Overview
Founded in 1842 by Father Edward Sorin of the Congregation of Holy Cross, the University of Notre Dame has grown from a small frontier college into one of the nation's premier private research universities. Known for its strong Catholic identity, rigorous liberal arts core, and distinguished programs in business, law, engineering, and international affairs, Notre Dame consistently ranks among the top national universities. Its iconic Golden Dome, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes symbolize a deep commitment to faith, scholarship, and service.
At a Glance
| Type | Private Research |
| Location | Notre Dame, Indiana |
| Founded | 1842 |
| Total students | 13,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 9:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 12% |
| Graduation rate | 96% |
| Average starting salary | $70,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $62,600 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,600 |
| Room & board | $18,500 |
| Average financial aid | $52,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 50% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1440-1550 |
| ACT range | 33-35 |
| Average GPA | 4.1 |
| Regular deadline | January 1 |
Top Programs
- Business (Mendoza)
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Finance
- Architecture
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.