University of Notre Dame
Private College · Located in Notre Dame, IN · VetLink Partner since 2016
Admissions Numbers
10 VetLink applicants matriculated
Notre Dame is test-optional through at least 2025-26, meaning you are not required to submit scores from ACT and/or SAT exams when you apply. This policy applies to both first-year and transfer students.
30-60% veterans applied first year*
40-70% veterans applied as transfer*
3.85 Average GPA of VetLink applicants*
(*applicant reported)
How to Apply
Application available on Common App and Apply Coalition with SCOIR
Notre Dame Writing Supplement
Official transcript(s)
Letters of evaluation from teacher
Counselor evaluation (Recommended)
Standardized test scores (Optional)
Application fee (Waiver available)
Veteran Transfer Program
The University of Notre Dame, in partnership with Holy Cross College, has officially established a Veteran Transfer Program for the Fall 2026 admissions cycle.
This program is for applicants intending to start in Fall 2026, and the deadline for a first-year application is January 2nd.
Program Snapshot:
The Opportunity: Select veteran applicants not admitted as a first-year student to Notre Dame will be invited to enroll at Holy Cross College for their freshman year.
The Guarantee: Students who successfully complete their first year at Holy Cross with a 3.5 cumulative GPA (with no grade below a B) are guaranteed transfer admission to Notre Dame as a sophomore (1+3).
Benefits: Participants receive dedicated support from the Notre Dame OMVA, guaranteed on-campus housing at Holy Cross, and full access to Notre Dame clubs and activities. Upon transfer to ND, the Yellow Ribbon Program continues to cover all tuition and fees for 100% eligibility veterans.
Application Details:
Application is FREE: Notre Dame offers a completely free application to all veterans and active-duty service members who apply through the Common App.
No Separate Application Needed: Students do not have to do anything special on their application to be eligible for this program. All veteran first-year applicants are automatically considered.
Program Invitation: Eligible applicants will receive the invitation to the Holy Cross program pathway as a part of their decision letter or shortly after.
Admissions Deadlines
Restrictive Early Action Deadline: November 1
Regular Decision Application Deadline: January 3
Transfer Spring Enrollment Deadline: October 1
Transfer Fall Enrollment Deadline: March 15
Demographics
8,874 enrolled undergraduate students
52% Males // 48% Females
18.7% First generation & low socioeconomic
Academics
75 Degree programs
9:1 student-faculty ratio
90% of classes have fewer than 50 students
Top Academic Programs
Econometrics and Quantitative Economics
Finance
Political Science and Government
Accounting
Computer and Information Sciences
Financial Aid & Scholarships
$83,271 Cost of attendance for full time Undergraduate programs
Need-Blind Admissions
Notre Dame participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program with eligible undergraduates qualifying for support that covers the remaining tuition that the GI Bill doesn't cover
Notre Dame is one of only nine universities that is need-blind for all admitted students, domestic and international, covering 100% of financial need of every admitted undergrad who qualifies for assistance
100% demonstrated financial need met
70% of all undergraduates received some type of financial aid in 2021-22
$55,100 median need-based scholarship awarded to incoming first-year students
Veterans Campus Life
Warrior-Scholar Project - 1-2 week academic preparatory program
ND Office of Military & Veterans Affairs - responsible for making the Notre Dame experience robust, inclusive, and vibrant for military-connected students
Meruelo Family Center for Career Development - learn and discover meaningful careers to be a force for good in the world
500+ recognized student groups
Knowledge in Action
33% undergraduates participate in original research; $244M in record-breaking research awards
66%+ of the University’s undergraduates participate in a study abroad program through nearly 50 international study programs & a network of 11 Global Gateways & centers
89% of students participate in internships or research projects
Alumni & Outcomes
151,415 Active Alumni Worldwide
96% Graduation Rate
98% of students are successful in finding career opportunities (jobs, graduate school, or volunteer work) within six months of graduation
25%+ of Notre Dame seniors pursue graduate school as a first destination
~84% of Notre Dame pre-med students are admitted to medical school
90% law school acceptance rate
More Resources
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