University of Notre Dame Scholarships for International Students 2025–2026

Introduction: A Legacy of Excellence at the University of Notre Dame

Founded in 1842, the University of Notre Dame is one of the most prestigious private Catholic research universities in the United States. Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, the institution is renowned globally for its academic rigor, strong moral values, and vibrant campus community.

With a mission to educate both the mind and the heart, Notre Dame blends academic excellence with ethical leadership. The university consistently ranks among the top 20 universities in the U.S., attracting thousands of international students every year.

To ensure equal educational access for talented individuals across the world, Notre Dame offers several scholarship opportunities to international students — both merit-based and need-based. These scholarships reflect the university’s dedication to building a diverse and globally aware student body.

Benefits of the University of Notre Dame Scholarships

Earning a scholarship at the University of Notre Dame brings numerous academic, professional, and personal benefits.

 Key Benefits:

Full or partial tuition coverage, depending on the scholarship type.
Accommodation and meal plan assistance for select programs.
Travel grants and research funding for eligible students.
Access to world-class faculty, libraries, and laboratories.
Networking opportunities with global alumni and professionals.
Personal and leadership development programs.
Internship and job placement support through Notre Dame’s career services.

Notre Dame is one of the few U.S. universities that offers need-based financial aid to international students, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent deserving applicants from achieving academic success.

Courses and Programs Covered by Scholarships

Scholarships at Notre Dame apply to a wide range of academic fields at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

 Popular Undergraduate Programs:

Business Administration
Computer Science
Political Science
Architecture
Psychology
Economics
Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
Biology and Environmental Sciences
International Relations
Mathematics

 Popular Graduate Programs:

MBA (Mendoza College of Business)
Law (Juris Doctor and LLM)
Global Affairs
Engineering and Technology Innovation
Education, Literacy, and Leadership
Data Science
Peace Studies

Most scholarships are open to international students enrolling in degree-seeking programs, based on academic merit, leadership, and demonstrated need.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a scholarship at the University of Notre Dame as an international student, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Academic Excellence

A strong academic record with a GPA equivalent of 3.7/4.0 or above.
High performance in standardized tests (SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT as applicable).

2. English Proficiency

Proof of English language proficiency through **TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.

3. Admission Requirement

Applicants must receive an admission offer for a full-time program at Notre Dame.

4. Leadership and Extracurricular Involvement

Demonstrated leadership skills, community service, or innovation achievements.

5. Financial Need (if applicable)

Applicants seeking need-based scholarships must complete financial documentation via the CSS Profile.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following documents to be considered for scholarships:

Completed admission application (via Common App or Graduate Portal).
Official academic transcripts from high school or previous institutions.
Standardized test scores (if required).
English proficiency test results (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo).
CSS Profile (for need-based financial aid).
Two letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or motivation letter.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting achievements.
Copy of valid passport.
Portfolio (for design or architecture programs).

Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the University of Notre Dame scholarships:

1. Choose Your Program

Review Notre Dame’s academic offerings and select your preferred degree program.

2. Submit Admission Application

Apply through the Common Application (undergraduate) or Graduate Application Portal.

3. Apply for Financial Aid (if required)

Complete the CSS Profile to demonstrate financial need.

4. Prepare and Upload Supporting Documents

Include all transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters before the deadline.

5. Automatic Scholarship Consideration

Most merit-based scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission evaluation.

6. Check Updates Regularly

Track your application status through the Notre Dame portal.

Application Deadlines (2025–2026)

Application Type  Deadline
Early Action November 1, 2025
Regular Decision January 1, 2026
CSS Profile (for Financial Aid) By January 15, 2026
Graduate Programs Varies by Department (Typically December–February)

Students are advised to confirm exact deadlines on the official Notre Dame admissions website before applying.

Selection Process

Scholarship recipients are selected through a holistic review process, which evaluates:

Academic performance and intellectual potential.
Leadership qualities and community engagement.
Demonstrated financial need (for need-based awards).
Personal essays and recommendation letters.
Fit with the University of Notre Dame’s mission and values.

Successful candidates are usually notified along with their admission decision.

How to Apply for University of Notre Dame Scholarships

Follow these simple steps to apply effectively:

1. Visit: [https://admissions.nd.edu](https://admissions.nd.edu)
2. Choose your preferred undergraduate or graduate program.
3. Complete the Common Application or Graduate Application Portal.
4. Submit your CSS Profile for financial aid (if applicable).
5. Upload all required documents and essays.
6. Await notification from the admissions and financial aid offices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does the University of Notre Dame offer full scholarships for international students?
Yes. Notre Dame provides full or partial financial aid to international students based on need and merit.

Q2: Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
No. All international applicants are automatically considered for scholarships during admission review.

Q3: What GPA is required for Notre Dame scholarships?
A GPA equivalent to 3.7/4.0 or higher is recommended for merit-based scholarships.

Q4: Can I apply for need-based aid as an international student?
Yes. By submitting the CSS Profile, international students can apply for need-based financial aid.

Q5: Are scholarships renewable every year?
Yes. Most scholarships are renewable annually, provided students maintain good academic standing.

Conclusion

The University of Notre Dame represents more than just academic success — it’s a community built on faith, ethics, and leadership. Its commitment to offering generous scholarships and financial aid allows bright minds from around the world to thrive in a globally respected institution.

Whether you’re pursuing engineering, business, social sciences, or global affairs, Notre Dame’s scholarship programs can open doors to academic excellence and lifelong opportunities.