University of Notre Dame

What are Notre Dame’s supplemental essay prompts?

The University of Notre Dame Writing Section consists of one required short essay question and three short-answer responses to questions you select from the options provided.

Prompt #1

(In “Academics” tab): Briefly share what draws you to the area(s) of study you listed. (100 words)

Prompt #2

Please provide a response to the following question. The word count is a maximum of 150 words. Everyone has different priorities when considering their higher education options and building their college or university list. Tell us about your “non-negotiable” factor(s) when searching for your future college home.

Prompt #3

Please choose three questions from the options below. Your response to each short-answer question should be between 50-100 words.

1. How does faith influence the decisions you make?

2. What is distinctive about your personal experiences and development, such as family support, culture, disability, personal background, or community? Why are these experiences important to you and how will you enrich the Notre Dame community?

3. Notre Dame’s undergraduate experience is characterized by a collective sense of care for every person. How do you foster service to others in your community?

4. What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you?

5. What would you fight for?