University of Notre Dame Essay Prompts 2026-27

For the 2026-27 cycle: 3 required essays.

Notre Dame accepts the Common App, so the personal statement is also part of your application. It counts once across all your Common App schools.

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.
150 words max

Choose 2 of 4

50 to 100 words

How does faith influence the decisions you make?
100 words max
What is distinctive about your personal experiences and development (eg, family support, culture, disability, personal background, community)? Why are these experiences important to you and how will you enrich the Notre Dame community?
100 words max
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?
100 words max
What would you fight for?
100 words max

Checked against official sources. Last verified August 28, 2026.

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