The University of Notre Dame, a top-ranked research institution in the United States, offers exceptional merit-based scholarship opportunities for international undergraduate students through its Notre Dame Scholars Program.
This prestigious program recognizes outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to service.
About the Scholarship
The Notre Dame Scholars Program provides a pathway for high-achieving international students to receive significant financial support and join a vibrant community of future leaders.
Each year, approximately 100 students are selected for this competitive program, receiving annual scholarships of up to $25,000, totaling $100,000 over four years.
Some scholarships also include generous enrichment funding for academic, service, and leadership projects.
The program builds upon the legacy of the Hesburgh-Yusko Scholars Program, Notre Dame’s first merit-based scholarship initiative.
Today, it supports over 350 students, including recipients of the Notre Dame Stamps Scholarship, which covers full tuition and provides $12,000 in enrichment funding.
Courses Available
Notre Dame offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Arts and Letters
- Business
- Science
- Engineering
- Architecture
All of these fields are eligible for the Notre Dame Scholars Program.
The university is known for its rigorous academics, with notable programs in business, economics, political science, and pre-professional studies.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Notre Dame Scholars Program, international applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Demonstrate strong academic performance, including high grades, challenging coursework, and competitive class rank.
- Complete 16 academic units in high school, including 4 units of English, 3 units of Mathematics (4 preferred), 2 units of Foreign Language (3-4 preferred), 2 units of Science (4 preferred for science/engineering majors), and 2 units of History/Social Science (3-4 preferred).
- Showcase leadership and passion through extracurricular involvement.
- Submit one letter of evaluation from a teacher in a core academic subject.
- Write a thoughtful and reflective personal essay as part of the application.
- If applicable, submit proof of English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test scores.
Notre Dame has a test-optional policy, meaning ACT/SAT scores can be submitted but are not required.
Applicants to art, design, architecture, or music majors have the option to submit a talent portfolio.
Who Should Apply
The Notre Dame Scholars Program is ideal for international students who have excelled academically, demonstrated leadership potential, and are committed to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Competitive applicants typically rank in the top percentiles of their graduating class and have actively engaged in extracurricular activities.
If you are a high-achieving student with a passion for learning, leadership, and service, you are encouraged to apply for this prestigious scholarship opportunity.
The program seeks diverse perspectives from around the world and values applicants who will contribute to Notre Dame’s vibrant campus community.
Benefits
As a Notre Dame Scholar, you will receive significant financial support for your undergraduate education, with scholarships covering a substantial portion of tuition costs.
This funding allows you to focus on your academic and personal growth without the burden of excessive student loans.
In addition to the monetary award, Notre Dame Scholars benefit from:
- Joining a tight-knit community of exceptional students from around the world
- Opportunities for research, internships, and international experiences
- Access to dedicated advising and professional development resources
- Invitation to special events and networking opportunities with distinguished alumni and leaders
The program provides a transformative educational experience, equipping scholars with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to become impactful leaders in their chosen fields.
How to Apply
To apply for the University of Notre Dame Undergraduate Scholarships, follow these steps:
- Submit either the Common Application or Coalition Application by the specified deadlines.
- Complete the Notre Dame Writing Supplement as part of your application.
- Optional: Include your ACT/SAT scores, if desired.
- Request official high school transcripts and a letter of evaluation from a core academic subject teacher.
- If your first language is not English, submit official TOEFL, IELTS, DET, or PTE Academic scores.
- Pay the non-refundable $75 application fee.
- Upload a copy of your passport via the applicant status portal.
- If applying for need-based financial aid as a non-U.S. citizen, complete the CSS Profile.
Click here to start your application through the Common App or Coalition App.
Be sure to complete all required components of the application, including the Notre Dame Writing Supplement.
Application Deadlines
There are two application deadlines for the Notre Dame Scholars Program:
- Restrictive Early Action: November 1, 2024
- Regular Decision: January 3, 2025
Conclusion
Restrictive Early Action is a non-binding option that allows you to receive an admission decision by late December. If admitted, you have until May 1 to confirm your enrollment.
Regular Decision applicants will be notified of their admission decision by late March.
Apply now to be considered for the Notre Dame Scholars Program and take advantage of this incredible opportunity to join a world-class academic community.
The University of Notre Dame Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students provide a pathway to access top-tier education, develop your leadership potential, and join a global network of changemakers.
Embrace the opportunity to grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially as part of the Fighting Irish family.
Start your journey today!
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