Information for Guidance Counselors

Main Building

We look forward each summer to meeting the many students from around the country who converge on the Notre Dame campus for Notre Dame’s Summer Scholars (formerly called Summer Experience). We are also very thankful to the many high school guidance counselors who have assisted their students in making this opportunity possible through the guidance and support they provide.

We hope the following FAQ will provide you with the information you need to assist your interested students in completing an application to Summer Scholars scheduled for June 22 – July 5, 2008. Should you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.

Joan Martel Ball
Director of Pre-College Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply to ND Summer Scholars?

Current high school sophomores and juniors may apply (those students who will be entering their junior or senior year, Fall of ‘08). In addition, students must be 16 years of age by program start.

Who is typically accepted?

Admitted students are those who have clearly demonstrated academic proficiency in both high school performance and standardized test scores. We accept the SAT, ACT, PSAT and PLAN. We do accept new test scores after an application has been submitted, but would recommend test dates that would provide a score to us by February or March 2008.

What does a completed application include?

A completed application will include the on-line application (including student essay, personal statement, extra-curricular activities and choice of two academic tracks), one letter of recommendation from a guidance counselor or teacher, an official high school transcript, standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, PSAT and/or PLAN), a completed Counselor’s Report and a $40 application fee. Please note: A high school profile is not required but is most appreciated, even if it is from the previous year’s class.

May more than one recommendation be submitted?

Yes. The application asks for one recommendation from a teacher or guidance counselor, but additional recommendations may be submitted to help support the applicant.

Will attending the ND Summer Scholars help a student gain admission to Notre Dame?

No ─ although the program has helped many students discern their interest in attending Notre Dame as well navigate their future academic goals and enhance their performance once enrolled in college.

What is the likelihood of a student getting their first choice academic track preference?

Every effort is made to place students in their first academic track choice. We ask all students to submit a secondary choice in the event their first choice track is filled. Popular tracks typically include Business, Life Science, Literature and Pre-Law. Admission to a track is based on academic abilities and expressed interest – as stated on the student essay portion of the application.

Is scholarship assistance available?

Yes. Limited scholarship assistance is available to socio-economically and ethnically under-represented accepted students. Awards are granted on the basis of financial need, academic merit, and availability. We request that interested students submit a letter with their application explaining their need.

Is it possible to apply without having taken a standardized test yet?

It is possible to be admitted to ND Summer Scholars without test scores, although this is a rare instance. We recommend that students take a standardized test (SAT, ACT, PSAT and/or PLAN) prior to the application process. If this is not possible, it is recommended that a student take a test that will be available to our office by February or March at the latest. Faxed scores from the high school guidance office are acceptable. (FAX 574-631-8964)

What is the timeline for the 2008 ND Summer Scholars?

December 1 -on-line applications are available
March 1 -applications to Summer Scholars are due (postmarked)
April 15 -decision letters will be mailed to all applicants
May 15 -All admitted students must confirm with a $250 non-refundable deposit