Chats » Prospective Student Pre-Deadline Chat
Nicolas - Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
Applying to Notre Dame, so I filled out all the stuff in the Common Application. I’m ready to send my application but the problem is that their webpage is so crowded (as the deadlines are approaching) so I guess that I will have so print it and send it to you by mail the soonest possible, but I don’t know what is the fee for applying to your university? I’ll wait for your answer and thanks for your time.
ND Admissions
Nicolas,
We encourage you to submit the application online via the Common Application web site. The appliation fee is $65 US dollars.
Lucija - Zagreb,
Hello!
In my IB school I have English A2 at high level and I may swap it to English B HL because I think I have higher chances to get 7.
Teachers told me that 6 in A2 English HL is much stronger and therefore apprised. But since you are taking GPA in the consideration, is it better (to increase my chances for your or any other college) to have 6 in English A2 or 7 in English B?
Best regards,
Lucija Čalić
ND Admissions
Hi Lucija,
I would take the advice of your teachers-they know you and the situation best. We are going to look at your entire body of work and the context surrounding that work-just make sure you do as well as possible in the most challenging classes possible.
Good luck!
Xiao - Beijing,
I am an international applicant. It will be difficult for my family to cover the full tuition fees. But according to the Financial Aid Information on your website, I think I am not be encouraged to apply for Notre Dame, especially during the ongoing financial crisis. I just don't know whether I should continue my application or not.
ND Admissions
Hi Xiao –
We encourage all freshmen applicants to submit a financial aid application regardless of whether they think they might qualify for our need based financial aid – especially in times of economic hardship.
Kristen - Plymouth, MA
Typically, how many students participate in study abroad programs? What programs are available and what are the most popular programs?
ND Admissions
60% of our students participate in study abroad programs that are across the globe—the biggest program is in London (our building is in Trafalgar Square), but we have other programs on every continent except Antartica. We have two service-oriented programs in Africa that are gaining speed and two vibrant programs in Australia as well. Most of these programs will have a Notre Dame building with Notre Dame faculty and other Notre Dame students. Students in any major can go abroad, and most will go for a semester their junior year.
ahmad - ,
I'm an international student in a public school, so my English isn't that good. so my SAT scores in writing and critical reading will be very low. if i get a high score on the SAT math or SAT subjects and toefl test, would it compensate for the very low writing and critical reading scores on the SAT?
ND Admissions
Good evening. I would encourage you to please take the TOEFL exam as we use that exam to evaluate a student’s English skills. Thank you.
Joe - Hamilton, NJ
Do I have chance to get accepterd at ND with a GPA of 3.4 and a SAT score of 1200
ND Admissions
We evaluate each application individually, taking into account test score, high school transcript, extracurricular activities, essays, and a letter of recommendation from a teacher and from a counselor. The mid 50% range on the ACT last year for accepted students was from 32-34. For the SAT, adding critical reading and math, the mid 50% range was from 1370-1490.
Michael - Potomac, MD
Does the transcript have to be received by ND by the application deadline?
ND Admissions
Hi Michael….no, the transcript and test score reports can arrive in January – all that;s needed by December 31 is your segment of the application – personal background, essays, etc. Good luck – we look forward to reviewing your credentials.
David - Cincinnati, OH
I to the ACT again this past weekend (December 13th) and was wondering if I can still submit the score to be considered as part of the Regular Decision application process? I have already submitted my scores from the ACT and my SAT.
ND Admissions
Absolutely. We will accept up to the January test date for the SAT and up to the February test date for the ACT. Also note that the February ACT is not offered in New York.
Nahiyan - ,
Hello! I am an undergradute applicant from Bangladesh and I had some questions.
Firstly, I wanted to know whether Notre Dame currently has any Bangladeshi students and if so, how many, since it is quite unheard of here unfortunately.
Secondly, can you tell me more about the Bengal Bout? Because If I get admitted hopefully, I want to parcipitate in it!
And thirdly! In the Notre Dame supplement it says that students should have some required courses. However in our educational structure ( and A levels system ) we do not have foreign language or history courses. What should I do?
Thank You!
ND Admissions
Good evening. Unfortunately we do not have any current students from Bangladesh. With regards to Bengal Bouts it is a non-professional boxing tournament that we have on campus every year between students; all proceeds go towards charity. Finally, with regards to the A Levels please just submit what you have taken and we will adjust our evaluation appropriately. Thank you.
Maria Sol - Caracas , Venezuela,
Hello,
As my college counselor said I have to submitt the Certificate of Finances Form because I'm an International student, however, my bank is American. Does the bank have to sign the form or can it send a letter directly to Notre Dame?
Thank You,
Maria Sol
ND Admissions
Hi Maria,
If the bank cannot sign the Certification of Finances, please have them sign the documentation they are sending so we know it’s official. Thanks!
John - Great Falls, VA
What is there to do in South Bend, Indiana?
ND Admissions
What ISN’T there to do in South Bend? There’s always a ton going on at Notre Dame—concerts, movies, lectures, sports and the like. We’re 90 miles/a quick train ride from Chicago, but the town itself has delicious local restaurants (I recommend Rocco’s, the Vine, Yesterday’s and Uptown Kitchen), the College Football Hall of Fame is here, there are two malls and many chain restaurants (mmm…Chipotle) and my lifeblood, Super Target. We’re 30 minutes from the Lake Michigan Dunes and Beach and ND is currently building a campus town that will have coffee shops, a pub, and shopping across the street from campus.
But here’s the thing: the best people on earth are at Notre Dame. You will have the time of your life.
Seth - Boca Raton, Florida
The course I am taking this summer, EMT-B is a 3 credit summer course at Western Colorado college. How do I find out if these credits will transfer if I am accepted to Notre Dame ? Thank you.
ND Admissions
Seth,
Courses taken in high school for credit must be:
1. Taken on the college campus
2. Taught by a college professor
3. Taken with peers at the college level
If your course fulfills these requirements, the college department must review your course and determine the appropriate number of credits.
The EMT-B course would be considered in your application, however you most likely will not receive college credit toward this course.
Peter - New Orleans, LA
My high school counselor sent my transcript and secondary school report mid-December. I will finish my online application before Dec. 31st deadline,but how do I know that the materials mailed by my counselor were received by the deadline?
ND Admissions
Peter,
Once your application arrives in our office we will match up any materials sent in ahead of time. You will then be notified via postal mail whether we are still missing an materials.
Jake - Garland, Tx
Is it possible to be put on the waiting list without sending your standardized scores with your application if their not how you like them?
ND Admissions
In order to evaluate your application, we must have a record or a standardized test score. Send us the score that you have when you apply. If you take another test and improve the score, then update us with that information.
Katie - San Ramon, CA
Does the fact that my brother attends the University of Notre Dame have any effect on my decision?
ND Admissions
We do make note of it, but doesn’t affect your decision.
Pablo - ,
If we are using the Common Application to apply online, how do we send the International Student Certification of Finances form? Is there a way to send it online?
ND Admissions
Hi Pablo,
You can either fax, e-mail or mail it to us. You need to send the Certification with bank documentation, so it’s probably best to fax or mail the documents.
Kathleen - Ironton, OH
What do you look for to make a GREAT essay?
ND Admissions
The strong essay tells us a personal story/anecdote and then, reveals the applicant’s view of the story -reaction, growth and gained perspectives – avoid trying to cover too many topics, usual English class reading lists, events too far in the past (middle school years or earlier) 500 words is a good length.
Jae Won - Daejeon,
Hello, I'm an applicant from South Korea and I'm a Korean citizen. Preparing the materials for application, I found that every international student has to submit a completed International Student Certification of Finances. Does that mean international students are considered eligible for the need-blind financial aid as well? Or does demonstrating financial need still affects the application process of international students?
ND Admissions
Hi Jae Won,
All international students are required to submit the Certification of Finances, and financial aid for international students is need-aware. The ability for an international student to pay may affect the application process. You can find more information here: http://www.nd.edu/~finaid/undergraduate/other/international_student_financial_aid.shtml
William - New Rochelle, NY
How long should my personal essay and supplement essay be?
ND Admissions
250-500 words
Seth - Boca Raton, Florida
I have been working as a volunteer with my local First Aid Squad for 3 years. I will take the National EMT-B certification in June .I would like to know how if the Notre Dame campus has such a program I can volunteer with
ND Admissions
Seth,
We have a student organization, FAST (First Aid Services Team). You can find more information on their website.
Hemeng - Guangzhou, China
I want to ask will these scores meet NotreDame's standards if my SAT score is 2070(maths:800,critical reading:610),and my TOEFLscore is 110, average GPA:3.8? Thank you!
ND Admissions
Hi Hemeng,
It’s tough to say—your “numbers” are just part of your application. We also look at your activities, letters from teachers, and a host of other aspects before we make our decision. So, if you score higher, you’ll have a better chance of being admitted, but that’s just part of the process.
Serah Han - Kobe,
What is the most important factor that is considered during the admission process??
ND Admissions
We consider a number of things in your application: the rigor of your curriculum, how you do in your classes, your SAT or ACT score, your essays, extracurriculars and recommendations. None of these factors outweigh any others, but it is hard to make up for a discrepancy in your academic performance.
Redwan - ,
Is the required essay in the supplementary form different from the essay required in the requirements pageon your web site? If not, does my essay have to be about one of the three topics in the supplementary form or can I write about my own topic?
Thanks
ND Admissions
The essay required by Notre Dame is different from the Common Application essay, and we would like you to answer one of the three questions posed by Notre Dame (about 500 words) – Good luck and thanks for your inquiry! Alisa
Alapeti - Tacoma, WA
I want to play football. What are my chances for that opportunity?
ND Admissions
Hi Alapeti,
We could have used a kicker earlier this season—how’s your foot? :)
Usually, each team will hold tryouts sometime during the school year. If you’re really anxious, you can contact the coaches; their contact information is at www.und.com
Kirstin - St. Paul, MN
Does Notre Dame require Alumni interviews?
ND Admissions
We do not! Notre Dame does not do interviews in any form.
Yanlong - Shiyan, Wuhan
I went to U.S. this September as a senior from China. My GPA in China is pretty high while my GPA now is very low. Will it get influence on my admission?
Thank you.
ND Admissions
Hi Yanlong,
We will look at all four years of your high school experience, but we will consider the circumstances of it as well. We know that it is difficult to move in the middle of your high school experience, but we also need to look at all four years of your experience.
Michal - Bratislava, Slovakia
What are the chances (percentage) for an international student to get to ND throught the regular admission process? What are the finence aid and scholarship opportunities in ND? Is there an opportunity of getting a scholarship for athletics as well? If yes, WHO should I talk to, once I am an international, which means that I have no opportunity to show off my skills.? Thanks
ND Admissions
International students have the same chance of being admitted as any other students-while we review the context of your application (for example, from which country you are applying)-whether you are an international student or not will not give you a better or worse chance of being admitted.
Financial aid for international students is somewhat limited and competitive, you can check out the details here
If you’re interested in trying out for a sport, contact the coach directly. You can find the coaches’ contact information at www.und.com
yashvardhan - kota, rajasthan, india
will the test scores from my december 6 SAT be considered. they would only be available by 25th dec .
notre dame is added in my recipient list but it shows 1-2 weeks as the delivery time. thats beyond 31st dec??
2.here in india we have central board examinations[CBSE] in 10th and 12th standards.in indian universities they only consider these cbse[aissce] report cards and passing certificates and the students prepare accordingly .will
notre dame be giving extra consideration to my 10th board marks?
3.by what date you expect my mid term report. my mid terms would start in january and i would be able to send my trancripts only by january end or early feb.
ND Admissions
Yes, your test scores for the December SAT (and actually the January, as well) will be considered for your Regular Action application. As long as your application is submitted by December 31, you’ll be ok!
We will need to see both your 10th and your 12th board marks-please send us four years worth of a transcript and all the information you have for those years-the more information you send us, especially as you apply from an international school—the better you’ll be!
Please send your midterm report as soon as it is available. We know that some schools issue the reports earlier or later than others, but please send it as soon as you have it.
Nicolas - Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
Applying to Notre Dame, so I filled out all the stuff in the Common Application. I’m ready to send my application but the problem is that their webpage is so crowded (as the deadlines are approaching) so I guess that I will have so print it and send it to you by mail the soonest possible, but I don’t know what is the fee for applying to your university? I’ll wait for your answer and thanks for your time.
ND Admissions
Nicolas,
We encourage you to submit the application online via the Common Application web site. The appliation fee is $65 US dollars.
Lucija - Zagreb,
Hello! In my IB school I have English A2 at high level and I may swap it to English B HL because I think I have higher chances to get 7. Teachers told me that 6 in A2 English HL is much stronger and therefore apprised. But since you are taking GPA in the consideration, is it better (to increase my chances for your or any other college) to have 6 in English A2 or 7 in English B? Best regards, Lucija Čalić
ND Admissions
Hi Lucija,
I would take the advice of your teachers-they know you and the situation best. We are going to look at your entire body of work and the context surrounding that work-just make sure you do as well as possible in the most challenging classes possible.
Good luck!
Xiao - Beijing,
I am an international applicant. It will be difficult for my family to cover the full tuition fees. But according to the Financial Aid Information on your website, I think I am not be encouraged to apply for Notre Dame, especially during the ongoing financial crisis. I just don't know whether I should continue my application or not.
ND Admissions
Hi Xiao – We encourage all freshmen applicants to submit a financial aid application regardless of whether they think they might qualify for our need based financial aid – especially in times of economic hardship.
Kristen - Plymouth, MA
Typically, how many students participate in study abroad programs? What programs are available and what are the most popular programs?
ND Admissions
60% of our students participate in study abroad programs that are across the globe—the biggest program is in London (our building is in Trafalgar Square), but we have other programs on every continent except Antartica. We have two service-oriented programs in Africa that are gaining speed and two vibrant programs in Australia as well. Most of these programs will have a Notre Dame building with Notre Dame faculty and other Notre Dame students. Students in any major can go abroad, and most will go for a semester their junior year.
ahmad - ,
I'm an international student in a public school, so my English isn't that good. so my SAT scores in writing and critical reading will be very low. if i get a high score on the SAT math or SAT subjects and toefl test, would it compensate for the very low writing and critical reading scores on the SAT?
ND Admissions
Good evening. I would encourage you to please take the TOEFL exam as we use that exam to evaluate a student’s English skills. Thank you.
Joe - Hamilton, NJ
Do I have chance to get accepterd at ND with a GPA of 3.4 and a SAT score of 1200
ND Admissions
We evaluate each application individually, taking into account test score, high school transcript, extracurricular activities, essays, and a letter of recommendation from a teacher and from a counselor. The mid 50% range on the ACT last year for accepted students was from 32-34. For the SAT, adding critical reading and math, the mid 50% range was from 1370-1490.
Michael - Potomac, MD
Does the transcript have to be received by ND by the application deadline?
ND Admissions
Hi Michael….no, the transcript and test score reports can arrive in January – all that;s needed by December 31 is your segment of the application – personal background, essays, etc. Good luck – we look forward to reviewing your credentials.
David - Cincinnati, OH
I to the ACT again this past weekend (December 13th) and was wondering if I can still submit the score to be considered as part of the Regular Decision application process? I have already submitted my scores from the ACT and my SAT.
ND Admissions
Absolutely. We will accept up to the January test date for the SAT and up to the February test date for the ACT. Also note that the February ACT is not offered in New York.
Nahiyan - ,
Hello! I am an undergradute applicant from Bangladesh and I had some questions. Firstly, I wanted to know whether Notre Dame currently has any Bangladeshi students and if so, how many, since it is quite unheard of here unfortunately. Secondly, can you tell me more about the Bengal Bout? Because If I get admitted hopefully, I want to parcipitate in it! And thirdly! In the Notre Dame supplement it says that students should have some required courses. However in our educational structure ( and A levels system ) we do not have foreign language or history courses. What should I do? Thank You!
ND Admissions
Good evening. Unfortunately we do not have any current students from Bangladesh. With regards to Bengal Bouts it is a non-professional boxing tournament that we have on campus every year between students; all proceeds go towards charity. Finally, with regards to the A Levels please just submit what you have taken and we will adjust our evaluation appropriately. Thank you.
Maria Sol - Caracas , Venezuela,
Hello, As my college counselor said I have to submitt the Certificate of Finances Form because I'm an International student, however, my bank is American. Does the bank have to sign the form or can it send a letter directly to Notre Dame? Thank You, Maria Sol
ND Admissions
Hi Maria,
If the bank cannot sign the Certification of Finances, please have them sign the documentation they are sending so we know it’s official. Thanks!
John - Great Falls, VA
What is there to do in South Bend, Indiana?
ND Admissions
What ISN’T there to do in South Bend? There’s always a ton going on at Notre Dame—concerts, movies, lectures, sports and the like. We’re 90 miles/a quick train ride from Chicago, but the town itself has delicious local restaurants (I recommend Rocco’s, the Vine, Yesterday’s and Uptown Kitchen), the College Football Hall of Fame is here, there are two malls and many chain restaurants (mmm…Chipotle) and my lifeblood, Super Target. We’re 30 minutes from the Lake Michigan Dunes and Beach and ND is currently building a campus town that will have coffee shops, a pub, and shopping across the street from campus.
But here’s the thing: the best people on earth are at Notre Dame. You will have the time of your life.
Seth - Boca Raton, Florida
The course I am taking this summer, EMT-B is a 3 credit summer course at Western Colorado college. How do I find out if these credits will transfer if I am accepted to Notre Dame ? Thank you.
ND Admissions
Seth,
Courses taken in high school for credit must be: 1. Taken on the college campus 2. Taught by a college professor 3. Taken with peers at the college level
If your course fulfills these requirements, the college department must review your course and determine the appropriate number of credits.
The EMT-B course would be considered in your application, however you most likely will not receive college credit toward this course.
Peter - New Orleans, LA
My high school counselor sent my transcript and secondary school report mid-December. I will finish my online application before Dec. 31st deadline,but how do I know that the materials mailed by my counselor were received by the deadline?
ND Admissions
Peter,
Once your application arrives in our office we will match up any materials sent in ahead of time. You will then be notified via postal mail whether we are still missing an materials.
Jake - Garland, Tx
Is it possible to be put on the waiting list without sending your standardized scores with your application if their not how you like them?
ND Admissions
In order to evaluate your application, we must have a record or a standardized test score. Send us the score that you have when you apply. If you take another test and improve the score, then update us with that information.
Katie - San Ramon, CA
Does the fact that my brother attends the University of Notre Dame have any effect on my decision?
ND Admissions
We do make note of it, but doesn’t affect your decision.
Pablo - ,
If we are using the Common Application to apply online, how do we send the International Student Certification of Finances form? Is there a way to send it online?
ND Admissions
Hi Pablo,
You can either fax, e-mail or mail it to us. You need to send the Certification with bank documentation, so it’s probably best to fax or mail the documents.
Kathleen - Ironton, OH
What do you look for to make a GREAT essay?
ND Admissions
The strong essay tells us a personal story/anecdote and then, reveals the applicant’s view of the story -reaction, growth and gained perspectives – avoid trying to cover too many topics, usual English class reading lists, events too far in the past (middle school years or earlier) 500 words is a good length.
Jae Won - Daejeon,
Hello, I'm an applicant from South Korea and I'm a Korean citizen. Preparing the materials for application, I found that every international student has to submit a completed International Student Certification of Finances. Does that mean international students are considered eligible for the need-blind financial aid as well? Or does demonstrating financial need still affects the application process of international students?
ND Admissions
Hi Jae Won,
All international students are required to submit the Certification of Finances, and financial aid for international students is need-aware. The ability for an international student to pay may affect the application process. You can find more information here: http://www.nd.edu/~finaid/undergraduate/other/international_student_financial_aid.shtml
William - New Rochelle, NY
How long should my personal essay and supplement essay be?
ND Admissions
250-500 words
Seth - Boca Raton, Florida
I have been working as a volunteer with my local First Aid Squad for 3 years. I will take the National EMT-B certification in June .I would like to know how if the Notre Dame campus has such a program I can volunteer with
ND Admissions
Seth,
We have a student organization, FAST (First Aid Services Team). You can find more information on their website.
Hemeng - Guangzhou, China
I want to ask will these scores meet NotreDame's standards if my SAT score is 2070(maths:800,critical reading:610),and my TOEFLscore is 110, average GPA:3.8? Thank you!
ND Admissions
Hi Hemeng,
It’s tough to say—your “numbers” are just part of your application. We also look at your activities, letters from teachers, and a host of other aspects before we make our decision. So, if you score higher, you’ll have a better chance of being admitted, but that’s just part of the process.
Serah Han - Kobe,
What is the most important factor that is considered during the admission process??
ND Admissions
We consider a number of things in your application: the rigor of your curriculum, how you do in your classes, your SAT or ACT score, your essays, extracurriculars and recommendations. None of these factors outweigh any others, but it is hard to make up for a discrepancy in your academic performance.
Redwan - ,
Is the required essay in the supplementary form different from the essay required in the requirements pageon your web site? If not, does my essay have to be about one of the three topics in the supplementary form or can I write about my own topic? Thanks
ND Admissions
The essay required by Notre Dame is different from the Common Application essay, and we would like you to answer one of the three questions posed by Notre Dame (about 500 words) – Good luck and thanks for your inquiry! Alisa
Alapeti - Tacoma, WA
I want to play football. What are my chances for that opportunity?
ND Admissions
Hi Alapeti,
We could have used a kicker earlier this season—how’s your foot? :)
Usually, each team will hold tryouts sometime during the school year. If you’re really anxious, you can contact the coaches; their contact information is at www.und.com
Kirstin - St. Paul, MN
Does Notre Dame require Alumni interviews?
ND Admissions
We do not! Notre Dame does not do interviews in any form.
Yanlong - Shiyan, Wuhan
I went to U.S. this September as a senior from China. My GPA in China is pretty high while my GPA now is very low. Will it get influence on my admission? Thank you.
ND Admissions
Hi Yanlong,
We will look at all four years of your high school experience, but we will consider the circumstances of it as well. We know that it is difficult to move in the middle of your high school experience, but we also need to look at all four years of your experience.
Michal - Bratislava, Slovakia
What are the chances (percentage) for an international student to get to ND throught the regular admission process? What are the finence aid and scholarship opportunities in ND? Is there an opportunity of getting a scholarship for athletics as well? If yes, WHO should I talk to, once I am an international, which means that I have no opportunity to show off my skills.? Thanks
ND Admissions
International students have the same chance of being admitted as any other students-while we review the context of your application (for example, from which country you are applying)-whether you are an international student or not will not give you a better or worse chance of being admitted.
Financial aid for international students is somewhat limited and competitive, you can check out the details here
If you’re interested in trying out for a sport, contact the coach directly. You can find the coaches’ contact information at www.und.com
yashvardhan - kota, rajasthan, india
will the test scores from my december 6 SAT be considered. they would only be available by 25th dec . notre dame is added in my recipient list but it shows 1-2 weeks as the delivery time. thats beyond 31st dec?? 2.here in india we have central board examinations[CBSE] in 10th and 12th standards.in indian universities they only consider these cbse[aissce] report cards and passing certificates and the students prepare accordingly .will notre dame be giving extra consideration to my 10th board marks? 3.by what date you expect my mid term report. my mid terms would start in january and i would be able to send my trancripts only by january end or early feb.
ND Admissions
Yes, your test scores for the December SAT (and actually the January, as well) will be considered for your Regular Action application. As long as your application is submitted by December 31, you’ll be ok!
We will need to see both your 10th and your 12th board marks-please send us four years worth of a transcript and all the information you have for those years-the more information you send us, especially as you apply from an international school—the better you’ll be!
Please send your midterm report as soon as it is available. We know that some schools issue the reports earlier or later than others, but please send it as soon as you have it.
