game Day Saturdays are very busy but rewarding days, with a morning rehearsal and the Concert On The Steps prior to game time. Most students find that the time commitment causes them or organize their time more efficiently. And, students from every area of study on campus are able to find time to participate. Yes, you join in your sophomore year. And, I do not believe you are obligated to join the band if you attend band camp. Please refer to the band FAQ for more information.
Ross - Greenwood, IN
Is it still possible to receive financial aid if my family did not complete FAFSA by the priority deadline?
ND Admissions
Dear Ross,
I would encourage you to complete the FAFSA and CSS/PROFILE as soon as possible so we may review your application. It is still possible to receive consideration for assistance.
