What GPA Do You Need to Get Into Notre Dame? A Comprehensive Guide
The University of Notre Dame, located in Notre Dame, Indiana, is one of the most prestigious and competitive private universities in the United States. Known for its strong academics, rich traditions, and spirited athletics, Notre Dame consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities. As such, gaining admission is highly competitive — and GPA is a crucial factor.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the GPA requirements for Notre Dame, what they mean for prospective students, and how other factors like test scores, extracurriculars, and essays contribute to the university’s holistic admissions process.
Understanding Notre Dame’s GPA Expectations
What Is the Average GPA of Admitted Students?
The average high school GPA of students admitted to Notre Dame is around 4.06 on a weighted 4.0 scale. This means that most successful applicants are at the top of their class, often earning straight A’s or very close to it.
Is a 4.0 GPA Good Enough?
Yes — a 4.0 GPA is very competitive for Notre Dame, especially if it includes rigorous coursework such as:
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Advanced Placement (AP) classes
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International Baccalaureate (IB) programs
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Honors courses
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Dual enrollment or college-level courses
However, simply having a high GPA isn’t always enough. Notre Dame looks for students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership, passion, and a commitment to their community.
How Competitive Is Notre Dame?
Acceptance Rate
As of recent admissions cycles, Notre Dame’s acceptance rate hovers around 11–13%, making it one of the more selective universities in the country. For context:
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Over 28,000 students apply annually
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Fewer than 4,000 are admitted
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The university enrolls about 2,000–2,100 freshmen each year
With such a low acceptance rate, having an impressive GPA is crucial — but not the only factor.
What Kind of GPA Should You Aim For?
Minimum GPA for Consideration
While Notre Dame doesn’t publish an official minimum GPA, it’s safe to say that students with a GPA below 3.7 will have a very difficult time gaining admission — unless they bring something extraordinary to the table (e.g., Olympic-level talent, major awards, or other unique achievements).
Competitive GPA Range
| GPA Range (Weighted) | Admission Chances |
|---|---|
| 4.0 – 4.3 | Very Strong |
| 3.8 – 3.99 | Competitive |
| 3.6 – 3.79 | Reach School |
| Below 3.6 | Very Unlikely (Unless Exceptional) |
Note: These are estimated figures and do not guarantee admission or rejection.
What Else Does Notre Dame Look For?
Notre Dame practices holistic admissions, meaning they consider the whole person, not just numbers. In addition to GPA, they closely evaluate:
Standardized Test Scores (Optional but Considered)
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SAT Middle 50%: 1410–1550
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ACT Middle 50%: 32–35
Notre Dame is test-optional through at least 2025, but submitting high scores can strengthen an application, especially if GPA is borderline.
Rigor of Coursework
Admissions officers look closely at the difficulty of the classes you took relative to what was available at your school. A 4.0 in regular classes isn’t viewed the same as a 3.9 in AP/IB classes.
Essays
Notre Dame requires several supplemental essays that help reveal your personality, values, and intellectual curiosity. They carry significant weight in the admissions process.
Extracurricular Activities
Strong leadership roles, deep involvement, and unique accomplishments can help set you apart.
Letters of Recommendation
Compelling letters from teachers or counselors can reinforce your academic ability and personal character.
Tips for Strengthening Your Application
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Take Challenging Classes: Demonstrate that you’re willing to push yourself academically.
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Aim for Consistent Excellence: An upward trend can help if you had a slow start.
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Develop a Passion Project or Interest: Notre Dame values mission-driven students.
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Showcase Your Fit with Notre Dame: Through essays, show how your values align with the university’s mission.
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Don’t Neglect the Interview (If Offered): Use it to demonstrate your enthusiasm and authenticity.
Final Thoughts
So, What GPA Do You Need for Notre Dame?
To maximize your chances of getting into Notre Dame, aim for a GPA of 4.0 or higher, ideally with challenging courses and a strong overall application. But remember: Notre Dame looks beyond numbers. They want students who are intellectually curious, morally grounded, and eager to make a positive impact on the world.
If your GPA isn’t perfect, don’t give up. Highlight your strengths in other areas, be authentic in your essays, and show Notre Dame why you belong there.