University of Notre Dame holds high standards for its applicants, emphasizing academic excellence and holistic achievements. Let’s explore the specifics of Notre Dame’s ACT scores and requirements. Don’t forget to check out our related article covering Notre Dame’s SAT requirements!
What is the average ACT score at Notre Dame?
Reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, Notre Dame’s average composite ACT score stands around 34 out of 36, surpassing the national average significantly. Among students admitted to Notre Dame, the 25th percentile score was 32, while the 75th percentile reached a perfect 35 composite score.
This means that 25% of admitted students achieved a 32 or below on the ACT. Meanwhile, another 25% of admitted students achieved a 35 or above. These figures highlight the rigorous standards upheld by Notre Dame. Still, not all students must achieve near-perfect results in order to be admitted to Notre Dame.
What are Notre Dame’s ACT requirements?
Notre Dame will maintain a test-optional policy for the 2024 and 2025 application cycles, allowing applicants to decide whether to submit standardized test scores. However, applicants are encouraged to submit materials they believe enhance their application, including ACT scores.
Applicants may self-report their ACT scores during the application process, but official score reports must be submitted if the student is accepted and chooses to enroll. Notre Dame does not require the ACT Writing section, but applicants are welcome to submit these scores if desired.
Detailed information on Notre Dame’s ACT requirements can be found on their FAQs webpage.
What percentage of Notre Dame applicants submit the ACT?
Among students admitted to Notre Dame, 31% submitted ACT scores. SAT scores were submitted by 36% of admitted students, while 33% chose to omit standardized test scores altogether. Notre Dame values the applicant’s choice in presenting materials that best represent their academic abilities and potential.
From these statistics, we can see that roughly equal percentages of students submitted SAT scores, ACT scores, or omitted scores altogether. Admissions committees at Notre Dame do not give any of these choices an advantage over the others. As a result, submit scores from whichever test you prefer, or, if you don’t feel that standardized tests accurately represent your strengths and abilities, you need not submit any scores at all.
Should I go test-optional?
While strong SAT or ACT scores can bolster an application, Notre Dame emphasizes a holistic review process. Applicants should consider their strengths, priorities, and goals when deciding whether to submit standardized test scores. Ultimately, the decision is personal and should align with the applicant’s overall application strategy. In general, if your scores are around or above the 50th percentile, then those scores will likely strengthen your application.
Does Notre Dame superscore the ACT?
Notre Dame superscores the SAT, considering the highest scores in each section across multiple test dates. This policy allows applicants to showcase their strengths from various testing opportunities. Additionally, Notre Dame permits score choice, enabling students to select which test dates they wish to submit, but they strongly encourage you to submit all scores. Because they create superscores, it is in your best interest to submit all scores as only the highest section scores will be considered.
What’s a good ACT score for Notre Dame?
Notre Dame does not set specific SAT score requirements. However, most admitted students submitted high standardized testing scores. While aiming for scores at or above the average can strengthen an application, Notre Dame evaluates applicants holistically, considering various factors beyond standardized tests. Strong essays, impressive extracurriculars, and an ambitious transcript can all reflect your academic abilities and help you gain admission.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 32 | 34 | 35 |
Can I get into Notre Dame with a low ACT?
While challenging, gaining admission to Notre Dame with a lower SAT score is possible. Notre Dame values academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. Applicants demonstrating excellence in these areas may distinguish themselves despite lower standardized test scores.
In addition, if you do not feel that your standardized test scores accurately reflect your academic strengths and abilities, you need not include them in your application.
When should I take the ACT for Notre Dame?
For students applying during their senior year, it’s advisable to take the ACT during the preceding junior spring semester. Restrictive Early Action (REA) applicants should submit scores by November 10. Meanwhile, Regular Decision applicants should aim to submit scores before January 10.
These dates are also the deadlines by which you must decide if you would like your standardized test scores to be reviewed by the admissions officers. So, if you took the ACT, followed Notre Dame’s recommendation that you should submit all test scores, and then marked that you did not wish for your test results to be reviewed, then they will not be reviewed.
What is Notre Dame’s ACT code?
Notre Dame’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 1252.
In conclusion, while Notre Dame recognizes the value of standardized testing, it emphasizes a holistic review process that considers academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. Applicants should make informed decisions regarding test submission based on their individual circumstances and goals. If you’re interested in taking the SAT, check out our article on Notre Dame’s SAT statistics and requirements!
