Chats » Prospective Student Chat 2008/2009
John - Chicago, IL
If you receive my ACT score report before I have submitted my actual supplement or application, will it (the score report) be kept on file?
ND Admissions
yes, it will be
Josh - San Antonio, TX
How is the math and physics programs at ND? I'm interested in applied and mathematics and theoretical physics.
ND Admissions
Notre Dame has very strong science programs including mathematics and physics. You have the opportunity in the summers to participate in REUs. And the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Notre Dame together created the Institute for Theoretical Sciences with a large emphasis on promoting research in the theoretical sciences. For more information on the applied mathematics program go to http://math.nd.edu/research/applied_math/index.shtml.
Robert - Blauvelt, NY
I have made an official visit and attended the Introduction to Engineering Program at Notre Dame and am appliying early action, is there anything else in particular I can do that is related directly to the University that would increase my chances of being accepted? Thank You.
ND Admissions
Hi Robert- The best advice- make each part of your application (at commonapp.org) shine. Take your time with your essays- and have some fun with the process. Tell us about your academic and extracurricular passions.
Kristina - South Bend, IN
How much of an increase in applicants due you expect to receive due to Notre Dame's use of the Common App?
ND Admissions
Kristina, we think we’ll get a healthy increase, but we beyond that we don’t know. Wish us luck!
Andrew - South Bend, IN
Do you prefer to see SAT scores more spread out, or close together in terms of points scored per each section.
ND Admissions
Competitive students have strong scores in all 3 SAT sections.
Alexis - Butler, IN
How many minors can be achieved at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
This depends on your program of study. Some students will pursue 2 minors.
Meghan - Endwell, NY
What percentage of Notre Dame students study abroad for at least a semester? If a high school senior is considering a year abroad with Rotary and wishes to defer their application until the next year, how would Notre Dame handle that?
ND Admissions
Hi Meghan-
About one-half of our undergrads study abroad for at least a semester. We have over 20 international study programs. Check out their website at http://www.nd.edu/~ois/
If you would like to postpone your enrollment (after admission) for a year to study abroad- just ask- we’ll certainly allow that!
Kayla - Eden Prairie, MN
My grandpa attended Notre Dame but had to leave due to a military draft. I know this isn't exactly a legacy but is it any advantage?
ND Admissions
Kayla,
A legacy applicant is an applicant whose mother or father graduated from Notre Dame. Even if your grandfather had completed his academic career at Notre Dame, you would still not be considered a legacy applicant.
Steve - Macomb, MI
I'm involved in the band at my high school and was wondering about the Fighting Irish band? Is this a prominent program on campus?
ND Admissions
Yes, the Band of the Fighting Irish is a prominent program on campus. The band has over 380+ members from majors across the University.
Sarah - Cary, NC
Do you know if it's possible to study abroad if you are an American Studies major?
ND Admissions
There is an opportunity for all majors to participate in study abroad.
Caitlin - Scottdale, PA
In Pennsylvania we have the "PSSA's" which is Pennsylvania's standardized test. I scored very well on the test. Could this be considered for my application?
ND Admissions
Caitlin – everything helps!
Kristin - Vestal, NY
About how many AP and or Honors courses does the average admissable student take in their high school career?
ND Admissions
Good evening, Kristin- The answer to your question wil vary based on the size of a student’s high school. As you can imagine some small high schools might not be able to offer a large numbers of AP or Honors classes. Take the best courses in your high school that suit you and your interests, Kristin.
Deb - Boston, MA
I know Notre Dame has a strong pre med program, but you dont have a medical school. What are some medical schools youre affiliated with?
ND Admissions
Indiana University has a satellite branch of their medical school across the street from Notre Dame. We also end up setting students to schools all across the country. We also have alumni all over the world, which makes a great network for pre-med students to utilize for internships and when applying to medical schools.
Sammie - West Bend, WI
Is it looked down upon if for one of our essays we use one we have used on another application?
ND Admissions
No. Submit your strongest essay.
Steve - Steelton, PA
How much does being the child of a Notre Dame alumni help in the admissions process?
ND Admissions
Steve,
We look at legacy status as part of our decision making process and it can help us make a decision when considering close cases. A legacy applicant is and applicant whose mother or father has graduated from Notre Dame.
Michelle - Wayland, MA
Do you feel comfortable talking to teachers about topics you don't understand, or asking clarifying questions?
ND Admissions
Yes, professors are very approachable. Professors are required to hold office hours and most of them are willing to make other appointments throughout the week. They love for students to come and talk to them and ask for clarifications both in class or during these meetings.
Stephen - Midland, MI
For financial aid, are special factors taken into account, like coming from a family of ten, even though we have a relatively high income. And is it possible to contact the financial aid office if you don't believe you can afford the amount originally specified by the financial aid office?
ND Admissions
The Financial Aid Office takes family situations into account during their evaluation process.
Matthew - East Sandwich, MA
I have visited Notre Dame several times and love spending time at the university and on campus. I just had some questions about the academics. How many students usually study design each year at the university? Also, are there many students that double major while at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
It is not one of the most popular majors, but it is a strong program. For example, an ND girl won Mazda’s design competition in which you get to then design cars right out of college. Also, many students choose to double major. I personally know some in every college, I believe.
Jedson - Burlington, NJ
if i get a letter of recommendation from my spanish teacher is that considered a core academic class
ND Admissions
Jedson – sure.
Michael - Kansas City, MO
Is demonstration of interest by visiting to campus considered when reviewing an applicant?
ND Admissions
Hi Michael- Thanks for writing. Actually when you come to campus we do not offer an interview- rather we want you to fully enjoy the experience and simply get to know us better. So by all means, come and see us, but don’t worry about its impact on your decision.
Alexis - Butler, IN
Will Notre Dame be adding a medical school in the future?
ND Admissions
There are no plans at this time to add a medical school.
Joe - Lititz, PA
Is it possible to walk on to the cross country team at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
You should contact the cross country team head coach.
Kasey - , MI
On the admissions website it said that the writing portion of the ACT was not necessary. I recently retook the ACT, without writing, and scored significantly higher. Would that reflect badly in any way?
ND Admissions
Kasey. Don’t worry about that. It won’t matter to us. The only thing that counts is your best composite score.
Kelly - Cranford, NJ
What is your student to teacher ratio?
ND Admissions
Hi Kelly- Thanks for the question! Our faculty to student ratio is about 12 to 1. We’ve got a great faculty- who all teach at least one undergraduate course.
Lauren - Bloomington, MN
I realize that ND is a Catholic University. However, do they have religious services or groups for students of other religions or no religions at all?
ND Admissions
Yes. Campus ministry is a great resource to utilize, as they provide interfaith services and transportation for students to any South Bend house of worship.
Brad - Elk Grove, Ca
Are interviews required or recommended for admission?
ND Admissions
We do not offer interviews for the admissions process.
Jordan - Eagan, MN
Does the FAFSA and CSS need to be submitted at the same time as the application or are those submitted after acceptance?
ND Admissions
Hi Jordan,
The FAFSA and CSS Profile can be submitted separately from the application. In order to receive a financial aid decision in a timely manner, both must be submitted by February 15. You should submit these forms as early as possible, even if you have not received an admissions decision from our office.
Tom - Aurora, Ohio
I actually have more of a personal question that I needed answered. Last year Mr. Saracino, from ND, came to my high school to give a speech on the admissions process. Afterwards I asked him if he thought it I should take AP Physics in addition to the two other AP courses and one advance course this year as a junior in high school. In response he told me that my schedule this year and in my freshman and sophomore years seemed challenging enough and to just take regular physics. Since junior year started I have found that even with these AP and advanced courses I don't have very much homework or studying to do at night (knock on wood). So my question is, should I attempt to switch to AP or just stick with regular and use the extra time to participate in other extracurricular or community service activities? (sorry for such a lengthy question)
ND Admissions
We suggest that you take the most rigorous coursework that you are able to handle and continue to perform well.
Nikki - Washington, DC
How many students applied early last year and how many of those were accepted?
ND Admissions
Nikki, we typically receive between 3,000 and 4,000 early action applications. We might admit 1,000 during that period.
Brendan - Glastonbury, CT
With the upcoming election, I know there is a lot of excitement on many college campuses. How political are the students at Notre Dame, and is there opportunity for political involvement and discussion?
ND Admissions
Students from ND have a wide range of political views. The upcoming election has generated a lot of opportunities for interdisciplinary discussions and activities. The opportunities are endless!
Katie - Modesto, CA
Will being recognized in the National Merit Scholar Program help me get admitted to ND?
ND Admissions
Everything will matter in the admissions process! Being named a National Merit Semi-finalist or Finalist is helpful if it supports the other aspects of your academic profile (transcripts, G.P.A., rank in class, and standardized tests).
Michael - Batesville, IN
I have a strong interest in law as a career. What is Notre Dame's Law School ranked.
ND Admissions
Notre Dame’s Law School is annually ranked in the top 25, though our undergraduates do not get “priority” in admissions to our law school. Our pre-law advisors will do a wonderful job of helping our students prepare for an education at the next level.
Rachel - Ozark, MO
If you are considering a major in a field not involving mathematics (ie: English or Romance Languages), how important is it that you take a Math class in HS beyond Algebra II? (and get an A or B) I'm in a Trig class right now (the bane of my existence, lol) and wondered if it mattered all that much to ND, seeing as Math is not my forte. (I already have 3 Math credits.)
ND Admissions
As an arts and letters major although there is a mathematics requirement you could take finite math which covers material not above Algebra II.
Christopher - Bettendorf, IA
I am a senior in high school, and I am very strong academically. I was just wondering, what can I do outside of the classroom that would better my chances of getting accepted to a school like Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Christopher, we do not have a set standard of activity requirements. You can do whatever makes you happy. It doesn’t necessarily have to be sport or youth group. It can be anything: scouts, community service, student government, etc.
Trenton - Kirkland, WA
If I am not a prospective music major but wish to submit select personal work to ND Admissions, should I use the Art Supplement, or just submit a CD of some of my music in the mail?
ND Admissions
Please do use the Art Suplement to submit your music
Cip - Kenosha, WI
How does ND's lacrosse team select their members? How is their record?
ND Admissions
It’s a varsity team, so the coach will recruit you. The women are typically in the top ten and men in the top five. Random info: The last three years the eventual men’s champion has had to beat Notre Dame.
Katie - Virginia Beach, VA
I plan to study music in college. I was wondering what the admissions process is to be a music major. Is it possible to double major with music and another subject too?
ND Admissions
Music intents apply to the first year of studies and also submit a performance CD. Many students are able to double major.
Brendan - Moorestown, NJ
Is it possible for early applicants to find out whether or not all of their application has reached ND? Your website says that regular applicants can find that information in February, but it does not say when early applicants can find out.
ND Admissions
Brendan,
Once we receive all required materials to complete and application, you will receive a notice in the mail that your application is complete and being read. Any Early Action applicants still missing required materials will receive a notice in mid to late November stating what they are missing.
Documents required to complete and application are:
- The Common Application
- The Common Application Essay
- The Notre Dame Supplement to the Common Application
- The Notre Dame Supplement Essay
- High School Transcript
- Teacher Recommendation
- SAT or ACT test score
- Certification of Finances (for International Students only)
Julia - Wilmette, IL
Can you discuss the freshman course of studies? I'm aware that your schedule is put together for you before you arrive on campus. How much control do you have over the classes that are chosen for you? Is there any way to switch into, say, a different history class if there's one that would interest you more? Thank you!
ND Admissions
Freshmen are assigned to the First Year of Studies program, which has its own set of requirements (math, science, first year composition, etc.) that must be completed before you can matriculate into a college. You do have some control of your schedule, because you select the courses you would like to take. This is not a guarantee you will get your choices, but if space exists in the class you would like to take, just talk to your advisor about making the switch.
hilary - fair oaks, CA
Fordham University offers a full scholarship to the College Board's National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars. Do you offer any thing similiar?
ND Admissions
Hi Hilary,
Because our financial aid is completely need-based, we do not offer merit-based scholarships. We encourage students to apply for outside scholarships for which they qualify. These can be applied to their financial aid packages.
John - Chicago, IL
If you receive my ACT score report before I have submitted my actual supplement or application, will it (the score report) be kept on file?
ND Admissions
yes, it will be
Josh - San Antonio, TX
How is the math and physics programs at ND? I'm interested in applied and mathematics and theoretical physics.
ND Admissions
Notre Dame has very strong science programs including mathematics and physics. You have the opportunity in the summers to participate in REUs. And the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Notre Dame together created the Institute for Theoretical Sciences with a large emphasis on promoting research in the theoretical sciences. For more information on the applied mathematics program go to http://math.nd.edu/research/applied_math/index.shtml.
Robert - Blauvelt, NY
I have made an official visit and attended the Introduction to Engineering Program at Notre Dame and am appliying early action, is there anything else in particular I can do that is related directly to the University that would increase my chances of being accepted? Thank You.
ND Admissions
Hi Robert- The best advice- make each part of your application (at commonapp.org) shine. Take your time with your essays- and have some fun with the process. Tell us about your academic and extracurricular passions.
Kristina - South Bend, IN
How much of an increase in applicants due you expect to receive due to Notre Dame's use of the Common App?
ND Admissions
Kristina, we think we’ll get a healthy increase, but we beyond that we don’t know. Wish us luck!
Andrew - South Bend, IN
Do you prefer to see SAT scores more spread out, or close together in terms of points scored per each section.
ND Admissions
Competitive students have strong scores in all 3 SAT sections.
Alexis - Butler, IN
How many minors can be achieved at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
This depends on your program of study. Some students will pursue 2 minors.
Meghan - Endwell, NY
What percentage of Notre Dame students study abroad for at least a semester? If a high school senior is considering a year abroad with Rotary and wishes to defer their application until the next year, how would Notre Dame handle that?
ND Admissions
Hi Meghan-
About one-half of our undergrads study abroad for at least a semester. We have over 20 international study programs. Check out their website at http://www.nd.edu/~ois/ If you would like to postpone your enrollment (after admission) for a year to study abroad- just ask- we’ll certainly allow that!
Kayla - Eden Prairie, MN
My grandpa attended Notre Dame but had to leave due to a military draft. I know this isn't exactly a legacy but is it any advantage?
ND Admissions
Kayla,
A legacy applicant is an applicant whose mother or father graduated from Notre Dame. Even if your grandfather had completed his academic career at Notre Dame, you would still not be considered a legacy applicant.
Steve - Macomb, MI
I'm involved in the band at my high school and was wondering about the Fighting Irish band? Is this a prominent program on campus?
ND Admissions
Yes, the Band of the Fighting Irish is a prominent program on campus. The band has over 380+ members from majors across the University.
Sarah - Cary, NC
Do you know if it's possible to study abroad if you are an American Studies major?
ND Admissions
There is an opportunity for all majors to participate in study abroad.
Caitlin - Scottdale, PA
In Pennsylvania we have the "PSSA's" which is Pennsylvania's standardized test. I scored very well on the test. Could this be considered for my application?
ND Admissions
Caitlin – everything helps!
Kristin - Vestal, NY
About how many AP and or Honors courses does the average admissable student take in their high school career?
ND Admissions
Good evening, Kristin- The answer to your question wil vary based on the size of a student’s high school. As you can imagine some small high schools might not be able to offer a large numbers of AP or Honors classes. Take the best courses in your high school that suit you and your interests, Kristin.
Deb - Boston, MA
I know Notre Dame has a strong pre med program, but you dont have a medical school. What are some medical schools youre affiliated with?
ND Admissions
Indiana University has a satellite branch of their medical school across the street from Notre Dame. We also end up setting students to schools all across the country. We also have alumni all over the world, which makes a great network for pre-med students to utilize for internships and when applying to medical schools.
Sammie - West Bend, WI
Is it looked down upon if for one of our essays we use one we have used on another application?
ND Admissions
No. Submit your strongest essay.
Steve - Steelton, PA
How much does being the child of a Notre Dame alumni help in the admissions process?
ND Admissions
Steve,
We look at legacy status as part of our decision making process and it can help us make a decision when considering close cases. A legacy applicant is and applicant whose mother or father has graduated from Notre Dame.
Michelle - Wayland, MA
Do you feel comfortable talking to teachers about topics you don't understand, or asking clarifying questions?
ND Admissions
Yes, professors are very approachable. Professors are required to hold office hours and most of them are willing to make other appointments throughout the week. They love for students to come and talk to them and ask for clarifications both in class or during these meetings.
Stephen - Midland, MI
For financial aid, are special factors taken into account, like coming from a family of ten, even though we have a relatively high income. And is it possible to contact the financial aid office if you don't believe you can afford the amount originally specified by the financial aid office?
ND Admissions
The Financial Aid Office takes family situations into account during their evaluation process.
Matthew - East Sandwich, MA
I have visited Notre Dame several times and love spending time at the university and on campus. I just had some questions about the academics. How many students usually study design each year at the university? Also, are there many students that double major while at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
It is not one of the most popular majors, but it is a strong program. For example, an ND girl won Mazda’s design competition in which you get to then design cars right out of college. Also, many students choose to double major. I personally know some in every college, I believe.
Jedson - Burlington, NJ
if i get a letter of recommendation from my spanish teacher is that considered a core academic class
ND Admissions
Jedson – sure.
Michael - Kansas City, MO
Is demonstration of interest by visiting to campus considered when reviewing an applicant?
ND Admissions
Hi Michael- Thanks for writing. Actually when you come to campus we do not offer an interview- rather we want you to fully enjoy the experience and simply get to know us better. So by all means, come and see us, but don’t worry about its impact on your decision.
Alexis - Butler, IN
Will Notre Dame be adding a medical school in the future?
ND Admissions
There are no plans at this time to add a medical school.
Joe - Lititz, PA
Is it possible to walk on to the cross country team at Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
You should contact the cross country team head coach.
Kasey - , MI
On the admissions website it said that the writing portion of the ACT was not necessary. I recently retook the ACT, without writing, and scored significantly higher. Would that reflect badly in any way?
ND Admissions
Kasey. Don’t worry about that. It won’t matter to us. The only thing that counts is your best composite score.
Kelly - Cranford, NJ
What is your student to teacher ratio?
ND Admissions
Hi Kelly- Thanks for the question! Our faculty to student ratio is about 12 to 1. We’ve got a great faculty- who all teach at least one undergraduate course.
Lauren - Bloomington, MN
I realize that ND is a Catholic University. However, do they have religious services or groups for students of other religions or no religions at all?
ND Admissions
Yes. Campus ministry is a great resource to utilize, as they provide interfaith services and transportation for students to any South Bend house of worship.
Brad - Elk Grove, Ca
Are interviews required or recommended for admission?
ND Admissions
We do not offer interviews for the admissions process.
Jordan - Eagan, MN
Does the FAFSA and CSS need to be submitted at the same time as the application or are those submitted after acceptance?
ND Admissions
Hi Jordan,
The FAFSA and CSS Profile can be submitted separately from the application. In order to receive a financial aid decision in a timely manner, both must be submitted by February 15. You should submit these forms as early as possible, even if you have not received an admissions decision from our office.
Tom - Aurora, Ohio
I actually have more of a personal question that I needed answered. Last year Mr. Saracino, from ND, came to my high school to give a speech on the admissions process. Afterwards I asked him if he thought it I should take AP Physics in addition to the two other AP courses and one advance course this year as a junior in high school. In response he told me that my schedule this year and in my freshman and sophomore years seemed challenging enough and to just take regular physics. Since junior year started I have found that even with these AP and advanced courses I don't have very much homework or studying to do at night (knock on wood). So my question is, should I attempt to switch to AP or just stick with regular and use the extra time to participate in other extracurricular or community service activities? (sorry for such a lengthy question)
ND Admissions
We suggest that you take the most rigorous coursework that you are able to handle and continue to perform well.
Nikki - Washington, DC
How many students applied early last year and how many of those were accepted?
ND Admissions
Nikki, we typically receive between 3,000 and 4,000 early action applications. We might admit 1,000 during that period.
Brendan - Glastonbury, CT
With the upcoming election, I know there is a lot of excitement on many college campuses. How political are the students at Notre Dame, and is there opportunity for political involvement and discussion?
ND Admissions
Students from ND have a wide range of political views. The upcoming election has generated a lot of opportunities for interdisciplinary discussions and activities. The opportunities are endless!
Katie - Modesto, CA
Will being recognized in the National Merit Scholar Program help me get admitted to ND?
ND Admissions
Everything will matter in the admissions process! Being named a National Merit Semi-finalist or Finalist is helpful if it supports the other aspects of your academic profile (transcripts, G.P.A., rank in class, and standardized tests).
Michael - Batesville, IN
I have a strong interest in law as a career. What is Notre Dame's Law School ranked.
ND Admissions
Notre Dame’s Law School is annually ranked in the top 25, though our undergraduates do not get “priority” in admissions to our law school. Our pre-law advisors will do a wonderful job of helping our students prepare for an education at the next level.
Rachel - Ozark, MO
If you are considering a major in a field not involving mathematics (ie: English or Romance Languages), how important is it that you take a Math class in HS beyond Algebra II? (and get an A or B) I'm in a Trig class right now (the bane of my existence, lol) and wondered if it mattered all that much to ND, seeing as Math is not my forte. (I already have 3 Math credits.)
ND Admissions
As an arts and letters major although there is a mathematics requirement you could take finite math which covers material not above Algebra II.
Christopher - Bettendorf, IA
I am a senior in high school, and I am very strong academically. I was just wondering, what can I do outside of the classroom that would better my chances of getting accepted to a school like Notre Dame?
ND Admissions
Christopher, we do not have a set standard of activity requirements. You can do whatever makes you happy. It doesn’t necessarily have to be sport or youth group. It can be anything: scouts, community service, student government, etc.
Trenton - Kirkland, WA
If I am not a prospective music major but wish to submit select personal work to ND Admissions, should I use the Art Supplement, or just submit a CD of some of my music in the mail?
ND Admissions
Please do use the Art Suplement to submit your music
Cip - Kenosha, WI
How does ND's lacrosse team select their members? How is their record?
ND Admissions
It’s a varsity team, so the coach will recruit you. The women are typically in the top ten and men in the top five. Random info: The last three years the eventual men’s champion has had to beat Notre Dame.
Katie - Virginia Beach, VA
I plan to study music in college. I was wondering what the admissions process is to be a music major. Is it possible to double major with music and another subject too?
ND Admissions
Music intents apply to the first year of studies and also submit a performance CD. Many students are able to double major.
Brendan - Moorestown, NJ
Is it possible for early applicants to find out whether or not all of their application has reached ND? Your website says that regular applicants can find that information in February, but it does not say when early applicants can find out.
ND Admissions
Brendan,
Once we receive all required materials to complete and application, you will receive a notice in the mail that your application is complete and being read. Any Early Action applicants still missing required materials will receive a notice in mid to late November stating what they are missing.
Documents required to complete and application are:- The Common Application
- The Common Application Essay
- The Notre Dame Supplement to the Common Application
- The Notre Dame Supplement Essay
- High School Transcript
- Teacher Recommendation
- SAT or ACT test score
- Certification of Finances (for International Students only)
Julia - Wilmette, IL
Can you discuss the freshman course of studies? I'm aware that your schedule is put together for you before you arrive on campus. How much control do you have over the classes that are chosen for you? Is there any way to switch into, say, a different history class if there's one that would interest you more? Thank you!
ND Admissions
Freshmen are assigned to the First Year of Studies program, which has its own set of requirements (math, science, first year composition, etc.) that must be completed before you can matriculate into a college. You do have some control of your schedule, because you select the courses you would like to take. This is not a guarantee you will get your choices, but if space exists in the class you would like to take, just talk to your advisor about making the switch.
hilary - fair oaks, CA
Fordham University offers a full scholarship to the College Board's National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars. Do you offer any thing similiar?
ND Admissions
Hi Hilary,
Because our financial aid is completely need-based, we do not offer merit-based scholarships. We encourage students to apply for outside scholarships for which they qualify. These can be applied to their financial aid packages.
