Emerging Scholars Program
Notre Dame Emerging Scholars Program
At the University of Notre Dame, we believe in recognizing potential, nurturing talent, and helping students discover what's possible.
The Notre Dame Emerging Scholars Program connects exceptional first-generation and low-income high school students identified through our school and community partners with opportunities to explore Notre Dame, prepare for college, and build meaningful relationships along the way.
Rooted in our Catholic mission to educate the whole person, the program offers personalized guidance, mentorship, and experiences designed to help students grow academically and personally, beginning early in high school and continuing throughout their college journey.
Freshman & Sophomore Years: Discover What's Possible
The journey begins with opportunities for students and their families to get to know Notre Dame and explore their educational futures.
Through regular newsletters, workshops, and college-readiness resources, Notre Dame Emerging Scholars receive guidance on preparing for college, discovering their interests, and considering what matters most in finding the right college fit.
Junior Year: Prepare for What's Next
As students approach their senior year, Notre Dame Emerging Scholars gain access to additional resources and opportunities to prepare for college.
These include Schoolhouse SAT Bootcamps and the opportunity to apply to Notre Dame's Summer Scholars Pre-College program. Notre Dame Emerging Scholars who are accepted into Summer Scholars receive full funding to participate.
Summer Before Senior Year: Experience Notre Dame
Through Notre Dame's two-week residential Summer Scholars program, participating Notre Dame Emerging Scholars experience what it's like to live and learn on campus.
Students take college-level courses taught by Notre Dame faculty, experience residential life, and become part of a community of peers who share their curiosity and ambition.
Senior Year: Guidance Along the Way
As students navigate their final year of high school and prepare for college, Notre Dame Emerging Scholars receive mentorship from a current Notre Dame student and access to virtual career and professional development opportunities.
Students also have the opportunity to apply for undergraduate admission to Notre Dame through Restrictive Early Action.
For those admitted to the University, the program provides a fully funded opportunity to attend The Rally, Notre Dame's admitted-student experience, alongside a parent or guardian.
At Notre Dame: A Community That Continues to Invest in You
For students admitted to the University and selected as Notre Dame Scholars, the journey continues with a four-year, full cost-of-attendance scholarship and a community committed to their growth and success.
Notre Dame Emerging Scholars benefit from ongoing mentorship, professional and career development opportunities, and connections with fellow scholars who offer a lasting sense of community and belonging.
Nominate Yourself or a Student You Know
Students can be nominated as early as 8th grade or at any time during high school. If you are ready to take the next step, or know of a student who is, complete the form below to nominate yourself (as a student) or a student in your school or organization.