University of Notre Dame GPA Requirements: Complete Fighting Irish Admission Guide
The University of Notre Dame stands as one of America's most prestigious Catholic research universities, renowned for its academic excellence, strong community values, and legendary Fighting Irish athletic tradition. Founded in 1842 in South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame combines rigorous academics with deep spiritual development and social responsibility, consistently ranking among the nation's top universities while maintaining its distinctive Catholic identity and commitment to service.
Quick Answer: University of Notre Dame typically admits students with an unweighted GPA of 4.0+ and a weighted GPA of 4.3+. The middle 50% have GPAs between 3.9-4.0 (unweighted).
University of Notre Dame GPA Requirements
Official GPA Statistics
Average Unweighted GPA
4.03
4.0 scale
Average Weighted GPA
4.48
Weighted scale
Middle 50% Range
3.9 - 4.0
Unweighted GPA
Acceptance Rate
13%
Highly selective
GPA Requirements by College
| College/School | Average GPA | Minimum Competitive |
|---|---|---|
| Mendoza College of Business | 4.52 | 4.2 |
| College of Engineering | 4.45 | 4.1 |
| College of Science | 4.42 | 4.0 |
| College of Arts & Letters | 4.38 | 3.9 |
| Architecture School | 4.35 | 3.8 |
| Pre-Professional Studies | 4.48 | 4.1 |
Academic Preparation Requirements
Core Course Requirements:
- English: 4 years (emphasis on composition, literature, and critical analysis)
- Mathematics: 4 years (through Calculus for Science/Engineering)
- Science: 3-4 years (biology, chemistry, physics for pre-med/engineering)
- Social Studies: 2-3 years (including world history and civics)
- Foreign Language: 2-4 years (same language, 3+ years preferred)
- Fine Arts: 1-2 years (visual or performing arts)
- Additional Academic: Advanced courses in areas of interest
University of Notre Dame Admission Statistics
Fall 2024 Admission Data
- Applications Received: 28,351
- Students Admitted: 3,686
- Acceptance Rate: 13.0%
- Enrolled Students: 2,126
- Yield Rate: 57.7%
Academic Profile
- Average SAT: 1520
- Average ACT: 34
- Top 10% of Class: 91%
- Top 25% of Class: 98%
- Valedictorians: 28%
Early Action vs Regular Decision
Notre Dame's Academic Excellence & Rankings
National Rankings:
- US News National Universities: #20
- Mendoza Business School: #1 (Undergraduate)
- Engineering Programs: #38
- Best Value Schools: #15
- Alumni Career Outcomes: #5
- Campus Life: #2
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration: #1
- Finance: #2
- Accounting: #4
- Pre-Medical Studies: Top 10
- Liberal Arts: #8
- Philosophy: #2
Notre Dame's Catholic Mission & Values
Catholic Research University: Notre Dame integrates faith and reason in pursuit of knowledge, combining academic excellence with moral formation and service to others.
Core Values:
- Excellence in teaching and research
- Faith and spiritual development
- Service to the common good
- Community and residential life
- Global perspective and engagement
Service Initiatives:
- Center for Social Concerns
- Summer Service Learning Program
- Alumni Service Projects
- Urban Plunge experience
- International service programs
GPA Analysis for University of Notre Dame
What GPA Do You Need?
Minimum Consideration: Unweighted GPA of 3.8+ for competitive review
Strong Consideration: Unweighted GPA of 3.9+ for solid admission chances
Mendoza Business: Weighted GPA of 4.4+ with exceptional leadership
Honors Programs: Weighted GPA of 4.5+ with service experience
GPA Distribution of Admitted Students
Fighting Irish Traditions & Campus Life
ND Traditions:
- Golden Dome and Basilica of Sacred Heart
- Touchdown Jesus and stadium traditions
- Residential college system
- Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
- Leprechaun mascot and Fight Song
- Blue and Gold school colors
Notable Alumni:
- Condoleezza Rice (Former Secretary of State)
- Joe Montana (NFL Hall of Fame)
- Regis Philbin (TV Host)
- Anne Rice (Author)
- Tim Cook (Apple CEO, Honorary)
- Knute Rockne (Legendary Coach)
Application Strategies for University of Notre Dame
Special Programs and Scholarships
Premier Programs at Notre Dame:
- Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars: Full-ride merit scholarship program
- Glynn Family Honors Program: Liberal arts honors experience
- John W. Gallivan Program: Real estate studies
- Keough School of Global Affairs: International studies
- Alliance for Catholic Education: Teaching and service
- Notre Dame Business Fellows: Elite business program
Personal Statement Strategy
Notre Dame Values:
Notre Dame seeks students who embody:
- Academic Excellence: Commitment to rigorous intellectual pursuit
- Faith Formation: Openness to spiritual growth and development
- Service Orientation: Dedication to serving others and social justice
- Community Building: Strong interpersonal skills and collaboration
- Moral Leadership: Ethical decision-making and integrity
- Global Perspective: Understanding of interconnected world challenges
If Your GPA is Below 3.9
- Exceptional Test Scores: SAT 1550+ or ACT 35+ to demonstrate capability
- Profound Service Record: Significant community service or mission work
- Compelling Faith Story: Personal narrative of spiritual growth
- Leadership Excellence: Outstanding leadership in meaningful activities
- Unique Talents: Exceptional abilities in arts, athletics, or academics
- Early Action Strategy: Apply early to demonstrate strong interest
Notre Dame-Specific Application Tips
- Catholic Identity: Show understanding and respect for Catholic mission (not required to be Catholic)
- Service Excellence: Demonstrate genuine commitment to helping others
- "Why Notre Dame" Focus: Research specific programs and opportunities
- Community Spirit: Show appreciation for residential college system
- Faith and Reason: Articulate how you integrate intellectual and spiritual growth
- Alumni Network: Connect with alumni or current students to show genuine interest
Top Catholic Universities Comparison
| University | Average GPA | Acceptance Rate | Average SAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Notre Dame | 4.03 | 13% | 1520 |
| Georgetown University | 4.01 | 12% | 1540 |
| Boston College | 3.96 | 17% | 1490 |
| Villanova University | 3.92 | 25% | 1470 |
| Holy Cross | 3.85 | 34% | 1420 |
GPA Calculator Tools
Use these calculators to calculate your GPA and assess your Notre Dame chances:
Conclusion
The University of Notre Dame represents the finest in Catholic higher education, combining academic excellence with moral formation and service to others. With a highly selective 13% acceptance rate and distinguished Fighting Irish traditions, Notre Dame offers a transformative educational experience that develops the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—preparing graduates to be leaders of positive change in the world.
Success in Notre Dame admission requires exceptional academic preparation with a GPA of 4.0+ and demonstrated commitment to service, community, and personal growth. Focus on showcasing your intellectual curiosity, moral character, and dedication to making a meaningful difference in your communities to join the Notre Dame family and carry forward the university's mission of faith, service, and excellence.