Standardized Testing Policy
Notre Dame will reinstate a standardized testing requirement for undergraduate applicants, beginning with the 2027-2028 admissions cycle. First-year and transfer applicants seeking to enroll in Fall 2028 will need to submit either ACT or SAT scores. The University will remain test optional for those applying for Fall 2027.
Submitting Your Test Scores
Notre Dame does not prefer scores from one exam over the other. If applicants submit the ACT, note that the Science and Writing sections are optional. If you submit results from multiple test sittings, you will be evaluated on the highest score you received in any individual section of that test (i.e., superscoring).
How We Consider Test Scores
All parts of the application help us understand the full context of an individual, reflecting our commitment to educating the whole person. While standardized testing is one of several ways to demonstrate a foundation of academic preparation alongside high school coursework, curriculum rigor, AP & IB exam scores, teacher and counselor recommendations, etc., our evaluation extends well beyond numbers. Through our comprehensive review of each application, we seek to understand your intellectual curiosity, your potential, your commitment to serving others, how you enrich your community, and the personal values that drive you. Our goal is to welcome students who will thrive in our academic environment and embody Notre Dame’s mission to be a powerful means for good in the world. There are no minimum test score requirements for admission, and each test score will be considered in the context of an applicant’s individual circumstances.
How to Report Your Scores
Applicants may self-report scores on the application and should do so by indicating their scores on the testing section of the application, or by submitting an update with scores via the applicant status portal. Admitted students will submit official scores that match their self-reported scores prior to enrolling. Please note that our Office of Undergraduate Admissions will verify scores for all enrolling students who opt to self-report their testing, and any discrepancies between official and self-reported scores may jeopardize a student's place in the class.
International Testing Options
Predicted scores for the following curriculums are deemed acceptable in lieu of SAT/ACT results ONLY for students studying outside the US: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), CGE Advanced Levels (3+ required), French Baccalaureate. Applicants must have (1) completed secondary education outside of the USA, and (2) received one of these credentials. These applicants have the option to submit predicted exam results in lieu of SAT/ACT results.
Requesting a Testing Exception
In extraordinary situations, students may request a testing requirement exception if personal circumstances, such as significant financial or personal hardship, lack of access to testing locations, or natural disaster or community disruption inhibit your ability to take the ACT or the SAT. Students who request the waiver and are approved will not be at a disadvantage in our process.
If you are an international student and have questions, or if you have questions about potential exemptions, please contact us at 574-631-7505.
Testing Resources and Support
Effective for fall 2028 applicants, Notre Dame, in partnership with Schoolhouse.world, will be offering free SAT Bootcamp and College Admissions Workshops to students engaged with a variety of schools and community-based organizations.
For students who desire to take the standardized tests multiple times but are concerned about associated financial expenditures, the College Board provides SAT fee waivers. If you think you're eligible, talk to your school counselor about getting a fee waiver code or request a fee waiver directly from the College Board. You may redeem one fee waiver code or receive benefits directly through the College Board once per lifetime. Additional information about SAT fee waivers can be found here. The ACT also offers fee waivers for up to two times of taking the test. Additional information on ACT fee waivers can be found here.
As a reminder, Notre Dame is affordable to families of all income levels. Learn more about Pathways to Notre Dame and how you can afford a Notre Dame education by clicking here.