Notre Dame Reinstates Standardized Testing Requirement for Fall 2028 Applicants

Notre Dame announced that it will reinstate a standardized testing requirement for undergraduate applicants, effective with the 2027-28 admissions cycle for students seeking fall 2028 enrollment. Applicants will once again need to submit ACT or SAT scores.

The university said a review of its admissions data found that test scores correlate strongly with classroom performance and provide quantitative evidence of academic preparation, particularly for identifying talented applicants from less-familiar schools and underrepresented backgrounds. Micki Kidder, Notre Dame’s Vice President for Undergraduate Enrollment, said, “A test score, evaluated in full context of an applicant’s individual circumstances, is an additional measure to aid us.” Test scores remain one of dozens of factors considered, and no single variable will determine admission decisions.

Notre Dame also highlighted its continued commitment to access and affordability, including need-blind admissions, meeting full demonstrated financial need without loans, free tuition for families earning under $60,000 annually, a four-year aid guarantee, and free SAT preparation and college counseling through a partnership with Schoolhouse.world.

Click here for the news release.