FAQs for Admitted Students

Incoming first-year room assignments are randomly generated by a computer; therefore, both the residence hall and roommate are assigned in a random process. We will not honor requests for special housing arrangements unless there is a medical need that requires an accommodation. This process helps to accomplish social and geographic diversification within all the residence halls and is central to our residential tradition.

Details about students' move-in and welcome activities for new students will be shared as they are finalized, with an update provided in early summer by the Division of Student Affairs on the Welcome Weekend website. 

First-year students who completed their first semester in good standing are eligible to purchase a parking pass following Christmas Break and continue their parking privileges throughout their time at the University. All vehicles must be registered with Notre Dame Police Department (NDPD).

South Bend International Airport (SBN) is about 15 minutes from the Notre Dame campus.

Visitors can also fly into Chicago and then drive to Notre Dame. The University is approximately two hours from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and about 90 minutes from Midway International Airport.

The South Shore Line trains run directly from the Chicago Loop (Millennium Station) to South Bend International Airport, with a travel time of around two hours.

Once at the airport, the Notre Dame campus is just a 15-minute car ride away. Various transportation options are available, including taxis, rental cars, and ride-hailing services.

All students are admitted into the University's first-year program and not directly into any of our degree-granting colleges. Successful completion of first-year academic requirements is necessary for a student to initially move into one of the colleges as a sophomore.

Starting college is a major milestone in life, a transition that is more than "going to school." That's why all Notre Dame first-year students are assigned a full-time academic advisor who provides both academic and personal support to help them as they take on the challenge of becoming a successful college student.

Although you may feel you have a well-defined idea of what your four years at Notre Dame will be like, we have many options and opportunities that you may not have considered. Your advisor will help you connect your purpose and passions to the wide variety of outstanding resources at Notre Dame.

Your academic advisor will work closely with you to ensure that you have a coherent educational plan for your four years at the University and that you are prepared to be a contributing member of our academic community. Your advisor will also help you define your aspirations and values and mentor you as you use your skills and abilities to achieve them.

A good working partnership with your advisor will be a key factor in making the most of your first year and the proceeding years at Notre Dame. Watch closely for and respond promptly to communications from your advisor and the first-year program.

Central to the undergraduate education at the Notre Dame is the core curriculum, a set of requirements that apply to all students, regardless of major. These requirements are designed to help students develop a wide range of intellectual capacities. Learn more about the core curriculum.

The amount of AP credit that a student can receive depends on the program and major selected. You should talk with your academic advisor to determine your applicable AP credit. While students cannot use AP credit to satisfy a University core curriculum requirement, Notre Dame will continue to accept the current set of AP exams for credit on the transcript. AP credit can also be used for placement into higher-level courses and to satisfy some college/school/major requirements. Learn more about Advanced Placement credits.

Per the College Board, when you designate the University of Notre Dame using your free score send by the June 20 deadline, your scores should be received by early-July.

Your IRISHPAY account will allow you to see your tuition statement. You will be able to use your bank or other methods to make payments. For more information, visit the Student Accounts website.

The Office of Information Technologies offers detailed information about computers. You may also call the OIT Help Desk with any questions you may have at (574) 631-8111.

The University requires all new students (domestic and international) to have health insurance during all periods of enrollment. Students will be requested to submit proof of insurance to University Health Services (UHS). Many undergraduate students are covered under their parents' health plan. Students who need insurance will be able to purchase University student health insurance. For more information, visit uhs.nd.edu.

To become eligible for accommodations, a student must register with the Center for Student Support and Care by providing recent documentation of their disability. Registered students are responsible for requesting accommodations each semester. For more information, please visit The Center for Student Support and Care.

You will need a warm coat, hat, gloves, and boots. To assist you in preparing for your move to campus and into your residence hall, visit FAQs for new residents. 

A great place to begin your search for employment opportunities is the JOBboard on studentjobs.nd.edu. The JOBboard is updated as new positions become available. If you are interested in working for a particular department and do not see a position listed, please feel free to contact that department directly to inquire about possible employment opportunities.

You may bring a bike or non-electric scooter to campus. All bicycles must be registered with Notre Dame Police Department (NDPD) and display the tag visibly on the bike. Registration is free and can be completed in person with your bicycle at Hammes Mowbray Hall or at one of several registration events held throughout the year. 

The operation, storage, and charging of Personal Electric Vehicles (PEVs) such as e-scooters, e-skateboards, e-hoverboards, and go karts, including the batteries for these vehicles are not allowed on the University's main campus.

Note: Electric mobility aids for those with impaired mobility, such as electric wheelchairs and powerchairs, may be used on campus. Electric bicycles, which have enhanced braking abilities and other safety features, may be used as a means to commute to campus provided they are not brought into any building, are secured in outdoor bike racks, and are operated without electric assistance on campus. 

As a Notre Dame student, you have the opportunity to purchase season tickets. Parents of current students will have the opportunity to participate in the parent game ticket lottery. The Athletics Ticket Office will send you information about obtaining tickets in early summer.