Notre Dame and the Common App: A Love Story (or Not?)
You’re looking at Notre Dame, huh? You’ve heard the hype, seen the beautiful campus, and are probably picturing yourself in a golden dome-shaped heaven, surrounded by the smartest, most well-rounded students in the country. But hold on to your metaphorical hats, because there’s one question that keeps popping up like a pesky mosquito on a summer night: Does Notre Dame use the Common App?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding yes, but with a twist! Notre Dame embraces both the Common App and the Coalition Application. They’re like identical twins, except one’s a little more “go-with-the-flow” and the other prefers to be a bit more organized.
Think of it this way: the Common App is your chill friend who lets you apply to a bunch of colleges with one application. The Coalition Application is the friend who likes to plan ahead and be prepared for everything. Notre Dame is the cool, trendy college who doesn’t mind which application you choose—they’ll happily accept both.
So, what does this mean for you, the aspiring Fighting Irish student? Well, it means you have a choice, my friend! You can choose the application that best suits your personality and your application strategy:
- The Common App: This is the classic, tried-and-true option. It’s the most widely used application, meaning you’re likely to have already started filling it out for other colleges. It’s also known for being user-friendly, with a straightforward interface that makes applying a breeze. Think of it as the McDonald’s of college applications—familiar, reliable, and always gets the job done.
- The Coalition Application: This application is newer and is steadily gaining popularity. It offers some unique features, like a “Coalition Locker” where you can store your application materials and share them with your guidance counselor. Think of it as the Burger King of college applications—it might not be as widely recognized, but it offers a bit more customization and a chance to express yourself.
But wait, there’s more! Notre Dame has a little something extra they want you to add to either application—their Notre Dame Writing Supplement. It’s like a special side order to your application, a chance to show your unique personality and why you’re a perfect fit for the Fighting Irish family. This supplement is a vital part of your application, so take your time and craft a response that truly reflects your passion for Notre Dame.
Now, let’s talk about what you need to know to snag a spot at Notre Dame:
- GPA: You’ll need a GPA of at least 2.5, but let’s be real, you’ll need to be at the top of your class to even be considered. They’re looking for students who are academically driven and passionate about learning. Expect to be swimming in straight A’s and challenging yourself with rigorous courses like APs and IBs. If you’re not rocking a 4.0, don’t fret! There’s always room for improvement and the possibility of a compelling story to tell. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers, it’s about showing your dedication to learning.
- Standardized Tests: Notre Dame requires either the ACT or SAT with minimum scores of 19/900, respectively. However, let’s be honest, those are just the bare minimum. If you want to stand out from the pack, you’ll need to aim for scores significantly higher than those minimums. Focus on improving your test-taking skills and strategies, and don’t be afraid to take the test multiple times.
- Letters of Recommendation: Notre Dame requires one letter of evaluation from a high school teacher who knows you well and has taught you in a core academic subject. Choose a teacher who can speak to your strengths, your academic achievements, and your overall potential.
- Extracurriculars & Personal Essay: Don’t forget the extracurriculars! They’re your chance to showcase your talents, passions, and commitment to your community. You’ll also need to write a personal essay that tells your story and paints a picture of who you are beyond the numbers. This is your opportunity to be creative, showcase your personality, and make a strong case for why you belong at Notre Dame.
Remember, getting into Notre Dame is tough—it’s like trying to catch a unicorn in a rainstorm. But it’s not impossible! With hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, you can make your dream a reality.
Now, here’s the thing about Notre Dame: they’re not just looking for students with perfect grades and test scores. They’re looking for individuals who are engaged, passionate, and committed to making a difference in the world. If you’re looking for a college that will challenge you intellectually, ethically, and spiritually, Notre Dame just might be your perfect match.
So, which application will you choose? Common App or Coalition Application? It’s your call, my friend. Just remember, no matter which path you choose, make sure you present yourself in the best light possible.
One last piece of advice: Don’t be afraid to reach out to the Notre Dame admissions team if you have questions. They are a wealth of knowledge and can help guide you through the application process.
And remember, no matter how challenging the journey, never stop believing in yourself and your potential. You’ve got this!
P.S. If you need more help navigating this college application maze, or have any other questions about Notre Dame or the Common App, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at JobLoving. We’re here to help you find your dream school and make your college dreams a reality.